TERRIPOO

Care

Exercise

Terripoo is a small dog and meets its exercise requirements indoors. But it should be taken outdoors a few times a day. Small walks twice a day with an adequate amount of playtime will be sufficient for the dog. Dog park visits, playing catch, hiking, and swimming can be included in the exercise schedule. They like to play with toys and balls for hours which provides mental stimulation and keeps the dog engaged in the activity. Without adequate exercise, the dog will become depressed and unhealthy, therefore exercising for minimum 45 minutes a day crucial.

Grooming

They can have a different type of fur depending upon the coat inherited from its parents. The poodle has a curly and silky hair while the terrier has a medium to the long coat which is harsh and wiry. The owner will need to brush the dog regularly to prevent excessive shedding and matting. Visiting professional groomers once in two months will keep their bushy hair manageable. A dog with wiry coat will need stripping with a stripping tool once every six weeks. Ideal brush for Terripoo is Pin Brush, Slicker Brush, Clipper, and comb.

Additionally, its droopy ears will retain moisture and wax which needs cleaning every week to prevent painful ear infection. Nails will require trimming two to three times a week with a nail clipper to maintain its length. Teeth brushing every 2 to 3 days will avert tartar collection and tooth decay.

Health Problems

Crossbreed are known to suffer from health problems inherited from its parents. This breed is generally healthy and is not known to suffer from many diseases. However, it may face some of the problems mentioned below.

Major Problems:          

• Mitral Valve Disease
• Diabetes

Minor Problems:

• Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)
• Skin Diseases and Disorders

Occasional Test:

• Blood and Urine Tests
• Eye Examination
• Cardiac Test
• Diagnostic Imaging
• DNA

Occasional Diagnosis:

• Addison’s Disease
• Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

However, occasional tests mentioned above and random veterinarian checkups will keep the dog healthy and fit. Before buying the puppy, ask the breeder about its parent's history of health problems.

Training

It is not very easy to train this dog and as a result early and proper socialization is essential as it might have a dominating attitude. The trainer should establish a firm leadership otherwise the dog will assume it is the leader of the pack. It requires obedience training also to keep its mind active. A very consistent and firm trainer is essential to train this dog who can introduce difficult progressive levels of agility training. Treats and toys will motivate the dog to learn things faster.

Feeding

Manufactured dog food which has ingredients like turkey meat or chicken, eggs, peas, fruits, etc is ideal for the dog. To prevent food allergies, owners can opt for homemade food. Feeding the dog vegetable mix-carrots, string beans, spinach, peas, fruit mix- banana raspberries, blueberries, grains-quinoa, barley and pasta, meats-chicken breasts and turkey meats will help to keep up with its energy requirement. Dry dog food for an adult should be ½ to 1 cup segregated into two halves will ensure perfect digestion.