By Brent Mayabb, DVM

Printable Version

With four colors and three distinct sizes, the poodle is one of the most diverse breeds in terms of appearance. However, in terms of physiology, poodles are strikingly similar. Poodles have distinct traits such as the ever-recognized coat, their superior intelligence, and increased longevity. Royal Canin Poodle 30 has been designed to provide specialized nutrition for these wonderful pets.

The coat and skin of the poodle is perhaps his most famous feature. Considered to be "non-shedding" dogs, the coat of the poodle is made up primarily of secondary hairs. These are the fine hairs that accompany the primary hairs in the follicle that grow continuously. Another characteristic of the hair is its curliness. With such a distinct, we can provide very specialized nutrition to help maintain it. Since the hair grows continuously, much of the daily protein intake is used for the coat. Poodle 30 contains a high level of highly-digestible protein (30%) for this growth. Additionally, the sulfur-containing amino acids that help give the hair its distinct curl have been added. Our "Skin Barrier" complex of vitamins and an amino acid has been added to help reinforce the skin's barrier function.

Poodles are one of the longest-lived and most intelligent breeds. As the dog ages, oxidative damage to the cells occurs. Of particular concern are the eyes and cognitive function. While the aging process can't be stopped, our goal is to reduce the effects and slow the process. To combat the effects of oxidative damage, Poodle 30 contains a synergistic group of antioxidants. In addition to our powerful antioxidants for longevity, lutein and zeaxanthine have been added to help protect the eye from free radical damage.

Another age-related issue seen in poodles is osteoarthritis. Although arthritis has long been considered a disease that affects large breed dogs, we are now ?nding small breed dogs suffer from it as well. To help protect articular cartilage and preserve joint function, Poodle 30 contains glucosamine and chondroitin. These supplements help stimulate the synthesis of collagen and slow the degradation of cartilage.

Oral hygiene is area that presents a special challenge with Poodles. In some poodles tartar can appear as early as four years of age. To limit the formation of plaque, Poodle 30 has a unique kibble that has been developed to both slow down ingestion (and thus force more chewing), and to exert a brushing effect on the teeth as the dog chews. These actions are coupled with a calcium-binding agent that sequesters calcium in the mouth and reduces formation of tartar. The calcium is released once in the intestinal tract for normal absorption.

Although very diverse as a breed, poodles share many common traits. Owners love the breed because of its wonderful temperament, its beautiful coat, its longevity, as well as many other reasons. Royal Canin is proud to have designed Poodle 30 to address the unique needs of poodles nutritionally.