Did you ever wonder why two dogs of the same breed will produce puppies with similar characteristics? Years ago, a monk named Gregor Mendel studied this wonder, using garden peas for his experiment.  He found that characteristics are inherited according to certain fixed patterns and that taken on the average over large numbers, these patterns are rigid and relatively unswerving. These are known as the laws of inherited factors and the study devoted to them is called genetics.

When the question of breeding puppies is being considered, it is important that the pedigrees of both sire and dam be carefully studied. This will help to obviate as far as possible the breeding of hybrids, which in turn will breed mis-marks. These observations also apply to color, temperament, soundness, coat quality and many other attributes. 

Health screening assists a breeder in analyzing breeding stock for health strengths and weaknesses. If an inheritable disease is found the dog will not be bred. "For diseases that are limited to phenotypic evaluations, there are no guarantees. However, the probability that an animal will develop an inherited disease is reduced when its ancestry has been tested normal. Further, as more DNA tests become available and the results are entered into CHIC (Canine Health Information Center), the CHIC database will be able to establish whether progeny will be clear, carriers, or affected." - CHIC

All OFA and CERF test results for my breeding stock may be verified online through the CHIC database. Please click the following link to search test results: www.caninehealthinfo.org.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) - CERF
• DNA test for the PRCD form of PRA - Optigen 
• Patellar Luxation - OFA
• Hypothyroidism

Ear Infections: "Ears should be cleaned weekly. Gently pull the long hairs out of the ear canal regularly, and swab the ear canal with your finger wrapped in cotton moistened with ear cleaner recommended by your Vet or Groomer. If your Poodle is scratching its ears or the ears have a bad odor, see your vet immediately." - PCA

Epiphora: Shallow tear wells leads to a tear overflow down the face, a condition called epiphora. The subsequent red-brown staining of the fur from tear pigments is felt to be unsightly and many owners use the Angel Eyes® product. This product contains Tylosin, which will destroy the yeast that causes the discoloration.

• Avoccados
• Chocolate
• Strings
• Ibuprophen
• Pennies
• Onions
• Antifreeze
• Xylitol
• Raisins or Grapes
• Glue
• Swimming Pools
• Many House Plants

 ASPCA PET POISON CONTROL HOTLINE: 1-888-426-4435 (Charge of $60 to speak with a vet)

• Currently there are 61 Poison Centers in the United States. When you dial the number below, your call is routed to the Poison Center that serves your area. The call is toll free, and works from anywhere in the United States.

 POISON CONTROL HOTLINE: 1-800-222-1222 (FREE)