Caring for your Standard Poodle

Quick answer

Standard Poodles are active, intelligent dogs that require consistent daily exercise and regular professional grooming to maintain their health. Beyond their coat care, owners should be vigilant for specific health conditions that are known to affect the breed. By performing regular physical checks at home and working closely with your vet to monitor for early signs of illness, you can ensure your dog remains comfortable and healthy throughout their life.

Sebaceous Adenitis

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may first notice your dog developing patches of hair loss, often accompanied by a dry, scaly appearance to the skin. The coat may lose its typical texture and appear dull or brittle. When you visit the vet, they will likely perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. This is a condition that requires long-term management to keep the skin comfortable. The most common mistake owners make is assuming the scaling is simply dry skin or a minor allergy, which can delay the start of appropriate treatment.

Addison's Disease

This is well recognised in the breed. Owners often notice a gradual decline in energy, a reduced appetite, or intermittent bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. Because these signs are vague, they are often mistaken for a simple stomach upset. Your vet will perform blood tests to check electrolyte levels and adrenal function. This condition is considered an emergency if the dog enters an Addisonian crisis, which involves sudden collapse and severe weakness. If your dog seems unusually lethargic or refuses food, seek veterinary attention immediately to rule out this condition.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

This is well recognised in the breed. You will notice your dog attempting to vomit without producing anything, a distended or hard abdomen, and extreme restlessness. This is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. The vet will use imaging to confirm the twist and will likely recommend immediate surgery. The most dangerous mistake is waiting to see if the dog improves overnight. If you suspect this, go to an emergency clinic without delay.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog having difficulty rising from a resting position, a change in their gait, or a reluctance to jump or climb stairs. Your vet will perform a physical examination and use radiographs to assess the fit of the hip joint. While not always an emergency, it causes chronic discomfort that requires management. Avoid the mistake of ignoring a slight limp, as early intervention can significantly improve your dog's quality of life.

Epilepsy

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. The first sign is often a sudden seizure, where the dog may lose consciousness, paddle their legs, or experience muscle twitching. Your vet will perform blood work and potentially neurological testing to rule out other causes. It is important to keep a log of the duration and frequency of these events to help your vet determine the best course of action. Do not attempt to restrain your dog during a seizure, but ensure they are in a safe area away from stairs or sharp objects.

Bloat

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. While related to the stomach twisting mentioned earlier, simple bloating involves the stomach filling with gas. You will notice a firm, swollen belly and signs of distress. The vet will determine if the stomach is merely distended or if it has twisted. Do not wait for the dog to pass gas or recover on their own, as this can quickly escalate into a surgical emergency.