Nutrition for Poodles

Poodles are a breed of dog famed for the woolly appearance of their coat and their sharp intelligence. They originated in Germany where they were used as a gun dog or retriever, retrieving game on land or jumping into the water. The German word "pudle" from which "poodle" is derived literally means "to splash about." Poodles are very obedient and are ideal dogs for shows and come in standard, miniature and toy sizes.

  1. General

    • Poodles -- like any dog -- need a balanced nutritious diet to be healthy. Any balanced diet for poodles will include a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, fats, minerals and vitamins. Poodles have small stomachs so need regular feeding in small portions. When considering how to feed your poodle take into account its age, reproductive status, size and activity level.

    Puppies

    • Growing poodle puppies will need to be treated differently from fully grown poodles. It's important to ensure they eat enough protein, calcium, minerals and phosphorus. Check the labels of tinned foods to select foods rich in these elements. Puppies have lots of energy but very small stomachs so will need more regular feedings than adult poodles -- about four to five meals a day will be needed until they are 3 months old. From 3 to 5 months three to four meals is ideal and after that they should eat as regularly as an adult with about three meals a day.

    Adult

    • Adult poodles will enjoy dry foods, tinned foods, bones, fresh meat and plenty of fresh water. Dry foods are usually bulkier and can make the poodle feel fuller while many owners prefer a mix of dry food and tinned foods, which taste better for the poodle. Some poodle owners prefer the BARF diet (Bones and Raw Food) although this method can be expensive and time-consuming. Try to treat your poodle as well with such items as knuckle bones, pig's ears, tripe sticks, dried liver and other tasty chews. Not only will your dog enjoy this variation to its diet but the chewing is good for its health and teeth.

    Avoid

    • There are some foods you should never feed your poodle such as cooked bones or bones that can easily fracture. Chocolate should never be fed to a poodle and try to avoid table scraps as well, as many human foods are highly processed and can be harmful to dogs. Also avoid feeding poodles artificial sweeteners, processed sugars, grapes, raisins and onions.