Before adopting Toy Poodle

What to check before adopting

• Coat care and grooming

  Medium

  With a single coat, shedding is minimal; however, since the coat grows continuously, regular grooming is essential. Confirm whether you can sustain the effort and cost of grooming.

• Attention to patellar luxation (patella)

  High

  This is a knee joint issue common in small breeds. Environmental consideration such as using non-slip flooring and avoiding high steps helps prevent this. Check the parent's joint condition, and consult a veterinarian if you notice any bouncy or hopping gait.

• Temperament, training, and exercise

  Medium

  While intelligent with high learning motivation, they require exercise and mental play. Confirm whether you can provide daily training and play time, and whether they were raised in an environment with socialization consideration.

• Checking for predisposed health conditions

  High

  Genetic conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are known. Check the parent's genetic testing results and health information, and consult a veterinarian about any concerning symptoms such as eye abnormalities.

Key points to check

Checking knees and gait

Good:

Walks straight on all four legs with no bouncy or skipping gait.

Caution:

Occasionally lifting the hind legs or a skipping gait can be a sign of patellar luxation; consult a veterinarian if you notice this.

Checking coat and skin

Good:

Coat is not matted; skin has no redness, flaking, or odor.

Caution:

Matting, dandruff, or scratching suggests possible skin issues. Check this along with the grooming status.

Checking temperament and socialization with people

Good:

Approaches people without hesitation, allows calm handling, and shows curiosity.

Caution:

Excessive fearfulness or biting may indicate insufficient socialization; confirm the rearing environment.

Pre-adoption checklist quiz

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