Miniature poodles, like all other breeds, can have health and temperament issues. Finding a good miniature poodle puppy takes time and patience. A good breeder will never sell to a pet store and usually does not list in local papers. But when you remember that you may have this puppy for the next 14 to 18 years, it is worth doing it right. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) points out that getting a poorly bred puppy can be both financially and emotionally costly.
Instructions
1. Talk with everyone in your family about what you want from this puppy. Some considerations are whether you want to show and maybe breed it, if it is just a family pet or if you want to do obedience or other competitions. Decide if you have someone home most of the time to housebreak a young puppy or or if you need an older puppy that is already housebroken. Decide if you want a registered dog or if a rescue would fit your family.
2. Buy a book on the poodle breed or visit the American Kennel Club's website to learn about the poodle standard and health issues. Understanding the breed will help you avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders who may try to sell "teacup" or extra-small miniatures or pups from litters with no health testing, which may result in a puppy with major health issues.
3. Contact the Poodle Club of America (PCA) for breeder referrals and for rescue groups. Make a list of the breeders and their phone numbers and contact the rescue organization for any puppies that might fit your need.
4. Make a list of references such as your veterinarian, pet sitter or boarding kennels you have used and any past breeders you bought from. The HSUS warns potential buyers that a good breeder is not going to let you have a puppy just because you have the money. Good breeders will want general and veterinary references, proof you own your house or that your landlord will allow you to have a dog, and information about how you have cared for past pets.
5. Give your veterinarian and professional references a written signed letter giving them permission to give out reference information. If you rent, get a signed letter from your landlord stating you can have a dog.
6. Call the breeders and rescue homes on your list. Discuss their contract conditions, costs, and health testing and guarantees. With rescues, ask why the puppy was turned into rescue and about any behavior issues. If the breeder does not have a puppy available, ask for referrals to other breeders and also contact them. If no puppies are available immediately, which is common, ask to be put on their waiting list.
7. Place a deposit or pay for the puppy you decide on if it is available.
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