The Irish Doodle’s health issues are less common. But it’s a reality that life and health are accompanied but diseases. The Irish Doodle, a rather beautiful mix of Irish Setters and Poodles, is well known for its wisdom, endearing attitude, and energetic lifestyle. Like all other breeds, however, this one is also vulnerable to health issues.
If you have an idea of owning an Irish Doodle, you cannot overlook the point that the dog may suffer from ear infections and hip dysplasia in both its puppy/adult health issues. This would allow a dog owner to take some preventive measures or handle their Irish Doodles happily and promptly.
Most Common Irish Doodle Health Issues
While it is observed that the Irish Doodles are generally a healthy breed, but also inherit some health issues from their parent breeds. Below are the most common Irish Doodle health issues:
Hip Dysplasia
This is one of the most common Irish Doodle health issues. The symptoms are:
- Limping
- Restlessness and uncomfortability
- Stiffness
- Swollen Hip area
- Difficulty standing
- Avoiding exercise
The preventions are:
- Look for reputable breeders who screen for hip dysplasia
- Manage weight to avoid stress on the hip
- Consult your vet for joint supplements
- Avoid heavy exercises
Ear Infections
Inherited from Poodles, Irish Poodles’ drooping ears make them vulnerable to ear infections. Ear infections can result from moisture or water penetration inside the ear.
The common symptoms are:
- Ear scratching
- Head Shaking
- Bad smell from the ear
- Red and inflamed ear
- Fluid discharge
- Wax buildup
Check this: How to Train an Irish Doodle: Step-by-Step Guide
The possible preventions are:
- Dry their ear properly after bathing or swimming
- Regularly clean ears by vet-approved methods
- Trim your dog’s ear hair carefully
- Schedule a vet visit to prevent infections
Allergies and Skin Issues
Another crucial health issue of Irish Doodles is allergies and skin issues. This can be season-dependent and diet-related. The prevention measures are:
- Provide it with a clean and dirt-free environment to live in
- Give it a healthy diet that has safe ingredients.
- Use hypoallergenic shampoo or detergent
- Consult your vet for testing allergies.
Bloating
Though it is a less common issue in Irish Doodles, it rarely happens. It is a condition where gases are trapped in the stomach. The signs of bloating are:
- Stiff abdomen
- Restlessness and irritability
- Some vomiting
- Difficulty in breathing
Read more here: The Ultimate Guide with Pros and Cons of Irish Doodles
The prevention is:
- Small feed at one time
- Small frequent meals
- Swallow slowly
- Preferably wet food
Puppy/Adult Health Issues
The health issues of Irish Doodle puppies and adults differ significantly depending on size and age. Below is what to expect at different ages:
Puppy Health Issues
Below are the common health issues of the puppies:
Parvovirus and Distemper
This health issue arises because of no vaccination. Visit your vet for and vaccination schedule.
Parasites and Worms
The various types of worms, like hookworm, roundworm, and fleas, are common in Irish Doodle puppies. Consult your vet for regular deworming and flea control techniques.
Click for more: Understanding the Core Temperament of the Irish Doodle
Teething Problems
In the teething phase, puppies develop gum-itching and digestion problems. Give your puppies soft chew toys and provide them with oral health and cleanliness.
Adult Health Issues
As Irish Doodles age, they face some chronic issues like any other dog breed:
- Arthritis
- Hypothyroidism
- Heart Problems
- Diabetes
- Neurological disorders
The prevention and treatment are:
- Quarterly vet checkups
- Quarterly Blood tests
- Maintain an exercise routine
- Give them senior senior-specific diet
- Preferably, a vet-recommended diet
- Give them a comfortable living environment.
How to Prevent Irish Doodle Health Issues
It is a common saying that ‘prevention is better than cure’. Prevention keeps your Irish Doodle flourishing and enjoying good health. Below are the health tips that every pet owner should follow:
Regular Vet Care
-
- Annual or semi-annual thorough examination.
- Vaccination
- Parasite prevention
- Dental Cleaning
- Proper Hygiene
Healthy Diet
A balanced and healthy diet improves health and strengthens the immune system. The diet should contain:
- High-quality proteins
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Probiotics
Avoid fillers and preservatives, or some additives. Consult your vet to get a recommended diet, keeping in view the dog’s age and health issues.
Regular Exercise
Irish Doodles are a breed that is renowned for its energetic lifestyle. They need active physical and mental activities. Without exercise or physical activity, they feel bored and may become lethargic and also overweight. This ultimately gives rise to puppy/adult health issues. Provide them with some activities like:
- Take them on a walk with you
- Go on hiking occasionally
- Agility games like fetch, etc
- Training drills
- Puzzle toys
Hygiene and Grooming
Proper hygiene is necessary for the prevention of ear infections, and grooming prevents skin issues. The checklist for grooming and hygiene is:
- Brush coat 2 to 3 times a week to prevent matting
- Bath every 2 to 3 weeks.
- Trim nails at least once a month
- Clean ears every week
- Teeth Brush daily
Home Take Words
The Irish Doodle health issues include ear infections, hip dysplasia, and puppy/adult health issues are alarming. At first, it’s alarming but easily manageable if timely and early diagnosed. If we maintain a healthy diet, regular vet visits, and proper care, this will keep Irish Doodles’ health issues away. Along with this, always avoid backyard breeders and get an Irish Doodle puppy from a responsible and reputable breeder who offers health screening.
