Schnauzers are a very charming dog breed but sometimes people ask why schnauzers are the worst dogs.
In this blog I will tell you why schnauzers are the worst dog breeds despite being so adorable and cute.
I will discuss the health related issues in schnauzers, his physical requirements, grooming needs and their stubborn nature.
I will also discuss issues such as excessive barking, aggressive and independent behaviour and how expensive it is to maintain schnauzers.
Health Issues in Schnauzers
Like many dog breeds, schnauzers are also prone to many health issues which the owner needs to be aware of.
Some health conditions are genetic while others are caused by lack of care and lifestyle problems.
Health conditions which they might face are mentioned below.
- Hip/elbow dysplasia
- Glaucoma
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Skin allergies
- Ear infections
- Pancreatitis
- Urinary stones
- Cataracts
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Hypothyroidism
- Myotonia Congenita
To Prevent any Health Issues in Schnauzers
Take schnauzers to a veterinarian regularly for routine check-ups, which will help in early detection of any medical issue in them.
Feed schnauzers a healthy and balanced diet which have all nutrients which they need and feed high quality dog food.
Be a responsible dog owner and prioritise your dog’s health and well being above all and make sure to check breeders when buying schnauzers puppy.
High Physical and Mental Stimulation Requirements
Schnauzers are known for spirited and lively nature and have high energy and are ideal pets for people and families having an active lifestyle.
First time dog owners might get overwhelmed by the energy levels of schnauzers and they need a more calmed and relaxed dog breed.
High energy is good and a positive attribute in schnauzers but maintaining and channelling the energy can be challenging.
Daily exercise for 60-90 minutes, will help him thrive and will prevent boredom and mischiefs.
Walking, jogging, hiking, playing fetch, pole flirting, swimming or agility training all these activities you can do with schnauzers to wear them out.
They also need mental stimulation otherwise they will engage in destructive behaviour such chewing clothes or furniture, digging holes etc.
Interactive games, obedience training, food puzzles, scent training or solving problems will help to keep them busy mentally.
Grooming Requirements of Schnauzers
Schnauzers have distinctive facial features and are very charming and are very pleasing to our eyes.
But maintaining and grooming schnauzers is tough and requires lots of care and time and also it is expensive.
Facial Hair
The moustache and beard need regular trimming to keep it free from matting and to maintain its shape.
Face hair gets stained from eye tears, regular cleaning and wiping his eyes and cleaning his face using tear stain removal products will help in maintaining his facial hair.
Coat Maintenance
Schnauzers have double coats, undercoats are short and soft and outer coats are long especially on legs and face.
You need to brush schnauzers daily to avoid matting and tangling, brushing will also help in removing loose and dead hair.
You can also consider taking schnauzers to a professional groomer or you can do hand stripping.
If you cannot give time and care in grooming schnauzers then this breed is not for you.
Nail grooming
Nails grow very quickly and need cutting every once in 15 days and schnauzers are not fond of nail grooming and you need to pin him down to cut his nails.
Ear Cleaning
Moisture gets trapped easily around the ears of schnauzers and gives growth to bacteria, keeps his ears dry and regularly cleans his ears with ear drops.
Schnauzers Barks
Schnauzers are very vocal and bark unnecessarily when left alone or when they get bored. They also bark if they see any strangers or hear any unknown voice.
Barking is also a positive attribute in him and makes him a great watchdog but in general it becomes uncomfortable if they bark continuously and regularly.
Early socialization and proper training will help in becoming a well behaved dog and help in controlling barking.
You can take help of anti dog barking devices or a professional dog trainer.
Schnauzers Require Large Space
Schnauzers need large space despite being medium in size. Having high energy levels requires large and open space to live and play.
They are not good for owners having small houses and leading a sedentary lifestyles or moderately active lifestyles.
Schnauzers are highly active and they need lots of exercise and they like to play which requires a large house or house with a garden or big open space.
Schnauzers are Expensive to Maintain
Schnauzers puppies cost between $500-$2500, which is quite expensive. It might increase if you buy from a professional dog breeder with high ratings.
Puppies cost aside, considering schnauzers food, vet, grooming and training will cost between $50-$70 monthly.
Schnauzers have High Prey Drive
Schnauzers were originally bred for catching rodents and birds on the fields. Because of this they have a high prey drive.
This tendency still persists in schnauzers and may chase other pets such as birds or cats or other small animals.
Aggressive Nature of Schnauzers
Compared to other aggressive dog breeds such as bull dogs, schnauzers are not that aggressive but they are aggressive.
They are not good with childrens and small pets and must not be left alone with schnauzers.
Effective training and maintaining consistency without any exception is a key to having a well behaved dog.
Stubbornness and Independent Nature of Schnauzers
Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and are quite good in various activities and learn quickly.
Despite being highly intelligent which makes training schnauzers easy but sometimes they are too stubborn and will not listen to you.
They ignore your authority and test your limits and selective listening will piss you off badly.
They are not for inexperienced dog owners and need a strong willed with a lot of experience of handling independent dogs.
Early socialization and training using methods such as positive reinforcement, developing some commands, praise and reward methods will help to control them.
FAQs
Q1. Are miniature schnauzers hypoallergenic?
Ans. Yes, miniature schnauzers are hypoallergenic because shedding is very low in them.
Q2. How long do schnauzers live?
Ans. Typical lifespan of giant schnauzers is 10-12 years, miniature schnauzers 12-14 years and standard schnauzers 13-16 years.
Q3. Do schnauzers shed?
Ans. Yes, schnauzers shed but are very minimal.
Q4. Do schnauzers smell?
Ans. Schnauzers’ skin produces oil excessively which results in a unique smell and feels greasy when you touch.
