The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes the Toy Poodle as follows:

General Appearance:

• The Toy Poodle is an elegant, lively, and intelligent dog with a distinctive square build.

• They carry themselves with pride, showcasing a regal demeanor and dignified presence.

• Known for their versatility, they are adaptable and highly trainable.

Size:

• The Toy Poodle is the smallest of the three Poodle varieties.

• They must not exceed 10 inches in height at the shoulder. (I try my best to ensure that this is the case, however it does happen where the puppy grows taller than expected)

• Weight typically ranges between 4 to 8 pounds, though there may be variations.

Coat and Color:

• The coat is one of the breed's most recognizable features, being curly, dense, and hypoallergenic.

• Acceptable coat colors include white, black, apricot, cream, red, silver, blue, gray, and brown, among others. (see the chart below)

• Solid-colored coats are ideal, and markings are generally not recognized in AKC conformation standards.

Temperament:

• Toy Poodles are intelligent, eager to please, and highly trainable, making them excellent companions.

• They are known for their cheerful, loving nature and bond closely with their families.

• Despite their size, they have a lively and playful spirit.

Gait:

• The gait is light, springy, and effortless, with good reach and drive.

Head and Expression:

• The head is moderately rounded with a slight stop.

• Eyes are dark, oval, and full of alertness and intelligence.

• Ears are long, hanging close to the head, and set at or slightly below eye level.

Body:

• The body is compact and squarely built, with equal length from the withers to the ground and the withers to the tail.

• The chest is deep with well-sprung ribs.

Tail:

• Traditionally, the tail is docked to a length that complements the dog’s overall balance, carried up but not curled over the back.

Purpose:

• Originally bred as water retrievers, Poodles are versatile dogs excelling in various activities, from companionship to agility and obedience competitions.