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Poodle Health & Genetics

Contaminated dog food update! 
Protect your poodle's health

Most dog owners are aware of the generally accepted belief that "big dogs live shorter lives than small dogs."  The poodle appears to be an exception to the rule.  Almost amazingly, many owners have reported that their standard poodles have lived to 15, 18, even 20 years of age -- the same lifespan often reported by owners of miniature and toy poodles!  Whether a result of genetic prowess or just good clean living, it's nice to know that there's a good chance your poodle will be around for a full and endearing life.

Like most other dogs, the poodle has been found to be genetically predisposed to several diseases.  Good breeders take special care to screen their poodles in an attempt to limit and ultimately diminish those occurrences that crop up.  Proper nutrition and regular check-ups can play a key role in keeping your poodle happy and healthy. Owners should be aware of these diseases and be able to identify symptoms in order to seek proper remedies, if necessary.  Some of the  diseases most common to poodles include.

Hip Dysplasia:  A malformation of the hip joint in which the ball and socket do not properly fit together.

Epilepsy:  Seizures lasting from 30 seconds to several minutes.

Gastric Tortion-Bloat:  A life-threatening condition in which a twisting of the stomach causes air to be trapped and normal blood flow to be cut off from the spleen and liver. It requires immediate veterinary care!

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):  A gradual deterioration of the retina of the eye which ultimately leads to blindness.

prcd-PRA: An additional form of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) found in miniatures and toys caused by a recessive gene called prcd (progressive rod-cone degeneration).

Legg-Calve-Perthe's Disease:  A deterioration of the hip joint cartilage caused by a loss of blood supply to the cap of the femur bone.

Sebaceous Adenitis ("SA"):  A skin disease involving a progressive loss of hair caused by the inflamation and ultimate destruction of the sebaceous glands.  Most commonly afflicting young adult dogs, its cause is generally unknown.

Patellar Luxation:  A dislocation of the kneecap from abnormal structure of the stifle joint, as well as muscles and tendons.

von Willebrand's Disease: An inherited blood disorder similar to hemopheolia in humans.

Addison's Disease: Destruction of the adrenal gland and resulting loss of associated essential hormones.

For everyday medical reference we like to keep Robert Brown's  Poodle Owners Medical Manual close at hand.

We're also big believers in the value of natural and holistic healthcare methods.  We have experienced wonderful things with our dogs and know of many other people who swear by the use of quality herbal remedies and nutritional supplements.