Purebred Dogs
Surprisingly, genetics state that all mixes of two purebred dogs are basically more survivable, less susceptible to genetic diseases, and has a higher life expectancy, because, in fact, centuries of inbreeding have made all purebred dogs lame. Thus, a mangy pooch is usually healthier than a bulldog (unless taking fleas into account), but a crossbreed from two purebred dogs also becomes more survivable than any one of these two. Letâs find out whether this is true for Schnau-Tzu, a mixture of Shih Tzu and Schnauzer.
Size
An average Schnau-Tzu is almost as big as a Shih-Tzu, from 7 to 15 pounds, whereas Shih-Tzusâ weights vary from 9 to 16 pounds. Of course, in comparison with an average Schnauzer, Shih-Tzu is much smaller, though it depends on what Schnauzer we take â the Miniature Schnauzer is more like a normal puppy.
Lifespan
Schnauzerâs average lifespan varies from 13 to 16 years; Shih Tzuâs varies from 10 to 16 years. Alas, for some reason, life expectancy of Shih-Tzu is even lower. It numbers only 10-12 years.
Temperament
The Shih-Tzu inherits the stubborn personality of Shih Tzu. They have an attitude and can sometimes be moody. However, this crossbreed is a very loving and caring dog who likes to play and be held in hands. It is very intelligent and can be trained fast with positive reinforcement. It doesnât bark a lot, unless when lonely or playing, and unfortunately, it often doesnât bark when itâs needed â its watchdog ability is low and it may well let an intruder pass. Although there is no info on Schnau-tzuâs allergenic properties, but some breeders claim they are completely hypoallergenic. Besides, Schnau-tzu is not aggressive and you can freely let them play with kids.
Maintenance
A usual apartment fits well for this dog, though it sheds regularly and youâll need to vacuum often. However, brushing twice a week can reduce shedding and make the coat cleaner and softer. Unlike Shih Tzu, Schnau-tzu doesnât have such a long hair, so you donât have to cut it that often. Walking should take about half an hour or an hour daily along with other exercises. Mind that hernias and respiratory colds are considered the most commonly spread diseases among this breed, so take measures accordingly to avoid them. As with any other dog of its size, Schnau-tzu should be fed thrice a day in small portions.
Conclusion
All in all, Schnau-Tzu is priceless as a companion dog, though completely useless as a guard or a hound. It is an undemanding, playful and kind dog, which can make every family a bit happier.
âAll in all, Schnau-Tzu is priceless as a companion dog, though completely useless as a guard or a hound.â
Not quite, mine barks quite a bit during the night. Small body, yet ferocious in its vocals.
My schnauzer shih tzu is 2 years old and he wonât go up the stairs unless someone is behind him and wonât go down the stairs at all. Iâve try teaching him and he just stays frozen. Heâs never fallen down the stairs so I donât understand whatâs the problem. Please advice, I have to other dogs and I donât have the same issue with them.
Vivian Roman, I’d ask you vet to examine your dogs hips and patellas. Ours at 2 couldn’t come down the stairs, but could go up, would freeze when we tried teaching, had never fallen nor had any injuries. Dog was otherwise fine. We asked the vet, and they found was born with hip dysplasia and we had never known, exhibited no symptoms at all. Vet says dogs hide it so well. Vet said dogs with hip dysplasia can’t go downwards as it involves using different bone movement/positioning to walking, running and going up the stairs.
I have and 8 week old Schnauzer & Shih Tzu mix. She is a very aggressive little puppy. She cannot chew her dry dogfood very well. Could some one give me some advice on these subjects?