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Poodle Health - Daily

Overview

For a dog to simply survive, they must have food, water and most shelter. In order for a dog to be happy and healthy, they need so much more. What type of every day care does a Poodle need?

Food - The type of food that you feed your Poodle has a direct connection to your pet's health. It is so easy to grab a bulk bag of dog food...but so detrimental to your dog's health. Offering the right food can prevent so many health issues...and extend your Poodle's life
Exercise - Too much exercise can cause bloat in Standard Poodles and Luxation issues with the Toy or Miniature if done at too young an age. However, a proper exercise routine is vital to good health.
Companionship - For a Poodle to be healthy, this includes mental health as well. To be content, a Poodle needs a loving family who offers attention and care.
Dental care - Too many owners overlook the importance of proper canine dental care. Infection of the teeth and/or gums can cause serious issues.
Regular Vet checks - While it is important to offer a healthy environment at home, routine checkups are vital - never just bring your Poodle to the vet when they are ill - be sure to keep those regular appointments
A safe home - Your Poodle is like a child and it is up to an owner to provide a warm, safe environment
Worm & tick prevention - It is such a shame when a dog owner doesn't believe that their dog

A Healthy Poodle is a Happy Poodle!

is at risk for heartworms or other parasites and does not use any prevention treatments. Heartworms, fleas and ticks must be kept at bay.

Your dog depends on you to supply all of the elements that blend together to create a safe, healthy existence. Let's look at some other aspects of daily health...and how to spot any issues early....as early detection is the best method of a fast and successful recovery.

Daily Check List

While the symptoms of health issues are seemingly endless, there are certain basic elements that an owner can take note of that will tell you if something is not quite right. It is suggested to take note of the following each day as part of your normal routine (such as before or after grooming) or most certainly if you suspect that your Poodle may not be feeling well.

Temperature: Changes in body temperature point to a health issue. If exposed to outside elements, a Poodle can certainly become ill...either with hypothermia or heat stroke. Also, a change in body temperature can point to an infection or other health issues. A Poodle will always have a normal temperature will be between 101 F (38.33 C) and 102.5 ( 39.17 C). If you suspect a fever, the temperature should be taken with a rectal thermometer, placed for 2 minutes. Please remember that feeling your dog's forehead or any other part of the body is not reliable.

Eyes: The eyes of a dog are quite telling. A slight, clear, watery discharge is normal. Any other type of discharge is not. Therefore, if your Poodle has a thick, colored or excessive discharge, this is reason to bring him or her to the veterinarian.This could be a sign of anything from allergies, a small cut to the eye or other health issues. If the eyes themselves are bloodshot or have a cloudy film, this is also reason to be concerned and bring your Poodle for a checkup.

Swelling: Any type of swelling is not normal. Males can have swelling in the testicles, females in the mammary tissue and both genders can have swelling just about anywhere. This points to an injury or a health issue and must be checked out.

The nose: Many Poodles have a very slight, clear, watery discharge from their nose that is not often noticed by owners, as they will quickly lick it before it can be seen; this is normal. However, any thick, colored or excessive nasal discharge is not normal. In addition, an older Poodle can develop crust and/or cracks in the nose and this should be treated. It is normal for a dog to possibly have a slight color change that occurs slowly over the years. Any bumps or quick discoloring should be checked out.

The coat - One sign of a healthy Poodle is a healthy, soft, shiny coat. Any dulling or drying is a possible sign of a canine health issue.

Ears - Odor coming from your dog's ears is a strong signal that something is wrong. Whether it is ear mites or a bacterial infection causes by excess hair and a damp environment, this should not be ignored.

Breathing - It is normal for a dog to pant when exercising...and dogs also pant to calm themselves down. However, excessive panting while at rest is not normal. Bad breath can also be a sign of something that is wrong, whether it is a piece of food or treat caught between teeth or something more serious, a visit with the vet is in order.

First Aide

Providing everyday health care for your Poodle also involves being ready for any emergencies or accidents. If your Poodle is injured, you will want to take your dog to the veterinarian right away, however there may be times when treatment can be done at home...or your Poodle should be stabilized to a certain degree before you rush off to the vet.

Therefore, it is best to keep a canine first aide kit at home, where all the items that you may need are in 1 certain place, ready for any unexpected needed response. In this kit, an owner should have:

Karo syrup - For any puppy under 4 months old, to stabilize hypoglycemia
Hydrogen Peroxide - To clean small cuts - deep cuts should be treated at the vet clinic or animal hospital
Bandages - To cover a small cut
Benedryl - To mix into your dog's water in case of an unexpected allergic reaction
Tweezers - To take out slivers or ticks
An old credit card - To take out bee stingers
A sterile needle - To take out tick heads or very small pieces of a sliver
A Thermometer - To check for heat stroke or other illness

Personal Advice

Wouldn't it be nice if every time you had a Poodle question, you could ask a Poodle Expert and receive a direct, personal answer? YOU CAN ! We are here to help all Poodle owners with any & all issues. Click here to learn more.