Miniature Schnauzer Breed description: Character & Co

Diseases typical for this breed

Miniature Schnauzers are robust, resilient dogs by nature and are not specifically prone to any disease. However, there are some breed-specific clinical abnormalities that you should know about. Especially common is the so-called Sicca-Syndrome, which is caused by a lack of production of tear fluid. This can result in inflammation and infection of the eyes. However, this condition is not life-threatening and can be treated well with medication (e.g. eye drops). Occasionally, cases of PRA (progressive retina atrophy) or PL (loose kneecap) may also occur. These diseases require veterinary treatment. In addition, the following diseases can be observed repeatedly in the Miniature Schnauzer:

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• elevated blood lipids
• Diabetes
• Bladder stones

With the proper care and nutrition there is no reason why a long and healthy dog life could not be provided.

Care and nutrition

The wiry, short coat of the dogs must be brushed through completely twice a week. Regular trimming at the dog groomer's is recommended. This will also remove dead hair. With a little practice and a harder brush you can also trim your dog yourself. The breed does not make any special demands regarding nutrition. These active dogs, however, require a caloric nutrition. In order not to strain the small dog's stomachs excessively, several feedings per day with smaller portions make the most sense. A good mixture of foods consists of about 70% meat, 20% vegetables and 10% carbohydrates, such as rice, for example. Every now and then a chewing bone (e.g. made of buffalo skin) can have several advantages: It keeps the dog busy and cleans its teeth at the same time.

Things to know when buying a Miniature Schnauzer

If you want to buy a Miniature Schnauzer, you should only contact a breeder who is affiliated with the Pinscher Schnauzer Club 1895. Only then you are guaranteed a Miniature Schnauzer that was bred according to the FCI standard, that the dogs have a healthy genetic pedigree and that a good socialisation has already been started in the first but crucial weeks of life. A puppy with all recommended vaccinations and preventive medical checkups costs about 1.200 Euro. An alternative and even cheaper way to find a Miniature Schnauzer are animal shelters. There, with a little luck, a Miniature Schnauzer will be waiting for a new home. For a small charge of about 200 - 300 Euro you might find your dream dog. Miniature Schnauzers are also suitable for people with dog allergies. They are considered less hypoallergenic than other dog breeds. Their short coat sheds smaller amounts of hair and produces less skin scales, which are the actual allergy triggers. However, it must be clear to all interested parties that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic.