Single Miniature Poodle Pup Litter

Question
Hello Kim,

Do you have any information/statistics on single miniature poodle litters ... health, life span, etc.?  My wife and are considering a purchase of a miniature poodle puppy - The only thing that I am wondering about is that the puppy was a single birth ... Is that unusual or what?  What should we be looking for in the male pup?  We bought our previous dog "Shadow", who we loved her for 15 years, from this breeder so we trust her and know she would only sell us a "good dog"...

A single pup litter?  Please, if you have any comments they would be appreciated.  Thank you.


Answer
Hello Dan,
There should be no problems with your puppy.  Though rare, actually he would have had it better in the womb because he had no competition for food or nutrition.  He would have had the chance to grow unhindered by his siblings.  

Miniature Poodles tend to live about 15 years or so, his health will be determined by his parents and the breeder.  The genetic health of the parents should be discussed with the breeder and you should get to see the parents if she has them on site.    
You will want to see a happy and energetic puppy that will come up to you with a wagging tail.  Try playing with him and see if he will play back, fetch a toy and interact with curiosity when shown something new.  You want clear eyes and clear nose.  

Sorry it took so long to get back to you.  If you have other questions for me, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim