12 Common Poodle Health Issues

Poodles are a beloved breed. Smart, energetic, playful, and with an enviable curly coat, the Poodle just about has it all. These pups make wonderful family dogs and come in a range of sizes, Standard, Toy, and Miniature, so they can fit many different lifestyles. While the Poodle breed is generally healthy, there are a few health issues and concerns to be aware of.

I’ve broken down some of the most common Poodle health issues and symptoms to keep an eye out for. If you suspect any of these conditions in your Poodle, it’s best to discuss them with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are pivotal to helping dogs overcome serious health issues and give them the longest life possible. A healthy lifestyle and high-quality diet are also key components to keeping your Poodle healthy and happy. I’ll also discuss some Poodle health care costs and how pet insurance could benefit your pup’s long-term health.

From The Veterinarian

To get some insight from the medical perspective, I spoke with Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS. Dr. MacMillan is a veterinarian and surgeon who focuses on small animal practice. Here’s what she had to say:

“Poodles are a popular breed. There’s a size for everyone! However, as with any pedigree breed, they are prone to certain health complaints. Some of these conditions span the different Poodle sizes, whereas others are more specific to each type. All three varieties of Poodle, standard, miniature, and toy, are at risk from progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which is an eye disorder leading to gradual loss of retinal function. This can lead to blindness and cannot be reversed. The condition is hereditary, so animals affected by the condition should not be bred. Genetic testing and regular eye exams can help to make sure that only healthy dogs are mated.”

Dr. MacMillan goes on, “Von Willebrand’s disease (VWD) is a bleeding disorder caused by a lack of clotting agent known as Von Willebrand factor. This condition is also hereditary, like PRA, and can affect all Poodles, so pre-mating testing is advisable. Epilepsy is another problem that all Poodles could be affected by. It causes seizure episodes and requires long-term medication to keep under control.”

12 Common Poodle Health Problems

1. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an inherited eye disease that can impact Poodles. It can lead to blindness in dogs and progresses slowly over time. PRA is not a painful condition but impacts a dog’s vision. It starts with dogs having difficulty seeing at night and low light. Slow, progressive blindness eventually takes over.

Symptoms

• Night blindness in both eyes
• Clumsiness in low light
• Bumping into objects
• Excessively dilated pupils
• Reflective eyes when light is on them

Diagnosis & Treatment

If you suspect your pup is losing vision, schedule a vet visit. They will perform some tests to see how the eye responds. Sadly, there are no treatments for PRA. You must change your routine and environment to suit your pup’s vision loss. Dogs can memorize their own yard and environment, but you must take extra care that they do not have obstacles in their way that can cause injury, like steps, fences, balconies, and pools.

2. Addison’s Disease

Also called hypoadrenocorticism, this disease is caused by decreased production of hormones from the adrenal gland. These small glands are located near the kidneys. The adrenal glands produce two essential hormones: aldosterone, which regulates sodium and potassium levels in the body, and cortisol, a stress hormone.

In dogs, Addison’s disease is often the result of immune-mediated destruction of adrenal tissue. It can also be caused by damage to the glands from infection, trauma, or disease like cancer.

Addison’s disease affects Standard Poodles more than the other varieties. In some cases, it can be a side effect of treatment for Cushing’s disease. A less common form of Addison’s disease can cause a tumor to grow in the pituitary gland, a regulator of hormones throughout the body. Dogs with this condition can seem extremely relaxed.

Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Trembling
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Dehydration
• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Weakness

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis for Addison’s disease will include a physical exam as well as blood and urine tests. In particular, a blood test called act stimulation will test for the hormone that triggers the adrenal gland to produce cortisol. In some cases, abdominal ultrasounds and X-rays may also be a part of the diagnosis to rule out other medical issues. There is no cure for Addison’s disease, and your dog will require lifelong treatment after diagnosis.

In most cases, dogs with Addison’s disease will need to take oral supplementation of cortisol, while aldosterone requires an injection approximately once a month. There is also an oral medication, fluorine, which works to replace both hormones. Depending upon your dog’s condition, your veterinarian will decide which treatment approach is best. Should your dog reach a crisis, intravenous fluids and medications may be needed to stabilize the body.

3. Gastric Dilation Volvulus

Gastric dilation volvulus, also called canine bloat, tends to affect larger, deep-chested breeds, including the Standard Poodle. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills too quickly and twists in on itself. It is often triggered by dogs eating or drinking too fast. The stomach twisting blocks blood flow and causes extreme swelling, a medical emergency.

Symptoms

• Drooling
• Restlessness
• Distended abdomen
• Pale gums
• Dry heaving or unproductive vomiting
• A rapid heartbeat, also called tachycardia
• Pacing
• Panting
• Weakened pulse
• Pain and discomfort
• Swollen hard belly
• Sudden anxiety

Treatment & Diagnosis

Canine bloat is a medical emergency; immediate treatment is needed to save a dog’s life. In some cases, it may require surgery, which can be very expensive. If bloat is caught in the early stages, it can be treated by non-emergency surgery, intravenous fluids, medication, and more.

Preventing canine bloat is important, especially if you have a breed prone to the condition, like the Standard Poodle. Providing your dog with a raised food and water bowl and smaller meals spaced throughout the day can prevent them from eating too quickly and reduce the risk of bloat.

4. Thyroid Issues

Poodles are prone to thyroid malfunction. The thyroid controls many of the body’s internal systems, including a significant role in regulating metabolism. In particular, they are at risk for hypothyroidism, a condition where the body doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone, which causes the metabolism to slow down.

Symptoms

• Weight gain
• Lethargy
• Decreased activity level
• Abnormal hair loss without itching
• Dry, dull, brittle coat
• Skin darkening
• Recurrent infections in ears and skin
• Intolerance to cold
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

Diagnosis & Treatment

Your veterinarian will observe the different clinical signs and symptoms in your dog. Lab work, such as blood work, can show abnormalities, including elevated cholesterol, kidney levels, and anemia. Your veterinarian will do specific blood tests to measure the thyroid values of thyroid hormones and antibodies in your dog’s system. Once a diagnosis has been made, your veterinarian will likely prescribe a synthetic thyroid hormone called levothyroxine. Your dog must take this medication once or twice daily for the rest of their life. Dogs who receive accurate diagnosis and treatment have a positive prognosis and can live a relatively normal life.

Poodles can also suffer from a thyroid malfunction called hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid produces too much hormone. This condition is rare and is often the side effect of thyroid carcinoma.

5. Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a skeletal condition that occurs when the hip joint does not form a proper ball and socket. The malformation causes the joint to rub together rather than smoothly sliding in. This malformation causes deterioration of the joint and impacts function. As the condition progresses, it also leads to pain and mobility issues. Hip dysplasia is often hereditary and is common in large breed dogs, like the Standard Poodle. However, it can impact dogs of all sizes.

Symptoms

• Grating in the hip joint
• Decreased range of motion
• Hopping gait
• Hind leg lameness
• Loss of muscle mass
• Stiffness and limping
• Pain

Diagnosis & Treatment

Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, which will include manipulating your dog’s back legs. This is done to test the joint’s range of motion. During this exam, they will look for any type of pain, grinding, or looseness. Along with that, blood work will likely be done as there are indicators of inflammation in the blood count. Your veterinarian will also consider your dog’s history, overall health, and other clinical signs. An X-ray or radiograph of your dog’s hips will likely also be done to make the final determination.

Once a dog has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, there are a variety of treatment options. Less severe cases may be treated with lifestyle modifications, while others may require surgery. Weight reduction, exercise restriction, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and joint supplements are all options your vet may recommend.

Depending on your dog’s age and stage of hip dysplasia, surgery can include anything from improving joint function to a total hip replacement.

6. Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, the most common one seen in dogs, that is characterized by the presence of recurrent and unprovoked seizures. It can be inherited, caused by structural issues in the brain, or be of unknown cause. Standard Poodles are genetically predisposed to epilepsy, and even if they don’t actively have the disease, if they carry the recessive gene, they can pass it on to their children. There are a few different kinds of canine epilepsy. Poodles are most commonly affected by idiopathic epilepsy.

Symptoms

• Generalized seizures
• Stiffening of the neck and legs
• Stumbling
• Falling over
• Shaking and trembling
• Loss of bladder and bowel control
• Excessive drooling

Diagnosis & Treatment

To diagnose a dog with epilepsy, veterinarians must rule out all other medical issues that may cause seizures. This will involve gathering a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination. Diagnostic testing, including urine and blood tests as well as X-rays, will be done. In some cases, testing will go further and include cerebrospinal fluid testing, bile acids, CT scans, or MRIs. If a specific cause for seizures is not found, then a dog may be diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy.

