Have you always wanted to own a dog, but you or someone close to you is allergic to them? A great solution is getting a hypoallergenic pet. There are several dog breeds that do not produce nearly the same amount of dander when they are compared to most dog breeds. Though people tend to make fun of poodles’ feminine and hoity-toity characteristics, they truly are fun dogs to have around.

The standard poodle is also known by the names of Caniche, Barbone, and Chien Canne. Most scholars agree that the poodle originated in France, though some believe poodles came from Denmark or Germany. These dogs have been known since the beginning of the 1600’s, and are depicted particularly in French Renaissance paintings and artwork. It is believed that the name “poodle” derives from the German word “pudel” which means, “one who plays in the water.” Poodles have been known for helping their owners in the retrieval of various animals and fish found in lakes, rivers and streams.

Poodles are generally labeled into 3 different sizes: standard, toy, and miniature. The standard poodle is generally around 15 inches tall, and weighs around 45 to 70 lbs. Their coat is thick and curly, and does not shed; this is why they are excellent for people who are allergic to most dogs. Sometimes the owners clip or shave the hair short, and some allow it to grow long and poofy. They can be clipped in any kind of manner; it simply depends on the owner or the groomer’s preference on appearance. The standard poodle’s coloring varies, as with most breeds; however, poodles are generally white, black, grey, amber, or tan.

Standard poodles are active, alert, and highly intelligent dogs. Because of their intelligence, they were known for helping their owners in performing many different kinds of jobs, such as pointing and hunting. Poodles have even been known to perform in circuses because of their exceptional trainability and intelligence. Poodles also make superb watchdogs, but because of their temperament, they need to be around people constantly and they greatly enjoy playing and being active. Because of poodles’ friendly and outgoing personality, they are perfect for a family with children. These dogs love to play and are affectionate and sensitive to their owner’s feelings.

Health issues that often arise with this breed are hip dysplacia, ear infections, and cataracts. Though they do experience health problems like most breeds, they tend to have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Keeping their eyes and ears clean will help them tremendously in the long run. Also, they have a tendency to bloat, so it is better to feed them several small meals a day instead of one or two large ones.

As you begin looking to a family dog that is low on allergens, consider a poodle. They are energetic, intelligent, friendly, and fun loving. They are excellent family dogs and they love to play with children of all ages. Consider a poodle as the next addition to your family; you won’t regret it!

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Pets are like people; as they age, it is noticeable, and they need more care as they grow older and older. As your precious pet ages, you will need to be aware of and look for signs of aging, as well as being increasingly familiar with possible danger areas and/or diseases that older pets are susceptible to.

Some classic signs of aging in dogs are similar to those of humans. They tend to lose hair, it tends to turn gray or white around their muzzle, and it loses its luster and shine. Their eyes can become somewhat glassy and can turn a bluish milky-gray color instead of the sparkling black or brown they had when they were younger. Their muscles also tend to weaken, and they are not as active and agile as they used to be. They tend to walk more slowly and sleep more often. Their temperament sometimes may become more relaxed and docile. Some older pets are also susceptible to joint problems such as arthritis.

As your beloved pet ages, be sure to keep an eye out for warning signs of greater issues. If you spot anything suspicious, take your pet to their veterinarian immediately. Here is a short list of some common warning signs in elderly pets:

- Poor dental health; loss of teeth, bleeding or irritated gums, exceptionally bad breath,
and difficulty chewing food
- Excessive panting or labored breathing while walking or jogging
- Lameness or noticeably weakened limbs; difficulty walking
- Frequent vomiting
- Fluctuation of weight by 10% (either loss or gain)
- Change in housebreaking habits, such as excessive urination
- Significant change in appetite (increase or decrease)
- Unusual lumps or masses noticeably felt or seen on or under the skin
- Significant change in energy level (either lethargy or hyperactivity)
- Dizziness, loss of balance or unusual head tilting that favors one side
- Significant increase in water intake
- Coughing
- Vision loss, excessive drying of the eyes, filmy eyes
- Loss of hearing

For elderly dogs, the most common issues are heart disease, hyperthyroidism, arthritis, kidney disease and severe dental issues. It is in your dog’s best interest to keep your eyes and ears open for significant changes in your pet’s behavior and physique. You should take your elderly pet to the veterinary clinic for routine check-ups about every six months.

