Schnauzers are an undeniably good-looking breed with a life expectancy of between 12-15 years. But, as the dictum says, looks can sometimes be deceiving as the dogs come with their fair share of drawbacks. These so-called drawbacks make it quite difficult to have them around. Therefore, you need to learn how to go about them and you’ll have an easier time living with your schnauzer, in case you already own one.
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What makes schnauzer dogs a bad breed?
Their adorable looks aside, a schnauzer dog breed has its fair share of drawbacks. For starters, the dogs are known for their loud barking. Not everyone is a fan of loud dogs, especially if you have neighbors who just want to have a good night’s rest or a fun, quiet weekend. Schnauzers don’t care about you or your needs. If they want to bark, they will.
Another drawback that comes with owning a schnauzer is due to their stubbornness. They are a breed that is known for their unwillingness to follow rules as well as accept change. Even though they make amazing travel companions, especially for the miniature size schnauzers, it becomes extremely difficult when they start acting up, especially in a public place where others go to enjoy some peace.
Another drawback that’s associated with owning a schnauzer dog breed comes in the form of maintenance. The dogs may have a beautiful, wiry coat that’s great to look at. But, that comes at a cost. Schnauzers are known for shedding their coat once after a few months.
That said, you’ll have to be on the lookout so that you can shave it just before it sheds it and leaves a lot of fur in and around the house which would need so much time to be cleaned out. You’ll find out that the trips to the groomers cost a fortune, especially when you realize how many times you’ll have to make those visits per annum.
Schnauzers are everything but independent. While some may find their clingy nature to be somewhat adorable, the crux of the matter is that most of us are busy and don’t have the time to be around a dog most of the time. They’ll also need regular exercising if you’re to counter their suspicion and barking, which can go on for the entire night if you aren’t too careful.
You’ll also have to be constantly worrying about coming across other animals because schnauzers always seem to be in the mood to play. Once they see other animals, they’re most likely to bark and chase after them, especially when they see cats, rabbits, or squirrels. The latter is what makes walking them quite a daunting task.
Common health problems affecting schnauzers
Health-related complications are yet another reason why most dog lovers are steering clear of owning a schnauzer breed. Apart from taking the huge responsibility of owning this type of breed is way too much, you’ll are most likely to find yourself parting with a couple of hundred bucks every year courtesy of a few trips to the vet’s office.
Schnauzers aren’t particularly known for their toughness. There are about six common ailments known to ‘terrorize’ this particular dog breed. One such ailment is none other than kidney stones (Calcium Oxalate Urolithiasis). Kidney stones, or sometimes bladder stones, affect most of the miniature schnauzer breeds and can take a lot of money to treat.
Some of the signs that your dog is suffering from kidney stones may include fever, lethargy, constant vomiting, poor appetite, kidney pain, bloody urine (hematuria), increased or decreased urine production, and abdominal discomfort.
Another ailment that affects schnauzers is Central Hypothyroidism. Schnauzers tend to have an issue with their thyroid glands as they get older.
The latter results in either an increase or decrease in size, which in turn results in hormonal imbalance. Some of the problems that your schnauzer is likely to develop as a result of a hormonal imbalance include ear infections, mental lethargy, skin-related issues (infections, greasy coat, hair loss, dryness, scaly appearance, or itchiness).
Another common sign of hormonal imbalance may include massive weight gain as a result of a slower metabolic rate. Other common health problems that are likely to affect your schnauzer dog, whether it’s miniature or standard, include Pancreatitis, Myotonia Congenita, Hip Dysplasia, and Follicular Dermatitis. Make sure you’re reading more about these ailments in case you already own a schnauzer.
Schnauzer temperament
Schnauzers are known for their cuteness, intelligence, and fearlessness. Unfortunately, these characteristics that look like a blessing on paper can turn into a nightmare in reality. Their spirited, alertness, and fearlessness can lead to excessive barking and chasing which would disrupt the peace more often than not.
Tips on how to live with schnauzers
If you already own a schnauzer, you have to learn all about the disadvantages so you can manage them better. For instance, if you’re a busy owner, you can always get a sitter for when you are at work. Lastly, always make regular trips to both the vet’s and the groomer’s and you’ll do just fine. If you can’t do that, then a schnauzer just isn’t your kind of dog breed.
