Safety & Wellness
Veterinary Care
We are happy to give you names and numbers of references including the veterinarians we use. They will be happy to provide prospective new puppy parents with information as to the quality, general health and soundness of our poodles.
Until the puppy receives all of the necessary vaccinations (usually around 16 weeks), it is strongly advisable that the puppy not be taken to public places where other pets have been. Also, when you take your puppy to the veterinarian, please DO NOT place your puppy on the floor. We do not want your puppy to pick up any illnesses. They are very susceptible to diseases until they receive their full round of vaccinations.
Spaying & Neutering
We recommend spaying or neutering your puppy at the right age, as advised by your veterinarian. Typically, females should be spayed at about 5 to 6 months, while males should be neutered at around 6 to 8 months. Your vet can provide the best advice for your puppy.
Spaying or neutering has several benefits. It prevents unwanted pregnancies and the birth of puppies that need homes. It also helps keep your dog from wandering off in search of a mate and reduces a dog's tendency to mark their territory inside the house. Additionally, fixing your dog lowers the chances of reproductive health issues, such as tumors, infections, and certain cancers.
Health & Hygiene
Toy breeds are prone to dental problems. We highly recommend toothbrushing at a minimum of three days per week using any dog-friendly toothpaste and an infant toothbrush (regular dog toothbrushes are a little big for toy poodles).
Poodles should be groomed every 4-6 weeks to maintain health coats and good hygiene. If you did not get a grooming video from me and would like one, please let me know.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can pose a serious threat to toy breed puppies, particularly between the ages of 5 and 20 weeks. It's crucial for small dog owners to be vigilant about this condition, as it can be life-threatening. To help prevent hypoglycemia, keep Nutri-Cal® on hand; this nutrient-rich gel can help stabilize your puppy's blood sugar levels. It's advisable to administer a small amount (about an inch strip) in the morning and evening, especially during the first few weeks at home. In emergencies, light Karo syrup can also be used.
Toy breeds are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemia due to their small digestive systems, which can only store limited energy. Factors such as stress, inadequate food intake, or excessive play without snacks can lead to a drop in blood sugar. Fortunately, most puppies outgrow this condition as their organs mature.
Be on the lookout for symptoms of hypoglycemia, which may include vomiting (especially on an empty stomach), weakness, shaking, stumbling, or collapsing. In more severe instances, a puppy may become unresponsive. If you observe any of these signs, promptly give your puppy a bit of Nutri-Cal®, honey, or another sugary product, avoiding artificial sweeteners. If the puppy is too weak to swallow, rub the sugary product onto their gums. If there is no improvement within 10 to 15 minutes, seek veterinary care immediately and inform them of the possibility of hypoglycemia.
To prevent and care for your puppy, ensure they eat small, regular meals throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels. After an episode, support their recovery by encouraging them to eat, keeping them warm, and allowing them to rest. You may need to hand-feed them, and using a heating pad can help maintain their body temperature. Additionally, stress and infections can trigger hypoglycemia, so it's wise to have your vet check for underlying issues such as worms or coccidiosis. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary to treat these problems.
Safety & Training Tips
We have put together helpful tips and resources to keep your puppy safe and happy. From advice on making your home secure to handling common hazards, we have covered the basics to help you feel prepared. With these safety tips, you will be able to care for your new puppy as they grow and explore their world.
- Puppy-Proofing Tips for Your Home And Yard (AKC)
- People Foods Dogs Can and Can’t Eat (AKC)
- Dangerous Household Foods & Products (AKC)
- New Puppy Tips (Chewy)
- How to Crate Train a Puppy (AKC)
- 10 Tips to Keep Your Puppy Safe (How to Train a Dream Dog)
- A General Guide to Puppy Safety (Dog Health)
Please also keep in mind that small puppies can get hurt easily, so always keep a firm grip on them when they’re off the ground, and don’t leave them unattended on furniture or stairs. We also recommend not allowing children to carry puppies around, but encouraging them to sit on the ground with the puppy in their lap.
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