How to Take Care of Poodle Puppies

White Poddle Puppy

Poodles are a highly intelligent breed of dog, make loyal pets and are great with children. Officially, poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard. Teacup poodles are also available, but are not an official American Kennel Club (AKC) size. Poodles can range in color from black to red to apricot to white, and are typically solid colors, though their markings are not unusual. With proper care, poodles can live for more than 15 years. The secret to having a healthy poodle for many years is correct care, starting when it is a puppy.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton balls
• Dog toys
• Honey

Instructions

1. Feed your poodle puppy a nutritious diet. Do not feed him table scraps or change his diet suddenly, since this can upset your puppy's stomach and cause him to gain too much weight.

2. Clean your poodle puppy's ears weekly using a moist cotton ball wrapped around your finger. Any redness or swelling may indicate an ear infection, so notify your vet immediately if you notice any changes in the appearance of your puppy's ear.

3. Provide your poodle puppy with plenty of play toys, especially if you are not around. Poodles are a very intelligent and curious breed. If they are left alone with nothing to do, they may become bored and depressed.

4. Drizzle 1/2 tbsp. of honey in your poodle puppy's mouth if you are concerned that she has low blood sugar. Low blood sugar is common in small breeds, since they have a fast metabolism. If your puppy refuses to eat, she may develop low blood sugar. A veterinarian should be contacted if the puppy refuses to eat for more than 12 hours.

5. Start house-training your poodle puppy as soon as he is old enough to easily walk. Since poodles are so intelligent, they are typically housebroken within a few months. Remember, your puppy cannot control his bladder or bowels for long periods of time. To figure out the maximum length of time your poodle puppy can hold his bladder, take his age in months and add 1. If your puppy is 3 months old, his maximum length of time is 4 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a dog diaper during playtime until your poodle puppy is house-trained, to avoid accidents.

• Even when provided with plenty of toys, poodle puppies may chew on household items. Puppy-proof your house to avoid having your belongings destroyed or having your poodle puppy chew on something dangerous.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• American Kennel Club- Poodle Breed Standards