About
There are three Schnauzer breeds; Giant, Standard and Miniature with the size of the dog being the main distinguisher between them.
Originally bred for catching and killing vermin, they have also been used throughout the last 600 years as guard dogs, for herding livestock, and for pulling small carts.
A Schnauzer’s giveaway feature is its whiskers and they often appear to have a moustache or a beard!
Health
Schnauzers were originally bred to be strong, working dogs. Because of this, they tend to be healthy dogs overall.
That being said, there are still health issues to watch out for especially when looking at the Minature breed including:
Hip Dysplasia
Symptoms: vomiting, poor appetite, fever, blood in urine
A common issue for many breeds, Hip Dysplasia can result in issues impacting the hip joints and cause problems with a dog’s mobility.
Pancreatitis
Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, reduced appetite
An ailment that many choose to combat with a low-fat diet as this can be a serious problem and is common with Schnauzers
Kidney Stones
Symptoms: imbalance, problems running or jumping, fatigue, collapse
Prevalent in Minature Schnauzers and important to get checked out as Kidney Stones can be fatal when left untreated.
Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) and some eye conditions can also be prevelant but testing prior to breeding programs can eradicate these issues.
Appearance
Across the three variations of Schnauzer, their height can vary greatly ranging from as small as 30cm to over 70cm tall!
Giant Schnauzers tend to be taller than 60cm and Minature’s are around 38cm or shorter.
Schnauzers can come in a variety of colours but you’ll most commonly see pepper and salt, and all black pups.
White and brown varieties are becoming more popular and you’ll see combinations of these colours on many dogs
Behaviour
Schnauzer’s don’t have any extraordinary behavioural issues but they can be quite vocal and you may find their barking becomes a problem.
Because Schnauzers were bred as working dogs, they have quite a lot of energy and need exercising well.
The Miniature breed tends to struggle more with separation anxiety and owners may find Minature Schnauzers acting up more when left with a dog sitter or at a kennel.
Friendly with Children
Friendly with Dogs
Separation Anxiety
Happy with Strangers
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A fantastic Yorkshire based business that specialises in handmade collars, leads and accessories!
Huge fans of the Schnauzer with two on staff (Moo Moo and Bear) they are also behind the National Schnauzer Day!
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