Irish Doodle is a charming combination of Irish Setter and Poodle. It has gained massive popularity since the beginning of the 21st century. This hybrid hound makes a unique companionship with owners and kids, who are loyal, intelligent, and highly trainable dogs. 

They inherit a curiosity from Poodle’s parents and a charming appearance from Irish Setter. Despite their striking look and high intelligence, Irish doodles may be prone to some health concerns. This post will discuss Irish doodle health issues and tips to prevent these concerns. So, be with us to embark on a journey of Irish doodle health issues.

Understanding the Irish Doodle

Irish Doodle is a deliberate hybrid breed of two elegant purebreds, an Irish setter and a Standard Poodle. Irish Doodle, the great traits from their parents, resulting in a loyal, intelligent, beautiful, and highly trainable dog. 

Irish Doodle comes in various coat colors like red, black, apricot, and creamy, but red is famous. The coat texture of Irish Doodle depends on the expected lineage of purebred parents. A curly Irish doodle tends to inherit more genes of a Poodle, while the Irish Setter lineage makes it wavy.

Irish Doodle health issues

Typically, Irish Doodle is a hybrid dog and tends to be healthy with minimum health risks. The reason is that a hybrid dog like the Irish Doodle results from artificial breeding, so breeders focus on reducing the contaminated genes during breeding.

A young dog like an Irish doodle puppy or an Irish Wolfadoodle puppy has more chance of being contaminated with health issues.

Despite all precautions, Irish Doodles inherit some health concerns from their parents, either Poodle or Irish Setter. Here is the comprehensive overview of the Irish doodle health issues:

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is not only a common health issue in Irish doodles but also in other dogs. It impacts the hip joints and reduces the dog’s mobility. The reason for hip dysplasia is the improper development of hip joints or dislocation of hip bones. The common symptoms of this disease are pain, discomfort, disturbances in mobility, limping, and many more. 

To reduce the chances of hip dysplasia, it is paramount to ensure that breeders have held screening tests before breeding. Moreover, proper exercise and weight management are the best practices to reduce hip dysplasia. 

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is considered the sister of elbow dysplasia but with limited variation. Elbow dysplasia impacts the elbow joints, reducing mobility and other activities. It causes pain and lameness in dogs, so it is important to cure them prematurely. 

Proper screening, exercise, and regular veterinary checkups may help reduce elbow dysplasia. Smaller versions of hybrid dogs like mini Irish doodles are more prone to elbow dysplasia.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA, is a combination of eye issues in dogs that may result in vision loss, night blindness, and many more. PRA is a genetic disease in the Irish Doodle due to the lineage of the Irish Setter. 

Obtaining health screening tests from a reputable breeder is mandatory to reduce the risks of PRA. Moreover, schedule veterinary eye checkups to indicate progressive retinal atrophy. 

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

Blot is a stomach condition in deep-chested dogs that may even result in sudden death. Bloat occurs when the stomach of your Irish Doodle twisted on itself, reducing the blood flow. This disease’s most common symptoms are difficulty breathing, discomfort, distended abdomen, and vomiting. If you find these symptoms in your dog, consult a veterinarian. 

To reduce the risks of bloat, try to feed your dog more frequent meals and avoid robust exercise after feeding. 

Ear Infections

Irish Doodles owe their endearing floppy ears to their Irish Setter and Poodle heritage. However, these charming features can also make them susceptible to ear infections and allergies. The lack of proper air circulation and sunlight in these ears can lead to moisture buildup and debris.

 If you notice your furry friend shaking their head or showing discomfort, seek prompt veterinary care for professional treatment. Your dog’s health and comfort are worth it.

Skin Allergies

Irish doodles have curly and wavy coats, which may develop allergies and skin infections if not properly groomed. The common symptoms of skin allergies include itching, skin irritation, discomfort, and redness. 

The reason for skin allergies in Irish doodles includes improper food, environmental conditions, and insect bites. To reduce skin issues, feed proper foods and prevent insect attacks by providing clean environmental conditions.

Dental Problems

Irish Doodle inherits unique teeth from its purebred parents. These teeth may develop tartar and cavities if not properly cleaned. Moreover, Irish Doodles may be susceptible to gums issues, especially swollen gums. The common symptoms of teeth or gum infections include discomfort and difficulty in eating. 

To prevent dental concerns in your dog, brushing and providing dental chews and toys is mandatory. 

Hypothyroidism

It is an Irish doodle health issues in which thyroid glands do not produce sufficient hormones, resulting in a fatty, lazy dog with maximum skin issues. The common symptoms of this disease include weight gain, high sugar levels, and lethargy.

Consult a veterinarian if you notice hypothyroidism in your Irish doodles.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in hybrid hounds, especially Irish doodles. Truly, epilepsy may be controlled with close mental and physical stimulation, but consulting a veterinarian is mandatory. 

Heart Conditions

Heart attack is the most common health risk among all other Irish doodle health issues. It is due to the lineage of Irish settlers. Heart issues like mitral valve disease may even cause sudden death.

To minimize heart conditions in Irish doodles, it is paramount to consult a veterinarian for a deep checkup. However, regular exercise and a balanced diet impact greatly to minimize heart concerns.

Preventive Measures for Irish Doodle Health Issues

To minimize Irish doodle health issues, follow these health tips:

Conclusion for Irish Doodle Health Issues

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the unique traits and Irish doodle health issues, a beloved hybrid breed. It is crucial to be aware of common health concerns and take preventative measures for them to make wonderful companions. Even so, they can be a great friend to you. Responsible breeding, regular veterinary care, and proper nutrition are key to ensuring your Irish Doodle’s happy and healthy life. Stay informed, proactive, and attentive to your dog’s needs to enjoy a long-lasting bond with your furry friend.