Did you know that officially classifying poodles works a little differently than classifying other dog breeds? This dog breed, though always remaining one breed, comes in three distinct sizes.
The American Kennel Club recognizes the Toy, Miniature, and Standard poodles in America. However, there is a fourth size that is already recognized in Europe and growing popular in the US, despite no official recognition.
This size is known as the Moyen poodle. Let’s find out all about it here!
What Is a Moyen Poodle?
Poodles are unique in that they are one breed that comes in different sizes. In the US, these sizes are as follows:
- Toy Poodles: Under 10” weighing between 4 - 6 pounds
- Miniature Poodles: Between 10” and 15” weighing between 10 - 14 pounds
- Standard Poodles: Standing 16” and up and weighing 15 pounds or more
However, in France and other places in Europe, there is a fourth classification. European organizations classify a Standard poodle at 21” and up, weighing 35 pounds or more. That leaves a medium-sized poodle standing between 16” and 20” tall and weighing about 15-30 pounds.
This size has been dubbed the Moyen poodle, which is the French word for “medium.” In some places, this type of poodle is also called a Klein poodle, which is the German word for “small.”
Like all poodles, regardless of their size, the Moyen poodle is 100% poodle. You can get the size by crossing a Standard poodle with a Miniature one, but it takes a bit of work to get there.
The puppies produced by this pairing will produce puppies of varying sizes. It takes about 4 generations for the sizing to even out. Then you can breed two Moyen poodles and expect to get a litter of Moyen poodle puppies.
Physical Characteristics of the Moyen Poodle
Moyen poodles are sturdily built, with a rectangular body shape. They are small enough to make the perfect lapdog, yet large enough (and adventurous enough) to go hiking or take part in other physical activities. They love to go swimming, play fetch, and run as fast as their little legs can take them.
Like other poodles, they have either a curly or corded coat that grows continually with little shedding. Thus, they require haircuts to keep their hair neat, but the plus side is you won’t have as much dog hair spread all over your house.
Moyen Poodles come in all the same colors and patterns as Standard and Miniature Poodles, including black, white, cream, silver, gray, brown, apricot, and red.
Grooming
Moyen poodles require regular grooming to maintain their coats and keep them looking their best. The frequency of grooming will depend on the type of coat your dog has.
Curly-coated Moyen poodles will need to be brushed and combed several times a week to prevent mats and tangles from forming. Corded Moyen poodles will need to be brushed daily to prevent their cords from matting. Both types of coats will need to be trimmed or clipped every few months by a professional groomer.
In addition to regular grooming, Moyen Poodles will also need to have their nails trimmed on a monthly basis. It is also important to brush your dog’s teeth regularly to prevent dental problems.
Temperament
Moyen poodles are highly intelligent and easily trained. They are active and playful, but not hyperactive. With their pleasant temperaments, they make great family pets and do well with children.
As with all dogs, they should be socialized early on, but they are naturally friendly and will generally be accepting of visitors. Even so, they are also good watchdogs, as they will bark to alert you to strangers.
Because of their intelligence and trainability, Standard poodles are often used as service dogs. Moyen poodles are also a great service dog option with all the intelligence of a Standard poodle in a more conveniently-sized package.
Training
Start training your Moyen poodle early. Like all dogs, the earlier you start training, the better. This breed is highly intelligent and will learn quickly, so it’s important to start teaching them good habits from the beginning.
Be consistent with your training sessions. Consistency is key when training any dog, but it’s especially important with the Moyen poodle. They are quick learners, but they can also be just as quick to forget what they’ve learned if you’re not consistent with your commands and expectations.
Positive reinforcement training methods tend to work better with all dogs as opposed to punishment. However, this is especially so with Moyen poodles and their sensitive personalities. Be sure to give them plenty of praise and treats when they do something right, and they’ll be more likely to repeat the behavior.
Above all, be patient. Training a Moyen poodle, or any dog for that matter, can be challenging at times. But patience is key. They are smart dogs that want to please their owners, so if you keep at it, they will eventually get the hang of whatever it is you’re trying to teach them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moyen Poodles
Interest in the Moyen poodle is growing as people become more aware of this unique size. Are you considering adding a Moyen poodle to your family? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions that may be helpful to know.
What's the difference between a Moyen Poodle and a Standard Poodle?
The biggest difference between Moyen Poodles and Standard Poodles is size. Moyen Poodles are usually between 15 and 20 inches tall at the shoulder, while Standard Poodles can be up to 27 inches tall. Moyen Poodles also tend to have a bit more energy than Standard Poodles.
Are Moyen Poodles good family dogs?
Yes, Moyen Poodles make great family dogs. They're intelligent, playful, and loving, and they get along well with children and other pets. Like other poodles, their fur is hypoallergenic and they basically don’t shed, which is great for families with allergies.
Their medium size makes them neither too big nor too small. They fit perfectly in the car and can easily accompany you on all your adventures without the challenges of a large dog.
Do Moyen Poodles require a lot of exercise?
Moyen poodles need moderate exercise and they're content with a daily walk or play session in the yard. Toy poodles tend to have a reputation for hyperactivity, but Moyen poodles are calmer.
Of course, they still need to stay active to stay healthy and insufficient exercise can lead to hyperactivity. But they don’t need a ton of exercise to remain calm.
Considering Adding a Moyen Poodle to Your Family?
All poodles make great family pets. As loyal, trainable, and low-maintenance dogs, poodles have been highly popular among dog owners for years. And it's no wonder why--with their intelligence, charming personalities, and good looks, they make wonderful companions for people of all ages.
The Moyen poodle is a great size that bridges the gap between the tiny Toy versions and the larger Standard version, giving dog owners the perfect medium-sized option. Adding this delightful pet to your family means years of loyal, loving companionship.
Visit The Off Leash blog at TryFi.com for more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips.
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