A miniaturized cousin of the Standard Poodle developed in 18th-century France as a lap companion, the Toy Poodle keeps the breed's famous intelligence in a 4–6 kg package. In China the curly version is universally known as 'Teddy' and has dominated urban pet ownership for a decade. They live 14–16 years, are nearly non-shedding, and learn tricks faster than you can name them — but need professional grooming every 4–6 weeks and dislike being left alone.
