Toy Dogs

Typical Breeds: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Toy dogs typically weigh less than 5.5 kg (12 lbs). Common health issues are joints, heart, eye and respiration, due to their small stature. Below are some of the typical health issues Toy Dogs face, along with recommended Proflax supplement suggestions to help alleviate these problems.

Recommended Supplements

  • Dental Issues

    Toy breeds are notorious for dental problems, which can result in overcrowded teeth and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene. This can lead to gum disease, tooth decay/loss and bad breath. Exacerbating factors for dental issues can be feeding a soft diet, such as wet dog food, which can contribute to plaque build-up, increasing the risk of dental disease. Consider non-splintering bones and suitable dental supplements such as Plaque Patrol to reduce plaque/tartar build up or dental problems.

  • Patellar Luxation

    Patellar luxation is a common issue in toy dogs where the kneecap dislocates or shifts out of its normal position. This can cause pain, lameness, or an abnormal gait. Exacerbating factors are dogs who carry excess weight, as this can place additional strain on the knees, making the problem worse. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weakened muscles and joints, making this condition more severe. Incorporate daily gentle and regular exercise, maintain a healthy diet and feed musculoskeletal support products such as Bone & Joint, Mega Mobility or Omega Bounce.

  • Tracheal Problems

    Tracheal conditions occur when the rings of cartilage in the windpipe weaken which can lead to difficulty breathing, a honking cough, and in severe cases, respiratory distress. Using a collar and lead, especially if the dog pulls or jerks, can exacerbate this condition, so a harness is recommended to reduce strain on the trachea. In addition, overweight dogs will experience increased pressure on the respiratory system, which can worsen the symptoms. Mega Mobility with the inclusion vegan Glucosamine will help to strengthen and support cartilage

  • Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

    Toy breeds like the Pug or Shih Tzu, which are brachycephalic (short-nosed), are susceptible to airway problems, leading to difficulty breathing, snoring, and overheating. Hot weather can exacerbate breathing difficulties and strenuous exercise can trigger respiratory distress, so moderation is key. Keep your dog cool and feed Immunity & Vitality or Omega Vital to maintain healthy immune respiratory systems.

  • Heart Conditions

    Some toy breeds such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are prone to mitral valve disease, a progressive heart condition that leads to heart failure. To maintain the health of the heart and keep blood pressure normal, feed a diet low in sodium. Maintaining a healthy weight is important so provide regular and gentle exercise to keep the cardiovascular system in tip-top condition. Feed Healthy Heart a few times a week to maintain heart health

  • Eye Problems

    Toy breeds often suffer from eye problems due to their prominent eyes or specific breeding. Common issues include dry eye, cataracts, and corneal ulcers. Dust, wind, and environmental allergens can cause irritation or infections and protruding eyes are more prone to injury, so care should be taken during playtime or rough handling. Make sure to keep eyes clean and feed Omega Vital to keep eyes bright and healthy all year round.

What can cause these health issues?

Diet Diet plays a crucial role in managing and preventing many health issues.
A diet that is too high in calories or lacks essential nutrients can lead to weight gain, exacerbating conditions like patellar luxation, tracheal issues or heart disease. Similarly, diets lacking in dental-friendly foods or natural supplement options may increase the risk of oral conditions such as periodontitis. Feeding toy dogs a balanced diet in small, frequent meals is essential.


Environment The environment toy dogs are raised in can also have a significant impact on their health.
For instance, living in hot, humid climates can exacerbate breathing difficulties, particularly in brachycephalic breeds. Urban environments with limited space for exercise can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of obesity or joint problems. Additionally, homes with stairs or slippery floors can pose risks for toy dogs prone to joint issues like patellar luxation. Ensuring a toy dog breed has a safe, comfortable environment with suitable bedding, limited access to high places, and appropriate exercise opportunities is vital for their complete health and well-being.

Social Factors Toy dogs are often highly sociable and reliant on human companionship.
Separation anxiety is common, and when left alone for long periods, they can experience stress, which can lead to destructive behaviour, excessive barking, or even physical symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea. Lack of socialisation, either with humans or other dogs, can also affect their mental well-being, leading to behavioural issues and, in some cases, even exacerbating physical health problems like hypoglycaemia due to stress. Proflax Calm & Collected or Omega Calm help to alleviate varying levels of anxiety and Tummy Tastic keeps nervous tummies settled.

Recommended Supplements

Recommended Supplements For Toy Breeds