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 Proflax 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 Proflax 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. Proflax 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 Proflax 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 Proflax 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 Proflax Omega Vital to keep eyes bright and healthy all year round.