Okay, folks. Jim and I are thinking about adopting another pet. We both LOVE dogs and for some time now, I've been feeling that longing for adding to our household. I certainly realize this is pretty much a life-altering and life changing event, so we're doing a lot of research in seeking out the right "fit" for us and for little BB. We've settled on getting a male (which we'll have neutered) and I believe we've narrowed the search down to a Schnauzer. We've both always had an affinity for German breeds and this one seems to meet our criteria (low to little shedding (hypoallergenic), intelligent, adorable, trainable and good for people who have small yards. Jim formerly trained German Shepherds for obedience trials and won many trophies. We want to train this pet together and will consider an enjoyable hobby. We believe that a male puppy will bring some companionship to BB as well. Advice? Experience with Schauzers? Your input will be appreciated.

 

I have no personal experience with dogs, except as a dog auntie, so I can not offer advice, just my .02.

You and Jim are wonderful pet parents. Any dog is lucky to live in your home.

You have a lot of to give an animal. Go for it!

Does Miss BB generally like other dogs?

 

Valentine, I know nothing about Schnauzers. Are you thinking of getting a puppy? They are pain to potty train but such a joy.

 

My sister has a Schnauzer - female. Let me ask her if there is anything you should know.

 

I can give some input, especially on giant schnauzers.

We have owned one for 11 years now. Giants are fairly rare compared to minis and this seems to be due to the breeders controlling who gets to breed. We had to agree not to breed our female before buying her.

Unfortunately she has been a nightmare from a health perspective. She has a "leaking problem" from day one, a thyroid problem, has had 3 toes amputated due to toe cancer and poor hips. I put this all down to the controlled breeding that has been going for many years now. Her father was a AKC champion but it seems he has given all these ailments to his children :-(

This does not take away from the fact that she is phenomenal dog. She is funny, smart, affectionate, mischievous at times :-) and protective of her family to a tee. I couldn't wish for a better dog from a personality perspective.

Before the giant we owned a mini for a while. He had a very similar personality to the giant although not so much of the guard dog.

I would say if you tend to enjoy terrier type breeds you can't go wrong with a schnauzer. A mini is probably the best option IMO just from the fact that there are far more of them out there. There are also standard schnauzers but I don't know much about them.

One caution I would mention is that they (both our mini and giant) like to bark. ALOT :-)

HTH

 

OK...she says Schnauzers like exercise every day. She walks hers. And they like to work for treats. And have a routine. She says if you get a puppy, then don't crop the ears. The hair will be cut in the Schnauzer cut. Just have to maintain that. Also train the dog well. But you have that covered. I think her dog is really cute.

 

Agree on the ears and the grooming. Our giant needs a groom every 8 weeks or so. We kept both our schnauzer's ears natural. I think they look better that way

 

A mini Schnauzer would make a great pet. Or for something a little different, how about a Schnoodle? Although I've always leaned toward larger dogs, Dexter continues to be a real joy for me. He's nineteen pounds and loves to travel, so we no longer have to go through the hassles of finding a dog sitter, like I had to do with my other dogs. He goes with us almost everywhere. And, unlike my other dogs, no shedding.

 

Thank you rbackhouse and MsP! I looked at the giants and they're just wayyyyy too large for us to be able to handle. Since I'm over 60 and my husband is older than I, we know that even if the dog weren't rambunctious it could cause one of us to fall or lose our footing. I've read and read over and over again, that the mini seems to have the same personality characteristics of the giants and standards. We couldn't care less about the barking. BB has a tendency to bark at any sound, movement, doorbell, intercom, telephone ring, and on and on. We have such a quiet house that sometimes its kind of nice to have a little noise.
Now I need to find a reputable breeder. Suggestions?

 

Maybe check your local shelters and rescue centers.....

Lots of dogs out there these days that need a good home.

Thats where we got Jackson! And is he smart! Took up driving real quick!