Information on Schnoodle Dogs

A Schnoodle, as one may guess from the sound of the name, that this dog comes from the cross breeding of a Schnauzer, with a Poodle. It is a first generation cross and has to have one purebred poodle and one purebred Schnauzer, as it parents.

The Schnauzer is a breed from Germany, that has a trademark of furry muzzle. While Poodles come in four sizes: standard, medium, miniature, and toy, Schnauzers come in three sizes: standard, giant, and miniature. This breed is achieved from the cross breeding of smaller sized dogs, of both species.

The size, a Schnoodle will grow to, will depend on the size of its parents, the average being 7 to16 pounds. However, the miniature variety is the most popular size.

Schnauzers have dense, wiry, stiff fur and long whiskers on their face. Most often their coats are a mixture of black and white. Poodles have a dense, curly, low-shedding coat, which is usually seen groomed into a style. Thus, a Schnoodle can have a coat similar to either of the parents, or sometimes can even have a combination of both.

Depending on which is the dominant breed, either the beard of the Schnauzer will be more prominent or the curly coat of the Poodle will be present. Some even have a rough coat as that of the Schnauzer on their back, and the soft curly fur as the Poodle on other areas of their body.

The coloring will depend on the coat colors of both its parents. These breeds are often seen in black, white, brown, gray, and apricot colors.

Poodles are adaptable, easy to train, and eager to please. The temperament of the parents is usually reflected in schnoodles. They also inherit the qualities of companionship and devotion, that are the personality traits of a Schnauzer.

They also exhibit a keen intelligence that may stem from being very observant or alternately, they may be analytical or instinctual. This breed impresses their owner with the ability to understand and respond to a fairly large number of phrases, such as "bring your leash" or "fetch the ball".

Their intelligence also enables them to participate in competitions, in categories of agility and obedience. These are affectionate, energetic dogs who make great companions.

The coat does not shed, and needs regular grooming. The coat should be brushed at least once a week, and groomed every 2 to 3 months. If this is not done, the coat will get matted and take on a scraggy appearance. It is also a good idea to daily clear away any discharge and dirt collected around the eyes, with wet cotton. Most of them are hypoallergenic, and make ideal pets for people with allergies.

When you bring a schnoodle puppy home, an essential task is to take him to the vet. This dog needs a number of vaccinations, and may need worm medication or a flea collar. The vet will also advise you as to what diet will best suit your dog.

Regular walks are mandatory, and as they are energetic dogs, they love their walks. During your regular visits to the vet, he may address the need for expression of the anal glands, which is usually performed for both poodles and schnauzers, a couple times per year.

Schnoodles are wonderful loving pets, who add fun and excitement to their owners' life. Shower yours with love and care, and you will have a loyal friend and companion for life!