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Schnauzer Byte: Barking

Miniature schnauzers are great watchdogs because they inherently bark at anything that moves!!

Be sure to teach your schnauzer to "be quiet" after acknowledging their alert. They learn any command fairly quickly, so this shouldn't be a problem if consistently enforced. A mini schnauzer that is not taught the "quiet" command will never shut up!

Genetic Disorders in Miniature Schnauzers

Every breed of dog has one or more genetic defects that are particular to its breed. Miniature schnauzers are no different. Genetic defects are one of the main reasons someone interested in a mini schnauzer as a pet should do their research when selecting a breeder.

The most common problem with mini schnauzers is (inherited) eye problems: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), retinal dysplasia, cataracts, blindness

Be sure that your breeder does a CERF on the sire and the dam before breeding them. Also, the puppies should be examined. If the breeder hasn't CERF'ed the puppy, be sure to take the puppy to a veterinary opthamologist within the next 2 to 3 days and then 6 months after the first visit.

Another common problem is with the endocrine system: pancreatitis, diabetes, hypothyroidism, Cushings disease Addison's disease and liver problems, such as hepatic shunts. Kidney problems: bladder stones and UTIs. These diseases can sometimes be avoided (or, at least, are less exacerbated) by feeding your mini schnauzer a good diet and keeping treats, junk food and table scraps to a bare minimum. These guys put on weight very easily and their bodies don't do well processing fats, so a wholesome diet is mandatory. Also, be sure to brush their teeth regularly.

Skin problems are also fairly common with this breed: schnauzer bumps (schnauzer comedo syndrome), skin allergies and hot spots (usually the result of poor diet and little exercise) Mini schnauzers are frequently allergic to corn, wheat and low grade meat products. So, again, diet is very important.

Some very serious health problems in miniature schnauzers are:
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The Miniature Schnauzer's Temperament

A mini schnauzer's disposition is not dependent upon its color. Whether black, salt & pepper or black & silver, the mini schnauzer is intelligent, loving and mischievous.

To have a mini schnauzer with the idea temperament, one must be sure to train and socialize the dog. Socialization of a mini schnauzer puppy cannot be emphasized enough, without it the pup can be downright mean to children, strangers and other animals. Also, train your mini schnauzer and stick with the training. Since these little dogs are so intelligent, they are constantly looking for ways to become the alpha of the family. If you let up, and they become alpha, it's a hard road to get back into control of the situation.

When trained and socialized properly, mini schnauzers are the best family companion ever. They are sensitive to your feelings, love to play, love to snuggle, are great with kids, and keep an ear/nose/eye out for who's at the door. Be sure to play with and exercise your mini schnauzer frequently. (A bored mini schnauzer is a destructive mini schnauzer.)

Genetics also have a say in the mini schnauzer's disposition. Be sure to get your pup from a breeder that raised the puppies in their house, and breeds dogs that have good temperaments to start with.

Why the miniature schnauzer rocks

Here's why I think mini schnaus are so great:
They are so freakin' intelligent
I like to watch the eyebrow action on a mini schnauzer deep in thought. And, training a mini schnauzer? They will test the limit to no end; tell them to "sit" and they will see if they can get a reward for "almost" sitting. Tell them to "fetch the ball" and they will try to see what will happen if they bring the bunny, instead.

They love to be little helpers—ever present where ever you are.
Trying to use the bathroom? They want to pass you the toilet paper. Trying to shower? They'll wash your feet. Trying to use the computer? They want to help type. Trying to read? They wanna know what you are reading. Trying to cook? They want to sample the dish, or "clean up" the kitchen floor. Trying to walk? They think it's easier for you if they walk between your feet.Trying to nap? Scoot over, you can't nap alone. My Nixie woke me up, told me when someone was at the door, kept track of mealtimes, let me know when it was time for a break, and when it was time for bed. She was my little personal assistant.

They are sensitive to your moods and emotions.
You can't cry without a beard in your face, trying to see what they can to to make it better. My hubby suddenly developed atrial fibrillation in his mid-thirties. Our mini schnau laid with her head on his chest the entire time, occasionally getting up to peer into his eyes or smell his breath. She would look at me as to say "Something is wrong with dad!".

The schnauzer dance.
No, really, it is worth having a mini schnauzer just to see the dance. They frequently like to use a sock as a prop.

The miniature schnauzer sense of humor.
Nothing wakes you up like a wet beard on the neck. Nothing surprises a guest more than you, naked, chasing down the pup who grabbed and ran with your underpants as you were trying to put them on. Bent over to put clothes in the dryer? Watch out for a push from behind.

Their energy.
I keep checking for the battery compartment, because they have the Duracell Bunny beat.

Their low-shed coat.
Less hair/shedding means less allergies.

Their willingness to please.
If you ain't happy, they ain't happy. A scolded schnauzer is a repentant schnauzer.