Consider These 28 Questions Before Getting a Moyen Poodle

Thinking about bringing a Moyen Poodle into your life? Let’s break it down simply — from someone who’s spent years around dogs and knows what it’s like to care for one every single day.

What makes a Moyen Poodle different?

First off, “Moyen” means “medium” in French, and that’s exactly what this poodle is — a perfect in-between size. Not as big as a Standard Poodle and not as tiny as a Toy. They usually stand 15–20 inches tall and weigh 20–35 pounds. This makes them a great fit for someone who wants a manageable size dog with all the brains and beauty of a standard poodle.

Why we love them

Moyen Poodles are smart, playful, affectionate, and full of personality. They love being around people, especially their family, and they’re happiest when they’re part of the action — playing fetch, going on walks, or just hanging out. But don’t let that cute curly face fool you — these dogs need exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, they can get bored, and bored poodles can be a handful.

Good for first-time dog owners? Yes — if you’re ready to commit to grooming and regular exercise. They’re easy to train, love learning, and want to please. But this isn’t a low-maintenance breed. That gorgeous coat? It needs daily brushing to avoid matting, and regular trims. So if brushing your dog becomes a chore, this might not be the breed for you.

Family-friendly? You bet.

Moyen Poodles are gentle and patient with kids, even little ones. They’re playful too, so they’ll happily join in on backyard games. They usually get along well with other pets, especially if they’re socialized early — though they might be a bit shy around new people or dogs at first.

Living situation — apartment or house?

They can definitely live in an apartment, as long as they get their daily walks and playtime. They’re not yappy dogs, but they will bark if they’re bored or left alone too long. Moyen Poodles aren’t fans of being home alone all day. They’re people-dogs and can develop separation anxiety if left for long stretches.

Health and lifespan

Moyen Poodles are generally healthy and live around 12–15 years. Like any breed, they have some genetic predispositions — things like progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, and joint issues. Regular vet checkups and buying from a responsible breeder who does health testing is key.

Hypoallergenic? Pretty close.

While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Moyen Poodles come close. They don’t shed much, produce less dander, and have a water-resistant coat that traps loose hair instead of letting it float around your house. We’ve seen plenty of allergy sufferers do well with this breed — but always spend time with a poodle first to see how you react.

What about cost?

In the UK, a Moyen Poodle pup might run you upwards of £1,400, and they’re not super common, so you might be on a breeder’s waiting list. After that, expect about £80/month for food, insurance, and basic care.

So, is the Moyen Poodle right for you?

If you’re looking for a smart, loving, non-shedding dog who enjoys family life, learns quickly, and doesn’t take up your entire couch, the Moyen Poodle could be a great fit. Just be ready to brush that coat, keep them active, and make them part of your daily life — because that’s what they really want: to be with you.

In our experience, Moyen Poodles are joyful, loyal companions with a silly side and a heart full of love. They’re not just beautiful dogs — they’re true family members.