Treatment includes anti-seizure medications and lifestyle changes to accommodate your pet’s medical condition. Phenobarbital, potassium bromide, gabapentin, and clonazepam are drugs that are sometimes used to control health-related seizures. There is no cure for this disease, so treatment mainly consists of managing symptoms.

7. Hypoglycemia

Toy Poodle pups are especially prone to hypoglycemia. Puppies typically outgrow this condition; however, some adult dogs may still be affected. It’s important to identify the symptoms of hypoglycemia in puppies since this illness needs to be treated immediately. An abrupt drop in blood sugar may significantly affect a dog’s neurological function.

Hypoglycemia can occur as a side effect of various conditions such as Addison’s disease, pancreatic tumors, liver disease, and other problems. It can also come from simple cases of overexertion or prolonged skipping of meals.

Symptoms

• Disorientation
• Tremors
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy and weakness
• Loss of coordination
• Shaking and trembling
• Vomiting
• Muscle twitching
• Discoloration of skin and gums
• Seizures

Diagnosis & Treatment

If your dog develops chronic hypoglycemia, your veterinarian will probably perform a detailed examination and obtain a medical history from you. A complete blood count, blood glucose level, routine biochemistry, blood insulin level, and urinalysis are among the tests that could be performed.

An ultrasound may also be conducted to rule out any kind of tumor in the pancreas or abdomen. Give sugar water or an oral glucose concentration, such as corn syrup or Nutri-cal, right away to a dog that seems so confused that it’s in a stupor or coma. Place a few drops of sugar water underneath your dog’s tongue if you have no other alternative.

8. Collapsed Trachea

Tracheal collapse occurs when the tracheal cartilage breaks down. It is a progressive respiratory disease. Affected dogs may experience dyspnea and develop a dry, hacking cough.

Although the underlying cause of this disorder is frequently unknown, it is most often a congenital condition. Dogs develop hacking and unproductive coughs but rarely get fevers. Physical activity, drinking water, and excitement can cause respiratory complications. Extreme heat waves or low temperatures can also bring on breathing problems.

Symptoms

• Breathing difficulties
• Coughing when being lifted or having pressure placed on the neck
• Coughing and gagging
• Vomiting or retching
• Unproductive cough
• Blue color to the skin
• Mucous membranes have a blue tint

Diagnosis & Treatment

A tracheal collapse diagnosis will be made after a comprehensive and detailed medical history and physical examination. In addition, your veterinarian will probably perform fluoroscopy, a form of chest X-ray that records motion images in real time while your dog breathes in and out. Additional testing may involve a bronchoscopy performed under general anesthesia and a tracheoscopy. In addition, blood tests such as a chemistry panel, urinalysis, heartworm test, and blood count may be ordered by your vet.

Medication and preventative care are commonly used for the treatment of tracheal collapse. Antibiotics, steroids, sedatives, cough suppressants, and bronchodilators are a few examples of medications. to aid in controlling coughing and reducing inflammation. Your vet might recommend modifying your dog’s lifestyle to lose weight and walk with a harness rather than a leash and collar. Learn more about the best harnesses for Poodles in our reviews.

9. Sebaceous Adenitis

This disease is thought to be immune-related and affects a dog’s oil glands. Glands in the skin, called sebaceous glands, produce sebum, which helps keep their skin and coat healthy, moisturized, and soft. Sebaceous adenitis (SA) is an inflammatory disease that destroys the sebaceous glands and causes a lack of sebum. Dogs with SA have hair loss, brittle hair, and dandruff and can develop secondary skin infections. SA is rare in dogs overall, but Standard Poodles are one of the few breeds prone to inheriting it.

Symptoms

• Brittle, dry hair
• Matted hair
• Dandruff
• Hair loss
• Scaly skin
• Scarred skin
• Greasy, discolored skin
• Itching
• Secondary skin infections

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis of sebaceous adenitis involves tests such as skin scrapes and cultures to rule out other conditions, as well as a skin biopsy. The condition is not curable but is also not an emergency. You should be able to get treatment during your vet’s normal hours. SA requires management through medication, topical applications, omega fatty acid supplements, and antibiotics.

