Health Tips for Your Dog

At Colonial Village Labradoodles, we deeply care about the health and well being of your puppy. We know there are many varying supplies and vet recommendations when it comes to taking care of your dog. Thanks to our local vet friends and personal experience, we have a few tips and supplies that we would love to recommend for you and your pup! 

Frontline is a well-known brand of topical flea and tick treatments for dogs. It helps protect dogs from infestations of fleas, ticks, and lice. Frontline products are a popular choice due to their effectiveness and ease of use, making them a reliable option for pet owners aiming to maintain their dog’s health and comfort.

Frontline Plus:

• Kills adult fleas and ticks.
• Contains Methoprone, which stops the development of flea eggs and larvae.
• Offers protection for 30 days.
• Effective against various tick species, including those that may carry Lyme disease.
•  Applied directly to the skin, usually between the dog’s shoulder blades, for maximum absorption and safety.
• Offers a full month of protection per dose.
• Waterproof: Once dried, the treatment remains effective even if your dog swims or gets wet.

Heartgard Plus is a prescription medication used to protect dogs from heartworm disease and other internal parasites.

• Administered monthly, it prevents heartworm infections by killing larvae deposited by mosquito bites before they mature.
• Treats infections of roundworms and hookworms to improve gastrointestinal health.
• Based on your dog’s weight. It’s crucial to give the correct dosage as prescribed by your veterinarian.
•  Chewable tablets are flavored to make them palatable, often resembling a treat.
• Heartworm Testing: Dogs should be tested for existing heartworm infection before starting Heartgard. Giving the medication to a heartworm-positive dog can lead to severe reactions.

Brushing your dog’s teeth– Use toothpaste formulated for dogs; human toothpaste contains xylitol and fluoride, which are toxic to dogs. A soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs or a finger brush for smaller breeds works well. Start by letting your dog taste the toothpaste. Gently touch their mouth and teeth to get them used to the sensation. Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise) to create a good association. Gently brush in small, circular motions, focusing on the outer surfaces of the teeth where plaque tends to accumulate. Pay extra attention to the back teeth, which are more prone to tartar buildup. Try and brush your dog’s teeth at least 3 times a week.

Dental Chews: Specially designed treats can help reduce plaque and tartar. Good dental hygiene can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and longevity. With consistency and the right approach, brushing your dog’s teeth can become a simple part of your routine.

Multi-generational Australian Labradoodles are a cross between many different parent breeds. The breed originated in Australia in the 1980s with the intent of creating an allergy-friendly service dog for the blind. Australian Labradoodles are a combination of a Poodle, Labrador Retriever, English Cocker Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel, and Irish Water dogs. These breeds were hand-selected for specific breed qualities to create the ideal service dog for those with allergies. Since then, the breed has continued on and spread across the world. Australian Labradoodles are now considered their own breed with its own breed clubs (ALAA and WALA).