Moyen vs. Standard Poodle: Which One Should I Choose? (With Pictures)

The main difference between a Standard Poodle and a Moyen Poodle is the size. “Moyen” means “medium” in France, where this fourth size was created. You may also hear this type of Poodle called “Klein,” the German name.

This fourth type of Poodle is only found in Europe. In the United States, there are only three kinds of Poodle typically available, including the Standard Poodle.

While the Standard Poodle is over 15 inches tall, the Moyen Poodle is slightly smaller at 10–15 inches. Beyond that, these two breeds are the same. The Moyen Poodle is a step between the Standard Poodle and the Miniature Poodle.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Moyen Poodle Overview

Moyen Poodles are counted as “medium” Poodles. However, they are not recognized by all kennel clubs and are considered a “newer” size. Therefore, you won’t find them available everywhere, especially in the United States.

Size

The Moyen Poodle is usually about 15–20 inches in Europe. According to the American Kennel Club, any Poodle over 15” is considered a Standard Poodle. Therefore, in America, the Moyen Poodle is just a smaller Standard Poodle.

Usually, these Poodles result from a mixture between a Standard Poodle and a Miniature Poodle. Therefore, their size can vary a lot. Some are much smaller, while others are much bigger. One litter can have Miniature, Moyen, and Standard Poodles.

Origins

This type of Poodle is newer, and the result of Miniature Poodles begin bred with Standard Poodle. Therefore, they are still 100% Poodle—just a slightly different size. They are an “inter variety” breed.

Usually, it takes about four generations of these Poodles breeding before they are counted as “Moyen” Poodles and produce only Moyen-sized puppies. Before then, their size can vary, so you never know what size Poodle you might get from a litter.

Care

The care of these dogs is very similar to a Standard Poodle. However, because they are smaller, they often require less exercise and grooming. There just isn’t as much of them to brush. Grooming costs will usually be cheaper, as their smaller size makes them faster to groom.

They will require the same amount of mental stimulation, though. These dogs are often just as intelligent as Standard Poodles.

Suitable For:

These dogs are slightly smaller than the Standard Poodle so they do well in smaller spaces. However, they aren’t exactly apartment dogs, either. Of course, they also require quite a big commitment, as they have the same needs as a Standard Poodle.

Standard Poodle Overview

The standard Poodle is a large working dog that initially came from France or Germany (there are some arguments about the exact origin). There are four main types of Poodles. However, the Standard Poodle is the largest.

These dogs are recognized worldwide and are likely the first type of Poodle that ever existed.

Size

The main difference between this Poodle and others is its large size. This type of Poodle can be up to 24 inches tall, though they are always over 18 inches. These dogs can weigh between 44–71 pounds. Therefore, they easily count as large dogs.

Origin

These dogs originated in medieval Germany, most likely. Back then, clear records of dog breeds did not exist. Therefore, we do not know precisely where this breed originated or how it was created. Therefore, there are many different arguments for where this breed came from (with the French Kennel Club claiming that it came from France).

However, in all likelihood, this breed came from Germany. They were likely the country’s waterdog, similar to other countries’ waterdogs that came into being during the medieval era, as well. Their major job was to retrieve ducks and other game from the water.

Care

The Standard Poodle is quite large. These dogs are very active, as they were working dogs originally. As they were made to swim all day, they had a lot of energy. Therefore, you’ll need to exercise them for hours a day as a companion dog. Poodles that aren’t exercised can easily become bored, hyperactive, and troublemakers.

Furthermore, these dogs also have a high level of grooming. You’ll need to get them professionally groomed. How much brushing is required depends on the cut you choose, but you should at least plan to brush them multiple times a week.

As intelligent dogs, Poodles require a lot of mental stimulation, too. These dogs require daily training, puzzle toys, or other stimulation to remain happy.

Suitable For:

The Standard Poodle is suitable for a range of different pet owners. However, you need to understand how much work they require before adopting one. Furthermore, we highly recommend having lots of room for these dogs, as they are quite large.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

The main difference between these two breeds is their size and availability. Standard Poodles are quite large and very common. They were the first breed of Poodle around, so they are quite popular throughout the world. However, they are so large that they require quite a bit of space to thrive. They are not apartment dogs for this reason.

On the other hand, Moyen Poodles are slightly smaller than Standard Poodles. However, they are mostly only found in Europe, where this size is officially recognized. In the United States, this breed technically falls into the Standard Poodle category.

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Featured Image Credit: (L) Lisjatina, Shutterstock | (R) Alberto Duran Photography, Shutterstock