10. Legg Calvé Perthes

Legg Calvé Perthes disease is a hereditary condition that causes the hip joint to collapse. It is a congenital condition that generally affects younger toy and miniature breeds. Though uncommon, Poodles are prone to it, especially the smaller sizes. The blood supply to the hip joint is interrupted, causing the bony tissue to break down. This causes the femoral head to be malformed, causing pain and limited mobility.

Symptoms

• Stiffness in back legs
• Licking and chewing the hip area
• Limping and lameness
• Restlessness
• Lethargy
• Withdrawn
• Pain moving hip
• Grating and popping sounds from the hip joint
• Muscle atrophy

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosing Legg Calvé Perthes requires a medical history, exam, and x-rays. Your vet must rule out other orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia. Treatment ranges from rest, medication, pain management, weight control, and in some cases, surgery. Surgery is the most effective treatment but requires rehabilitation therapy.

11. Von Willebrand’s Disease

Von Willebrand’s disease is a very common inherited bleeding disorder in dogs. Humans can also have this condition. The body does not produce enough of a certain protein, called the von Willebrand factor, to help form blood clots. Due to this deficiency, the body can be prone to excessive bleeding. It can be incredibly serious but can go undiagnosed due to very mild symptoms in some dogs.

Symptoms

• Bloody urine or stool
• Vaginal bleeding in female dogs
• Spontaneous bleeding from gums and nose
• Excessive bruising or bleeding after a spay or neuter procedure
• Excessive bleeding during surgery
• Prolonged bleeding after surgery or serious injury

Diagnosis & Treatment

If you suspect von Willebrand’s disease in your dog, you can try genetic testing to help identify if your dog carries the gene for this disease. Diagnosis includes screenings, though these usually do not happen unless a dog is in pre-surgery. Sometimes, the diagnosis is made during a surgical procedure if the blood takes a long time to clot.

Currently, there are no medications to treat this condition. Treatment often involves a blood or plasma transfusion to introduce more von Willebrand factor into the dog’s system. In some cases, dogs undergoing surgery may be given a synthetic hormone that can help temporarily increase the level of this factor, but it does not work for all forms of von Willebrand disease. Ideally, carriers of this disease or the genetic mutation should not breed to prevent further generations from being effective.

If purchasing a purebred dog, it is best to ask the breeder about their screening practices for von Willebrand’s disease.

12. Patellar Luxation

A luxating patella, or dislocated kneecap, is a common orthopedic condition among dogs. It can affect both the hind and front legs. It occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, impacting gait and mobility. However, when it slips back in, dogs will walk as if nothing is wrong. Patellar luxation is often congenial and hereditary but can happen after a traumatic injury. There are several grades of severity, and treatment will depend on that, as well as a dog’s specific condition.

Symptoms

• Bunny hopping or skipping
• Locking up of knee joint
• Intermittent lameness in one hind leg
• Walking on three legs
• Pain
• Less interest in walking or physical play

Treatment & Diagnosis

Along with a physical exam, your vet may run some X-rays and take fluid from the knee to test. X-rays are done under sedation, and further imaging, such as a CT scan, may be done. Treatment depends on the grade. Dogs with a lower grade may not need treatment other than lifestyle changes and monitoring. Other dogs may need pain treatment or even surgery.

Common Poodle Health Issues By Size

While all Poodles can be affected by the conditions described above, a few impact each size more than others. I spoke with Dr. MacMillan for more insight.

Standard Poodle Health Issues

Standard Poodles are more likely to be affected by a condition known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) due to their large size and deeper chest. The stomach becomes bloated and twists on itself, which can be fatal without prompt intervention. Standard Poodles are also more likely than toy or miniature varieties to develop sebaceous adenitis, a type of inflammatory skin disease that can lead to hair loss, crusty skin, and itchiness.

Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) can affect all Poodles, but especially Standard ones. Insufficient hormones are produced by the adrenal glands, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and collapse. Standard Poodles are also more likely to be affected by hip dysplasia, though Miniature Poodles can be affected to a lesser degree. This congenital condition affects how a dog’s hip joints form, leading to pain and secondary arthritis.

