Newfypoo Breed Maintenance
It’s likely you’ll need to brush your Newfypoo daily to prevent matting and to remove any loose hair or debris. This is because the coat of the Newfoundland is known to be a magnet for dirt and debris, and the coat of the Poodle may require frequent trimming or clipping due to its continual growth.
They’ll only need a bath every couple of months unless they have rolled in something smelly. The folded down or hanging ears of the Newfypoo should also be checked on a regular basis to ensure that they are clean and dry. You should also trim their nails and brush their teeth regularly.
Newfypoo health
The Newfypoo can develop health issues from both parent breeds — here are some of the health conditions you need to be aware of.
- Cataracts
- Canine Hip Dysplasia
- Sebaceous Adenitis
- Subaortic Stenosis
- Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
There’s also a chance of entropion, ectropion, cherry eye, retinal dysplasia, pemphigus foliaceus, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and mitral valve dysplasia — although these are considered only minor concerns.
As there are a number of health conditions your Newfypoo can get, it’s important to have a good insurance policy. Browse and compare top pet insurance providers to find the best option for you and your dog.
Cataracts
Cataracts is one of the most common eye problems in dogs and particularly common in the Miniature and Standard Poodle. It can occur in one or both eyes and happens when the lens of the eye is unable to hydrate properly, which makes it become cloudy. This can result in complete loss of vision and, if you don’t get it treated, it can lead to glaucoma. The only treatment is surgery.
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD)
Hip dysplasia can happen in one of both hip joints. It’s an inherited condition that can occur at any age. It happens when the ball and socket haven't formed properly, so they rub and grind together rather than gliding smoothly. This will restrict the dogs movement and be very painful for them. Treatment might include oral supplements, physiotherapy or surgery.
Sebaceous Adenitis
Sebaceous adenitis is most common in the Standard Poodle. It’s a rare but hereditary skin disease that can be treated but sadly has no cure. It occurs when there is an issue with the sebaceous glands which are found at the hair follicles. The result can be crusty, itchy skin and significant hair loss. This usually starts at the head and neck.
Subaortic Stenosis
Subaortic stenosis usually affects larger breeds and one of the breeds most commonly affected is the Newfoundland. This is typically discovered at birth but is likely to get worse as the dog gets older. It’s caused by the narrowing of the outlet in the heart, under the aortic valve.
The heart has to work harder and as a result strain is put on the cardiovascular system. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, fainting, and lethargy. Surgery may be required but medication such as beta blockers is likely to be prescribed first.
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
Bloat or Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) tends to affect larger dogs with the Standard Poodle being one of the breeds most at risk. It means the stomach has dilated and potentially even rotated. The risk of bloating increases with age.
Symptoms to look out for include a bloated abdomen, stretching frequently, a fast heart rate and breathing rapidly. As soon as you suspect this you need to get your pup to the vet because this can progress very quickly and is life-threatening. lean and dry. You should also trim their nails and brush their teeth regularly.
Feeding a Newfypoo — what’s the best diet?
Your Newfypoo dog needs to be fed with food that’s specifically formulated for large to giant breeds. Due to their size they’ll eat a large amount of food. Make sure they have a healthy diet with food that’s rich in protein. Food high in calcium will help to prevent issues with their bones. It’s beneficial for them to have wet food, although this can be mixed with dry food.
As mentioned, this crossbreed can develop bloat. To decrease the risk you should avoid exercising them straight after they have eaten. You may also want to use a slow feeder to encourage them to eat slowly and you could elevate their bowls off the floor. A diet that is low in sodium can also help to prevent heart problems such as subaortic stenosis that this crossbreed is prone to.
Newfypoo puppies should be fed up to four times a day and this can then be reduced to three times a day for adults. Due to the risk of bloat, it’s better to serve several smaller meals rather than a couple of larger meals. Treats are beneficial, especially when training — but keep an eye on how much you are giving them.
Wondering what to feed your Newfypoo? Take a look at the advice from our friends at Dog Food Advisor, including the best dog food for Poodles and the best large breed dog food.