The Best Diet for Poodles

Poodles are beautiful, playful, and friendly dogs. An essential part of caring for poodle puppies is creating a diet that keeps them healthy and energetic.

 

A reputable breeder will give you specific diet and care tips for your new puppy. If you go with a poodle rescue rather than through a dog breeder (not puppy mills), it is imperative to do some research to find the best diet and health care tips for your new furry friend.

 

This article should give you a good idea about what diet your new poodle needs. The first thing to know is that there are three main types of poodles: Standard, toy, and miniature. Although they are the same breed of dog, they have some differences.

Standard Poodles

The standard poodle is the largest type of poodle. They often grow to be up to two feet tall and can weigh between 45 to 80 pounds.

Toy Poodles

Unlike the standard poodle, a toy poodle will remain relatively small even as they grow into an adult dog. As an adult, a toy poodle will stand about ten inches tall and typically weigh less than ten pounds, earning them the alternative name of the teacup poodle.

Miniature Poodle

Miniature poodles are also significantly smaller than the standard poodle. As an adult, they tend to be about 15 inches tall and can weigh up to 20 pounds. Due to their unique poodle personality, they are often referred to as sissy dogs.

Poodle History

Poodles are an extremely intelligent breed. Poodle owners originally bred the dog breed for hunting ducks, earning them the title of “duck dog.” Back then, dog training for poodles primarily focused on retrieving and returning.

 

Although the famous poodle cut or puppy clip is considered a poodle hair fashion trend, it serves a more functional purpose. Shaving the curly coat around the legs makes the poodle dog a more efficient swimmer. However, leaving sections of the poodle’s coat around their ankles and torso insulate their vital organs and joints to protect them while swimming in cold water.

The Best Diet for Poodle Health

As highly active dogs, poodles rely on a balanced diet to maintain high energy levels and a healthy lifestyle. These diets should include healthy fats, protein, carbohydrates, and plenty of water.

How Often Should You Feed Your Poodle?

The age and size of your poodle will determine how often they need to eat. For example, puppies under three months old should have constant access to their dog food. Letting them free feed helps protect their growing digestive system while making sure they maintain their playful puppy energy.

 

Puppies that are older than three months should be eating about three meals every day. The same goes for toy poodles and miniature poodles. Although adult dogs typically eat only once or twice a day, the smaller duck dogs will remain the size of an average puppy and should eat more frequently.

 

Adult standard poodles weigh significantly more than the other poodles and require a greater caloric intake. On average, an adult standard poodle should eat between 990 and 1,300 calories every day. Those that participate in dog sports or lead a more active lifestyle should consume between 1,300 and 1,700 calories daily.

Proteins

Including a sufficient amount of protein in your poodle’s diet is critical. Half of your pet’s diet should consist of healthy animal proteins; these proteins can include chicken, salmon, and turkey. When going to the pet store for more food, check the ingredients to ensure there is enough protein to fuel your favorite fur baby.

Carbs

A balanced diet includes more than high amounts of protein. Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy, vitamins, and fiber. These carbs can come from fruits, vegetables, potatoes, rice, oats, and other starches.

Although some fruits can be a healthy treat for your dog, there are certain foods that are toxic to them.

 

• Grapes
• Avocados
• Macadamia nuts
• Onions

 

Along with avoiding these foods, also try to stay away from feeding your puppy corn or wheat gluten, as they often cause allergic reactions.

Fats

Incorporating healthy fats into your dog’s diet gives your furry friend essential vitamins and fatty acids. The typical poodle will require sufficient healthy fats to reduce inflammation and promote healthy dog hair.

 

Although most store-bought food includes a certain level of healthy fats, many pet owners prefer to add oils such as flax oil or coconut oil to their dry food. Not only does this reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin, but it also leads to a shinier coat!

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Stay Active

As a naturally active dog breed, poodles require plenty of food and exercise. In addition, poodle puppies have plenty of energy to burn, so keeping them active by taking them on regular walks is essential. Finding local dog walkers to let your puppy out during the day can help families with

busy schedules.

 

Visiting dog parks is a great way to socialize with other puppies and let your little fur baby run around. Most parks have separate sections for smaller dogs to play with others of their same size.

Don’t Forget About Pet Grooming

The traditional poodle has thick, curly fur. Therefore, an essential part of a healthy lifestyle for your poodle is proper grooming. A pet owner should plan to groom their furry friend’s hair at least once every eight weeks.

 

When taking your pet to the groomers, remember to ask them about your poodle’s ears. Although we love the long floppy look, fur can grow inside their ears and potentially cause infections.

 

From dominating every national dog show to being excellent hunters, poodles are an exceptional breed with many talents. Finding purebred dogs can often seem difficult, but Family Affair Puppies in Topeka, Indiana, is here to help. From breeding dogs to helping families pick out their new furry friends, we are passionate about what we do.

 

Contact our team by calling 260-350-4840  to find your perfect puppy!