– Dr. Rebecca MacMillan

Other health issues that can impact Standard Poodles include:

• Cushing’s Disease
• Cancer
• Kidney Disease
• Ear infections

Toy Poodle Health Issues

Toy and Miniature Poodles, however, are much more likely to be affected by patellar luxation, an issue causing dislocation of the patella (kneecap). The kneecap slides in and out of its normal position, leading to pain, lameness, and an abnormal gait. It affects animals to varying degrees of severity, some of which may require surgical intervention. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a degenerative hip joint condition that also predominantly affects Toy and Miniature Poodles. Blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted, leading to changes in the bone and arthritis.

– Dr. Rebecca MacMillan

Other Toy Poodle health issues include:

• Dental disease
• Cataracts
• Hypoglycemia
• Skin tumors
• Bladder stones
• Cushing’s disease

Miniature Poodle Health Issues

Along with those medical concerns addressed above, Mini Poodles can also be susceptible to the following:

• Dental disease
• Mitral valve disease
• Viral infections

Please keep in mind that this is not a complete list. You should speak with your vet about any health concerns you have. You can also ask for health screenings and do an at-home dog DNA test, which can shed some light on your puppy’s breed makeup, as well as the potential for some genetic health issues.

Health Testing For Poodles

“Purchasing your Poodle pup from a reputable breeder who has done all of the recommended pre-mating tests should increase your chances of having a healthy dog. Regular vet checks will also help spot any problems early on, allowing your pet to start treatment as soon as possible.”

– Dr. Rebecca MacMillan

The Poodle Club of America suggests some health testing for all three sizes of Poodle.

1. Toy Poodles should have a progressive retinal atrophy DNA test, an eye examination by a boarded ACVO ophthalmologist, a DNA-based test, an exam for patellar luxation, and an OFA hip evaluation around the age of 1 year.
2. Miniature Poodles should have a progressive retinal atrophy DNA test, an eye examination by a board-certified ACVO ophthalmologist, an OFA evaluation for patellar luxation, and an evaluation for hip dysplasia.
3. Standard Poodles are recommended for hip dysplasia testing and an eye examination by a board-certified ACVO ophthalmologist. Additionally, Standard Poodle owners may want to consider an OFA thyroid evaluation and cardiac exams.

Average Costs For Poodle Health Issues

According to Fetch Pet Insurance, the most common conditions they cover for Poodles are oral inflammation, thyroid disorders, and epilepsy. The costs associated with treating these Poodle health conditions over a lifetime are:

• Oral inflammation: $1,209 to $2,072
• Thyroid disorders: $598 – $989
• Epilepsy: $3,045 – $4,758

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many questions about the wonderful Poodle breed, and the different medical issues they have. Below, I answer some of the most often asked questions about Poodle health issues, but if I didn’t get to yours, just let me know in the comments section. I’ll be happy to find the answer for you.

Do Poodles Have Lots Of Health Issues?

While Poodles are an incredibly cuddly and friendly breed, they do have the potential for several different health concerns. However, all dog breeds have a risk and predisposition for certain medical conditions. No breed is free from all medical concerns. Addressing your pet’s health needs as they age is part of caring for all dogs.

What’s The Leading Cause Of Death in Poodles?

Sadly, a good number of Poodles develop cancer in their senior years, which leads to their death.

What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Poodle?

Poodles are fairly long-lived, with an average lifespan between 12 and 15 years. Some have been known to live 18 years or longer. Of course, this depends on each dog’s individual health, genetics, and lifestyle. Learn more about the Poodle’s lifespan in our detailed guide.

Are Poodles Prone to Neurological Problems?

Poodles can develop a neurological disease called degenerative myelopathy. Some may also develop intervertebral disc disease, which can result in nerve damage, back pain, and coordination issues. Canine epilepsy is also a neurological condition that the breed is prone to.

Keeping Your Poodle Healthy

While you cannot control your Poodle’s genetics, you can significantly impact their overall health. A healthy, active lifestyle and balanced diet go a long way for both humans and dogs. Learn more about the best dog food for Poodles of all sizes, as well as how often you should walk your dog. We have also reviewed the best dog beds and toys for Poodles. And if you are wondering how much hair these curly-coated pups lose, we’ve covered Poodle shedding in detail.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Danielle is a lifelong animal advocate and pet parent. She has over three decades of experience caring for dogs, including those with special medical and behavioral needs. Danielle has a particular passion for rescuing animals and has given several a loving home. She is a dedicated researcher committed to providing up-to-date, accurate, and relevant information to help other pet parents give their dogs the best life possible.