Despite the fact that they’re smaller than other mixed-breed dogs, Toy Poodles are not immune to health problems. They can develop Cushing’s disease, Addison’s disease, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Luckily, these conditions are much less common in this breed than in other dog breeds.
Less susceptible to health issues than mixed breed dogs
Toy poodles are less prone to health problems than mixed breed dogs, but this does not mean that they are completely immune to health problems. Like other dog breeds, Poodles are susceptible to heart disease and other common health conditions based on their genetic make-up. But there are some breeds that are less prone to these problems than others, such as the Labradoodle, the French bulldog, the Standard Poodle, and the Pug.
One condition affecting Poodles is progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). This disease is a genetic disorder that affects the retina and can cause blindness. Although not all breeds of Poodles are affected by PRA, the Toy Poodle and Miniature Poodles are less likely to develop the disease than mixed breeds.
Other health problems that can affect Poodles include hip dysplasia. This condition is a genetic disorder, and symptoms include a dislocated ball and incorrectly formed socket. Treatment is usually a combination of medication and bed rest. While medications can often help in minor cases, surgery is required for more severe cases.
Cushing’s disease
Cushing’s disease in toy pooches is a common condition that can be difficult to detect. There are several tests available to diagnose this disease, and some are considered more sensitive than others. For instance, a urine specific gravity of less than 1.025 is indicative of Cushing’s disease. However, dogs with a specific gravity greater than 1.025 do not necessarily have Cushing’s disease. A urine specific gravity test is one of the safest and most accurate ways to diagnose this disease. It is also a good idea to have your dog retested at least three to six months after a diagnosis of this condition.
Symptoms of Cushing’s disease in dogs vary, but the most common are an increased appetite and thirst. The fur also thins, and the dog may appear to have a big round belly. The condition can also lead to high blood pressure and blood clots. Your dog may become aggressive or become less calm than usual.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes is a disease that affects toy poodles and miniature pinschers. It is caused by the interruption of blood flow to the femur and causes degeneration of the head of the femur. The disease is characterized by lameness and difficulty walking. The affected leg loses muscle mass and becomes weak over time. A dog with the disease will develop a limp and be unable to bear weight on the affected leg. A veterinary surgeon may recommend a hip replacement if the symptoms are severe.
The disease typically starts in puppies and young dogs. It can also occur in cats. It is hereditary in small breeds, but can be triggered by an injury to the leg or hip. Symptoms can be present at birth or can develop after the dog reaches a certain age.
In dogs, the disease is most common in dogs under 25 pounds. It is more prevalent in terrier and toy breeds. Signs usually emerge between 5 and 8 months of age, but can appear as early as three months. Surgical and non-surgical treatments are available to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life of affected dogs. Surgical treatment is highly effective when combined with post-operative rehabilitation.
Skin irritation
Skin irritation in Poodles is a common problem, but there are some things you can do to alleviate its symptoms. Using natural products that are gentle on your dog’s skin can help heal dry skin. Some of these products include oatmeal, shea butter, and olive oil. Tea tree oil and peppermint oil can also help. A good quality shampoo is also an important part of keeping your Poodle’s coat healthy and looking great.
Poodles can be prone to skin problems that are caused by exposure to different types of weather. Dry, hot, and arid air can be hard on your dog’s skin. The heat from the sun can be extremely harmful to your pet’s skin and coat. If your dog’s coat has dried out, it may develop cracks, sores, and other problems.
Toy Poodles may also develop bladder stones. These health problems occur when the urine contains high concentrations of minerals. They can be caused by an infection, or they may be hereditary. Signs of bladder stones include excessive urination or the inability to urinate. If you’ve noticed these symptoms in your Toy Poodle, it may be time to take action.
Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia in toy pooches is often genetic, but some emerging research suggests that hip dysplasia in poodles may also be environmental in origin. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your dog’s risk. If you see the symptoms, the condition can be treated with surgery. The most common surgical procedures are total hip replacement, femoral head ostectomy, triple pelvic osteotomy, juvenile pubic symphysiodesis, and DARthroplasty.
In addition to limited range of motion, your dog may experience bunny hopping, difficulty getting up and down stairs, and difficulty climbing stairs. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, consider a hip dysplasia diagnosis. Limited range of motion in the back can also be a sign of arthritis or other serious health conditions.
Often, veterinarians can determine whether your dog suffers from hip dysplasia based on his or her x-rays. The veterinarian can also perform a physical exam to see whether your dog is experiencing hip pain or laxity in the hip joint. The vet will recommend the most appropriate treatment depending on your dog’s age, condition, and lifestyle. Younger dogs may benefit from surgery, while older dogs may benefit from a conservative approach.
Skin allergies
If your toy poodle is constantly scratching, it may be caused by skin allergies. Your veterinarian can perform tests to determine which allergens are causing the scratching. Sedation is often required to perform skin-testing. Your veterinarian will also rule out other causes for your dog’s scratching.
Treatment for skin allergies may include oral antihistamines and antibiotic creams. Depending on the severity of the condition, you may also need to treat secondary infections, such as yeast infections. If these treatments are unsuccessful, your veterinarian may recommend immunotherapy. This is a series of shots to create a tolerance to an allergen. It can be an effective treatment for mild skin allergies, but it can take six to nine months to see results.
Skin allergies in poodles can be caused by a number of things, including grass, ragweed, cleaning products, and parasite bites. If your dog constantly chews on its feet, licks their feet, or has excessive hair loss, skin allergies may be the cause. A veterinarian can diagnose your pet’s skin problems and place him on a special diet.
Eye conditions
One of the most common eye conditions among poodles is progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). This condition can affect one or both eyes and damages the photoreceptor cells in the eye. It ultimately leads to blindness and is often caused by a defective hereditary gene. Your veterinarian can detect poodles with this condition through a routine ophthalmic exam. During this exam, your vet will administer special eye drops to obtain a full pupil dilation. From there, he will be able to gauge the development of the optic nerve. This is a hereditary condition, and there is no cure for the condition, so you will have to learn to live with it and train your dog to cope with it.
As a poodle breeder, you should pay close attention to the eye health of your dog, as eye problems can be serious and can be passed down through the family tree. Fortunately, breeders have taken steps to control the propagation of glaucoma to prevent it from affecting future generations.