As you precious dog ages, continue to keep a critical eye on them and make them as comfortable as possible. This may mean purchasing items such as a comfortable doggie bed, a ramp up to the bed or a ramp for getting in and out of the car easily. This will take the strain off their joints and will help you from lifting them into the car for their routine veterinary appointments.

As your best friend ages, remember the various warning signs of serious illness and disease. Be sure to ask your veterinarian if you should have any questions pertaining to your pet’s health or behavior. Keep your dog comfortable, and enjoy just having your pet around!

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If you are a dog owner, there is no doubt that you treat your dog as another member of your family. As your dog ages, he or she may have different needs than when he or she was younger. As your dog approaches its senior years, old dog care will become an important part of your dog’s life.

Different dog breeds age at different rates. Often those who are considered to be “mutts” are generally hardier than purebred dogs. However, no matter what breed of dog you have, at some point in your dog’s life it is going to exhibit signs of aging. You have to be ready for this so that your dog will be able to receive the kind of care necessary for an older dog.

As is much the same with human medicine, veterinary medicine has made great strides in geriatric care. Now our pets can live longer than ever before. With some effort on your part, you will be able to provide your old dog with they type of care that is suitable for your faithful companion so that he or she can live to be a comfortable and pleasant old age.

The Aging Process

Here are some noticeable signs that Fido is showing his age: sleeping more, being startled by noises, eating less, bright lights, loss of activity, not coming right away when you call (may indicate difficulty moving such as arthritis or hearing loss), duller coat, eyes that are not quite as bright or may seem clouded (may indicate cataracts), skin that has less elasticity, loss of bowel or bladder control in a dog that was previously well house-trained.

Keeping Your Senior Dog Comfy

You want your dog to remain comfortable in his or her old age; therefore, you should provide the proper care for your senior dog.

First, most dogs are aware that they should not relieve themselves in the house. If your geriatric dog happens to have an accident in the house, try to be comforting and understanding. This is not a time for punishment because most dogs sense that they have done something wrong. With senior dogs, it’s a good idea to let them out more often than you might have when he was younger.

Also, provide a comfortable bed, preferably an orthopedic bed for your old dog to lie on. Many aging dogs like to sleep next to the heater vent which makes a cozy place for his bed. Make sure that you can easily throw the cover in the washer. This way, if your dog does have an accident, it will be easier to clean up. If you must keep your dog out of certain places, then try using a baby gate so that he will not go in that particular room.

Second, you should take your senior dog to the vet regularly for check-ups to make sure that he remains healthy. Routinely brush your dog’s teeth and have your vet remove any excess plaque build-up. An unhealthy mouth not only causes gingivitis, tooth loss and soreness but it can also lead to other medical concerns such as heart problems. Third, make sure you give your senior pooch a proper diet. Older dogs are generally less active and a lower calorie food should be considered if your dog is becoming over weight. Also, veterinarians can provide prescription foods for dogs with medical conditions including heart and kidney problems.

Fourth, watch out for the safety of your dog. As eyesight and hearing fail and as coordination becomes more unsteady, your pet may have trouble with stairs and may fall and injure himself. If you place baby gates in strategic places, this can help make sure that your dog does not take a spill.

Fifth, and finally, make sure you give your aging pet lots and lots of love as part of your old dog care regimen. Remember that your pet is the same loving dog that he or she has always been despite a little more gray hair. To make your senior pet still feel part of the family, shower him or her with love and attention just as you always have.

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