A miniature is defined by the AKC as a poodle over 10 inches high at the shoulder (and smaller than a standard poodle).  It has nothing to do with weight.  All of our miniatures are under 15 inches at the shoulder and under 14 lbs. 

We define miniatures as poodles weighing between 10 and 15 lbs.  These are great yard dogs, and dogs for people who love to play with their dogs.  They are sturdy and children safe.

Lillie, on left, and the Sisters, right, are miniature poodles.

The majority of the dogs we raise fit into this group.  This is not a standard poodle definition, but it is helpful for customers looking for the right dog.  We define this size as over 10 inches at the shoulder, and weighing between 7 and 10 lbs. 

These are perfect family dogs that are safe with small children.   Several breeders call these dogs toy poodles, but they are not as they exceed 10 inches in height.

Peaches, left, and Ojiboo, right,  are small miniatures.

Everything below 10 inches at the shoulder is a toy.  They can range in weight from 2 to 8 lbs.  These are small dogs that are easily terrorized by small children.  They can develop behavioral problems if mistreated.  Not recommended for children under 9 years of age.  However, they are perfect for adults living in apartments or those who want a little lap dog.

The AKC has standards by which they define a poodle.  Most poodles do not meet these standards.  One way to get a toy poodle is to have one with very short legs, but the dog may weight 9 lbs.  We raise poodles for pets, so do not try to get long legs.  Some people prefer the shorts legs on their poodles, some long.  Always ask the breeder about this.

Zelda in the picture at the top of the page is a toy poodle.  Deidre in the picture below would be classified as a toy because she is less then 10 inches, but she weighs close to 10 lbs.  O'Keefe  on the right is a toy poodle (in her winter coat).

There is no such thing as a teacup poodle.  It seems that every breeder has his/her own definition of what a teacup is.  I tend to think of them as dogs less than 4 lbs at maturity.  We occasionally sell a teacup poodle, but do not make a effort to breed for them.  These small dogs can have health issues that larger dogs tend to get over easily.  They are definitely too small for small children.  Be aware that teacups are often the runts of the litter.  The small size may be caused by poor nutrition rather than genetics.  This may account for the health problems of these little dogs.
 

Then there is the pocket poodle, 2 to 3 lbs at maturity.  These little guys can be a challenge, but some do very well and live long lives.  We have never raised one this small.  They often require C sections to have puppies.

Winterberry Farms
    202 Lillie Patrick Rd.
    Gay, GA  30218
 (678) 836-6315 Cell
in case no answer use
   (706) 538-1003 company phone
   (706) 538-6005 Fax   
email  pups@WF-Poodle.com