5 Common Poodle Health Concerns
Poodles are some of the proudest pups you’ll come across that also have a huge heart. However, there are a couple of common Poodle health concerns to keep in mind if you plan on welcoming one of these smart sweethearts into your life. Below, we’ll dive into five health considerations every Poodle owner should be aware of.
Addison’s Disease
This disease is also known as hypoadrenocorticism and is caused by underproductive adrenal glands. If you notice your otherwise active Poodle having difficulty getting through the day, it may be a telltale sign of this condition. Luckily, this condition can be treated with daily medication and/or a specialized diet.
That being said, it’s important that your four-footer is properly diagnosed if they’re showing signs of this disease. Keep an eye out for signs of stomach upset, diarrhea, lethargy, dehydration, or lack of appetite.
Bloat
Poodles have deep chests which makes them incredible athletes but at risk for developing intense bloat. Simply put, bloat occurs whenever gas is trapped within a dog’s stomach. This stops the flow of digestion and causes intense pain. Unfortunately, when left unchecked, this condition can be fatal.
If you notice your Poodle in distress or with a distended stomach, give your veterinarian or local pet emergency hospital a call immediately. As a preventative measure, try to limit running after meals and focus on feeding small amounts throughout the day to promote healthy digestion.
Epilepsy
Poodles are prone to suffering from epileptic seizures. These episodes can be incredibly jarring for both you and your dog, though they’re usually not fatal. In the event that your dog is suffering from one of these episodes, take these necessary precautions:
- Place a pillow gently under the head, keeping your hand away from the mouth
- Clear the nearby area
- Turn off any bright lights
- Stay nearby and remain calm
- Take note of how long the seizure lasts and contact your veterinarian immediately following the episode
The cause of epilepsy isn’t always easy to pin down, so your veterinarian will have to run through a variety of diagnostic tests to determine the root cause. In terms of preventative care, feed your Poodle a balanced diet, provide plenty of exercise opportunities, and stay up to date on your flea/tick preventatives as well as vaccinations.
Thyroid Issues
Poodles are prone to developing a wide range of thyroid issues. One of these conditions is known as hyperthyroidism, which is caused by the underproduction of the thyroid hormone, thyroxine. This hormone is important for your dog’s metabolism and can lead to a variety of unpleasant symptoms for your pooch.
Your poodle may experience hair loss, irregular heat cycles, lethargy, loss of appetite, or excessive hunger. Thankfully, this condition can be treated with prescription medication. If you notice any of these symptoms in your pooch, be sure to consult your veterinarian.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
This condition, otherwise known as PRA, refers to a set of conditions relating to the retina at the back of the eye. The rod cells in the retina slowly lose function over time, limiting low light vision, and depth perception. Unfortunately, this condition can eventually lead to blindness in the affected eyes.
This condition is genetic, though it’s more common in toy and miniature Poodles. While PRA can’t always be detected by DNA testing, it’s important to choose a reputable breeder when picking up your Poodle. Responsible breeders should have knowledge of the parents’ health history and pedigree which can help alleviate any cause for concern.
There’s no denying that Poodles are playful, intelligent dogs that are bound to steal your heart. As responsible Poodle parents, it’s important to be aware of these common health concerns to give your canine the care he deserves. Enjoy spending time with these caring and distinguished dogs!
