Klein and Moyen Poodles
HISTORY OF THE MOYEN POODLE:
The term "Moyen" in French denotes the fourth size category of Poodles in France, while the rest of Europe commonly refers to them as "Kleins." Positioned between the Miniature and Standard Poodle sizes, the Moyen (Klein) is distinctively recognized as a separate and established breed size in Europe, rather than an outcome of crossing the two aforementioned sizes. Despite being prevalent in the U.S., Moyens (Kleins) are typically placed in pet homes due to their smaller stature, which impedes their competitive standing against the larger Standard Poodles in the AKC ring. However, they find success in the UKC conformation venue, with many achieving champion status.
Generally falling within the 15-20 inch range, akin to a small Standard Poodle, Moyens are aptly named, as "Moyen" translates to medium in French, while "Klein" signifies small or mini in German. Both terms, Moyen and Klein, are commonly used to refer to this intermediary Poodle size, slightly smaller than the original-sized Poodle. In the U.S., Moyens participate in the Non-Sporting Class, while in the UKC ring, they are classified within the Gun Dog Group.
DESCRIPTION:
In adherence to dog show standards, the body of the dog is crafted to project a square appearance, mirroring its height at the withers. The skull exhibits a moderate roundness with a subtle yet distinct stop, accompanied by a lengthy, straight muzzle. The eyes, dark and oval-shaped, are set somewhat apart and can be either black or brown. Ears, hanging closely to the head, are long and flat. Both front and back legs maintain proportionality with the dog's size, contributing to a level topline. The tail, when present, is set high and may undergo partial docking for aesthetic balance. Dewclaws may be removed.
The oval-shaped feet, characterized by small size and arched toes, support the overall structure. The coat of the dog, which can be either curly or corded, manifests in a spectrum of colors. For details on various Poodle clips, refer to grooming guidelines.
TEMPERMANT:
The Klein is truly an intelligent and delightful companion, blessed with the ability to undergo high-level training and a genuine eagerness to please its handler. Its comical and clever nature often makes it a star in the circus, showcasing not just its skills but also its endearing personality. Remember, the more intelligent a dog, the more it craves mental stimulation, so incorporating them into family life instead of confining them to a kennel is key.
To bring out the best in your Klein, ensure they receive the right type and amount of exercise, preventing them from becoming overly high-strung. Avoiding Small Dog Syndrome is crucial, as it helps maintain a balanced demeanor, steering clear of potential sensitivity or nervousness, particularly around children and strangers. Socializing your Klein contributes to a well-behaved and reliable companion.
Though great watchdogs, Kleins usually express their alertness without unnecessary aggression. Any excessive barking can be managed through clear human-to-canine communication and setting up well-defined rules. Poodles, including the Klein, tend to be friendly not only with other dogs but also with non-canine pets.
AVERAGE HEIGHT/ WEIGHT/ LIFE EXPECTANCY
Falls in between the Miniature and Standard Poodle size. Not an official AKC size variation, however has become popular outside the USA.
Height: 15 - 20 inches (38 - 50 cm)
Weight: 20 - 30 pounds (9 - 13 kg)
Life expectancy about 12-15 years
GROOMING
Poodles require regular maintenance to ensure their well-being. It's important to bathe them regularly and trim their coat every six to eight weeks. Regular ear cleaning is necessary to prevent wax, mites, or infections, and attention should be given to removing hairs growing inside the ear canal. Additionally, dental care is crucial, with teeth requiring regular scaling.
Due to their non-shedding coat, poodles benefit from regular clipping. A common choice for pet owners is the "pet clip," "puppy clip," or "lamb clip," resulting in a short, even coat. For those engaged in dog shows, popular clips include the English saddle and the Continental clip, each with its distinctive features.
Various clip styles cater to different preferences, such as the modified continental clip, town and country clip, kennel or utility clip, summer clip, and the Miami or bikini clip. Poodles are an ideal choice for allergy sufferers as they shed minimal to no hair.
Doodles Explained
Which "Doodle" should I get?
How do you know which doodle generation to get. We recommend thinking about what type of coat you want.
- If a curlier, less shedding coat is very important to you, go with one of the backcrossed generations.
- If you like the easier to maintain wavy coat that may shed a little, look for an F1 Doodle.
- Usually F2, F1b, and Multigeneration doodles are the best for everyone and have the most predictable traits.
It’s worth remembering your decision on which puppy is right for you shouldn’t only be based off of the generation.
Not every puppy will have equal genetic traits from the parents. Some might have more Poodle traits or and some might have more doodle traits.
Be sure to look over each puppy carefully and ask us what they expect the coat to turn out like in the future.
Doodle Generations Explained
The doodle generations are fairly straight forward though can sound confusing.
A F1 is a first generation doodle. A purebred Bernese Mountain Dog or Golden Retriever crossed with a poodle.
F2 would be a F1 crossed with a F1.
F3 would be a F2 with a F2.
Traits and Backcrosses
F1
This first generation is a half and half mix of the parent breeds.
These will be lower shedding than the shedding parent, but can still shed a little.
Coat might be wavy, loose curls, or tight curls.
They may have the straight wavy coat that a lot of doodle families love. These dogs benefit the most from Hybrid Vigor.
F1b
The F1b is one of our favorites because it gives the best chance of lower shedding while still keeping that cute wavy coat. They are 75% Poodle they may tend to have more waves or curls than the F1.
F2b and F1 bred to an F1b
These dogs are another one of our favorites and they tend to have better luck with less shedding and can have a bit more of the shedding dog (golden or bernese) look than the F1b alone. They are 5/8 Poodle and 3/8 of the shedding dog – which is 1/8 less Poodle and 1/8 more shedding dog than an F1B.
What is the "B"
The “B” in the title of the doodle is what can be more confusing.
F1 Doodles have 50% of each purebred dog so they have the potential to shed a little. We often breed an F1 back to a Poodle to help reduce shedding. The puppy from that liter is called an F1b.
The “b” represents a backcross. Meaning it has been bred back to a parent breed, either Poodle or other purebred dog. So an example would be a puppy that is 75% Poodle and 25% shedding dog.
You can breed a F1b to a Poodle to get an F1bb puppy.
There are inconsistencies in the terms when you get further into the generations. You would think a F2b would be an F2 bred back to a parent breed, but some take an F1 crossed with an F1b and call it F2b.
By the time you get to the F3 generations with backcrosses, breeders call it a “Multigenerational” or “Multigen” doodle.
F3s can be a cross of any of the following:
F1B x F1B; F1B x F2B; F2 x F2; F2B x F2B; and so on.