Poolkies are small dogs with a typically soft, wavy to curly coat that can vary in color.

Small, typically ranging from 8 to 14 inches in height.

Generally between 8 and 15 pounds.

Can be wavy or curly, inheriting traits from both Poodle and Silky Terrier parents.

Common colors include white, cream, gray, black, and combinations thereof.

Features a moderately rounded head with expressive, dark eyes.

Often carried gaily, sometimes docked depending on breeder practices, though docking is becoming less common.

Poolkies are known for their affectionate, playful, and intelligent nature, making them wonderful companions.

Form strong bonds with their families and enjoy close interaction.

Possess a lively and energetic spirit, enjoying games and playtime.

Highly trainable due to their Poodle heritage.

Generally friendly with people and other animals, especially when socialized early.

Can be watchful and may bark to alert their owners to strangers, though not excessively yappy.

Poolkies are best suited for individuals or families who can provide them with companionship, regular grooming, and moderate exercise.

Playful and entertaining.

Needs consistent socialization.

The ideal owner for a Poolky is someone who can dedicate time to grooming, training, and providing companionship, and who appreciates a small, affectionate, and intelligent dog.

Poolky care involves regular grooming to maintain their coat, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment.

Requires regular brushing (several times a week) to prevent matting, and professional grooming every few months.

Bathe as needed, usually every few weeks or when dirty.

Feed a high-quality, small-breed dog food appropriate for their age and activity level.

Adaptable to various living situations, including apartments, as long as their exercise needs are met.

Regular teeth brushing is important to prevent dental disease, common in small breeds.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth.

Poolkies are relatively easy to train thanks to their intelligence, and they require moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Poolkies respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise. Their intelligence, inherited from the Poodle side, makes them quick learners. However, early socialization and consistent training are crucial to prevent the development of small dog syndrome.

Despite their small size, Poolkies have moderate energy levels. Daily walks, play sessions in a yard or indoors, and interactive toys are usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs. Mental stimulation, through training or puzzle toys, is also important.

Maintain a consistent training routine to reinforce good behavior.

Use treats, praise, and play as rewards.

Expose your Poolky to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Provide puzzle toys and engage in training activities to keep their minds active.

Poolkies are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location.

A group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to deteriorate, leading to blindness.

Small breeds are prone to dental problems, including tartar buildup and gum disease.

A condition affecting the hip joint, leading to degeneration of the femur head.

The Poolky's history is relatively recent, as is the case with many designer crossbreeds. The goal of breeding was likely to combine the desirable traits of both parent breeds: the Poodle's intelligence and hypoallergenic coat, and the Silky Terrier's affectionate nature and smaller size. While not recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC, the Poolky is recognized by some designer breed registries. The breed's popularity has grown primarily in the last two decades, driven by the demand for small, companionable dogs with low-shedding characteristics.

While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Poolkies are often considered a good choice for allergy sufferers due to their low-shedding Poodle heritage. However, individual reactions can vary.

Poolkies need moderate exercise, including daily walks and playtime. About 30-60 minutes of activity per day is usually sufficient.

Yes, Poolkies are generally good with children, especially when raised with them and properly socialized. However, supervision is always recommended with small dogs and young children.

Poolkies are not excessively yappy, but they may bark to alert their owners to strangers or unusual situations.

Brush your Poolky several times a week to prevent matting, and consider professional grooming every few months.

The average lifespan of a Poolky is typically 12-15 years.

Yes, Poolkies are intelligent and generally easy to train using positive reinforcement methods.

Yes, Poolkies can adapt well to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met.

Feed your Poolky a high-quality, small-breed dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level.

You can find Poolkies through reputable breeders or rescue organizations specializing in Poodle or Silky Terrier mixes. Avoid puppy mills and pet stores.