Schnoodle

The Schnoodle is a popular hybrid dog that is a cross between the Poodle and the Schnauzer. Depending on the size of the parents involved, the most popular size of Schnoodle can range between 7 to 16 pounds, although the Giant Schnoodle, which is a cross between the Giant Schnauzer and a Standard Poodle, can weigh between 65 and 85 to 90 pounds. Most Schnoodles are smaller dogs and although personality characteristics can vary, most are also very intelligent and eager to please, as well as high-energy and sturdy. This reflects the positive characteristics of the Poodle and Schnauzer, respectively.

History

Schnoodles were first the subject of dog lovers' attention in the late 1980s. Breeders began to crossbreed first-generation Schnauzers and Poodles to come up with a hypoallergenic dog, one that produced little to no shedding and little to no dander, that could be considered a family dog and had the positive characteristics in personality, temperament, and physical sturdiness and hardiness of both breeds. Today, most who seek a Schnoodle puppy still focus on first-generation offspring, meaning puppies that are crossed between schnauzers and poodles, of various sizes. Some breeders now focus on breeding multigenerational Schnoodles, where Schnoodles are bred with other Schnoodles, although this is not yet a developed practice. It's also worth noting that there's no breed standard for the Schnoodle, and most are small because the puppies' parents are Miniature Schnauzers and Toy or Miniature Poodles.

Appearance

Because the Schnoodles' parentage can be so varied, so, too, is their appearance. Schnauzers have rough hair and sturdy bodies, while poodles have curly hair and a more slender build, and Schnoodle puppies can exhibit any mix of these characteristics. Most people desire a small dog that weighs between 5 to 15 pounds, measures 8 to 10 inches at the shoulder, and has a curly coat reminiscent of the poodle, although by far the most desired physical characteristic is the hypoallergenic nature of the poodle-like fur. The Schnoodle is bred in three sizes: Toy, which stands 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder and weighs 5 to 10 pounds; Miniature, which stands 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder and weighs 13 to 20 pounds; and the Standard, which stands 15 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 20 and 65 or even 90 pounds. However, most Schnoodles are in the weight range of 20 pounds or less.

Temperament

As with any hybrid, the Schnoodle can display any number of personality characteristics depending on the parents' temperaments (and depending on what emerges with an individual puppy at random), but ideal, well-bred Schnoodles are intelligent, happy, loyal, incredibly energetic dogs, who are protective of those they love. They make excellent watchdogs, although they can be somewhat suspicious of people, depending on socialization and the genetic “roll of the dice,” so to speak.

If you choose to get a Schnoodle, take great care to socialize it properly. Early socialization and discipline are key to a happy, healthy Schnoodle, and can even prevent some personality problems that might otherwise occur. When they're young, Schnoodles are like sponges, because they are very intelligent, and if you train your pet to listen to you and expose it to many different sights, sounds, and experiences, the dog will be less likely to develop what can be the nervous and high-strung tendencies of the poodle. Some of this is a function of genetics, of course, but still: Early socialization and gentle consistent discipline can mean the difference between a well-behaved bundle of joy and a holy terror.

Most properly socialized and disciplined Schnoodles are truly excellent pets – funny, intelligent, loyal, lovable, faithful, exquisitely watchful, and very energetic and playful. One of the best games this dog likes is something some call the "Schnoodle 500" – a game where it runs fast in a circle, chasing its own hind end. You may never stop laughing once you adopt a Schnoodle, simply because it is always so happy!

Proper Environment

Schnoodles are very high-energy pets perfect for either an attentive single owner or a rambunctious, active family. Apartment living is quite acceptable if they are smaller dogs, but if you've got a larger Schnoodle, it's probably best if you can give it a yard to run around in. Regardless of size, most Schnoodles need about 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day. In addition, make sure you mentally and physically stimulate your new pet, because a bored Schnoodle can be a very destructive Schnoodle. It's also important to note that the Schnoodle does not like to be left alone, as this breed was meant as a companion dog. Don't adopt a Schnoodle of any size unless you intend to be as devoted to your pet as it will be to you.

Health

Schnoodles are pretty healthy dogs, but can be prone to certain health conditions depending on their genetic concentrations. Some things to watch for: Diabetes, epilepsy, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (degeneration of the femur bone), cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy or PRA, Addison's disease, and for larger dogs, bloat. Bloat is especially serious and can be fatal within an hour of onset. If your dog acts uncomfortable, tries to vomit but can't, appears in distress or depressed, take it to a vet immediately. The most common fix for this is surgery.

Most Schnoodles are screened for problems like hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand disease (similar to hemophilia in humans), and elbow dysplasia and receive health clearances for those conditions before adoption. Make sure your breeder supplies these clearances before you take it home. With regular veterinary visits and assuming no genetic problems, it's not uncommon for Schnoodles to live a long life, between 13 and 17 years on average.

Grooming

Most Schnoodles shed very little or not at all, so that they'll need to be clipped or trimmed on a regular basis. Schnoodles with soft, wavy coats should be brushed twice a week to prevent tangling and mats, and occasional baths to keep the coat soft and fluffy. If the Schnoodle has a rough, wiry coat like that of a Schnauzer, brush weekly and trim regularly. If your Schnoodle has a (tightly curled) Poodle's coat, brush weekly and trim every 6 to 8 weeks.

Brushing teeth: Many Schnoodles like to have their teeth brushed, and this should be done with special "doggie" toothpaste to prevent bacterial and tartar buildup. Doing so will prevent dental problems. Regular nail trimmings are also necessary.

References

Dogtime: Schnoodle. http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/schnoodle.

Retrieved February 15, 2013.

Schnoodle. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schnoodle.

Retrieved February 15, 2013.

Schnoodle: Schnauzer / Poodle Hybrid Dogs. http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/schnoodle.htm.

Retrieved February 15, 2013.

Vet Street: Schnoodle. http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/schnoodle.

Retrieved February 15, 2013.