2023.06.06 - [ENG 📓] - What are good and bad foods for a pet dog that is raised with love?
What are good and bad foods for a pet dog that is raised with love?
These days, we often hear the saying about pets: "Born with the heart, raised with the wallet." The presence of dogs and cats has become as important as family, or perhaps even more important. Do you have a dog or a cat as a pet? Let's focus on the hearts
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Poodles are loved by many people for their cute appearance, luxurious coat, and intelligent personality. There are traditional purebred Poodles and Poodles known as mixed breeds. They are also categorized into Toy Poodles and Standard Poodles based on their size. Let's dive into everything about Poodles.
1. History of Poodles
Poodles originated from France and the word "caniche" in French, which means "duck dog," gave rise to their name. They gained popularity among French noblewomen. The origin of Poodles has been debated, but they were originally bred as hunting dogs with a knack for water retrieval.
Nowadays, Poodles are known as small, adorable, and lovable companions, which might surprise you as they were originally hunting dogs. The ancestor of Poodles is the Barbet breed, and the Barbet and Caniche (Poodle) were initially separate but later became distinct.
There is some controversy regarding the true origin of Poodles. While Germany claimed them as their native breed, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the international canine organization, recognized Poodles as originating from France. In reality, the FCI is similar to the French Canine Association and operates independently from national canine associations.
Breeders of Poodles have made significant efforts to maintain consistent coat colors, and the most common ones are black, brown, gray, apricot, and cream. Poodles are known for their affectionate, lively, and intelligent nature, earning them the second position in the world's smartest dog rankings.
2. Personality of Poodles
Poodles, with their curly and distinctive coat, are known for being active, intelligent, and elegant. They have a playful nature and perform actions that make them appear light on their feet, resembling a dance, captivating people worldwide.
Poodles are highly intelligent, energetic, and have a friendly temperament, making them popular as companion dogs. With their exceptional intelligence and quick wit, Poodles require both physical and mental activities. When meeting unfamiliar people or being in a new environment, Poodles may initially maintain a reserved and cautious demeanor.
However, once they are convinced that the new person or environment poses no harm or threat, they gradually open up and display warm-hearted affection and playful behavior. However, due to their hunting instincts, they may exhibit behaviors like attempting to bite humans or growling at other dogs.
Nonetheless, they are not overly aggressive and, with proper understanding and care, they will repay with immense loyalty. Poodles usually have a lively and cheerful disposition but also possess a calm and composed nature. If they sense any danger to themselves or their family, they exhibit a protective instinct and are ready to go to any lengths to safeguard their loved ones.
Therefore, if you can control their aggression, they will reciprocate with extraordinary loyalty and a sense of protection.
3. Size and Weight of Poodles
Poodles are divided into four main types: Standard, Medium, Miniature, and Toy Poodles. They have a variety of sizes compared to other breeds. The classification of Poodles is based on shoulder height, and the exact height standards may vary between countries.
While there are alternative terms such as Teacup, Tiny Teacup, and Royal Standard used to describe them, these terms are not recognized by international kennel associations and are considered trademarks.
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which is responsible for breed standards in France, specifies the maximum size for Standard Poodles.
There are a total of seven organizations defining Poodle sizes, including the Kennel Club (UK), Australian Kennel Club, New Zealand Kennel Club, Canadian Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, and the FCI.
The sizes of Poodles are as follows: Standard Poodles typically range from 45-60cm, Medium Poodles range from 35-45cm, Miniature Poodles range from 28-35cm, and Toy Poodles range from 24-28cm. Among them, there is also a breed called the Poodle "original" or "Standard Original" which can reach a size of 44-59cm.
4. Health of Poodles
Some of the most significant health issues in Poodles include ear infections, hormone-related disorders, and blood-related conditions. Due to the hair covering their ears, proper ear care is crucial for Poodles as they may experience poor ventilation. Hormone-related disorders are particularly common in Poodles.
Cushing's syndrome, a condition caused by excessive secretion of steroid hormones, is one of the most common diseases. If your Poodle suddenly develops pale mucous membranes or experiences the appearance of numerous red spots on the skin, you should consider the possibility of thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelet count).
Additionally, Toy Poodles should be cautious of patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap). It is advisable to provide a non-slip mat or cushions inside the house to minimize the impact when your pet jumps or lands. Due to their active and lively nature, extra attention is required.
Tears are a common enemy for dogs. Dogs may produce tears due to various reasons, which can lead to eye diseases. If tears accumulate excessively, tear stains can darken, and the fur around the eyes can become dirty. In severe cases, it may even cause discoloration. To prevent this, it is important to be cautious about feeding oily or salty foods.
5. Grooming and Coat Care
Poodles have a dense, curly, and non-shedding coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. The curly coat of Poodles doesn't shed like other breeds, which makes them suitable for people with allergies.
However, it also means that their coats can become easily tangled and matted if not properly cared for.
Regular brushing is essential for Poodles to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. The frequency of brushing depends on the length of the coat and the desired style. For Poodles with longer hair, daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats. Poodles with shorter hair may require brushing every few days.
In addition to brushing, Poodles require regular haircuts to maintain their distinctive appearance. Many Poodle owners opt for professional grooming services to achieve the desired haircut styles, such as the "puppy clip" or the more elaborate "continental clip." It's important to find a skilled groomer who is familiar with Poodle cuts and can work with you to achieve the desired look for your Poodle.
Poodles also require regular bathing to keep their coat clean and free from dirt and debris. However, frequent bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils, so it's important to use a gentle dog shampoo specifically formulated for Poodles or dogs with sensitive skin. Regular ear cleaning is also necessary to prevent ear infections, as Poodles are prone to ear problems due to their floppy ears and limited air circulation.
6. Exercise and Training
Despite their elegant appearance, Poodles are highly energetic dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games are essential to prevent boredom and channel their energy in a positive way. Poodles enjoy activities like fetching, swimming, and agility training. Mental stimulation is equally important, as Poodles are intelligent dogs that thrive on learning and problem-solving. Engage them in puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive training sessions to keep their minds sharp.
Poodles are known for their trainability and eagerness to please their owners. They excel in obedience training and are often seen participating in dog sports and competitions. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards, praise, and treats, work best when training Poodles. They are sensitive dogs and respond well to gentle and consistent training techniques.
7. Health Issues
While Poodles are generally considered a healthy breed, they are prone to certain health issues that prospective owners should be aware of. Some common health problems in Poodles include:
- Hip Dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disease that can eventually cause blindness.
- Addison's Disease: A hormonal disorder that affects the adrenal glands and can result in fatigue, weakness, and weight loss.
- Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and traps gas, leading to bloating and possible organ damage.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and a safe environment can help minimize the risk of these health issues. It's also advisable to obtain your Poodle from a reputable breeder who conducts health testing on their breeding dogs to reduce the likelihood of hereditary conditions.
Remember, each individual Poodle is unique, and their health and well-being depend on various factors. Providing them with proper care, nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary attention will help ensure they lead a happy and healthy life.