Schnoodles are in the class often known as "designer dogs.
" They are a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle.
This particular combination is typically attempted in hopes of obtaining a dog who sheds less -- and thus is more hypoallergenic.
All dogs are allergenic to some degree (they do shed, after all) and to some people.
But because Poodles shed less than most breeds, they are frequently crossed with other breeds to lower the allergenic reactions of potential owners.
They can be a great choice for those who appreciate dogs with the Schnauzer personality but who want a dog somewhat less likely to stir up allergenic reactions.
Schnoodles can come in a fairly wide assortments of sizes and colors.
Poodles can be found in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes; Schnausers may be Giant, Standard, or Miniature.
So depending on the respective sizes of the parents, the resulting offspring can range widely in size.
They can also range widely in colors, including apricot, black, brown, gray, and a combination of these.
As to their coat, it may be wiry like a Schnauzer, soft and curly like a poodle, or wavy -- or a combination of these on differing parts of the body.
In addition to the issue of allergenicity, Schnoodles make loving companions who combine the intelligence of Poodles with the devotion and loyalty that is a strong characteristic of Schnauzers.
They often excel in obedience and agility sports, demonstrating their energetic and fun-loving natures.
Whether your dog demonstrates more of her Poodle heritage or more of her Schnauzer heritage is pretty much up to chance.
There are many possible combinations of the parents' genes.
You need, therefore, to be comfortable with the characteristics and temperaments of both breeds.
Any given dog is likely to lean more toward the Poodle side or the Schnauzer side, and the mix will probably not be 50/50.
When you're discussing your choice(s) with the breeder -- a pet store is not the place to buy any dog -- ask about the health of the parents and about any health testing that may have been done.
Inquire particularly about progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia.
These are a concern of Poodle owners and could be passed along to their Schnoodle offspring.
Keep in mind that grooming will be an on-going part of life with a Schnoodle.
Professional grooming is often required for Schnauzers because of their hard, wiry coat, and your Schnoodle may inherit a similar coat.
Frequent brushing and regular clipping will help them continue to look good.
Ear hair may also be a regular need.
You can turn this task over to a groomer, or learn how to do it yourself.
It is worth noting that Schnoodles are becoming increasingly popular.
The risk here is that people may want to "cash in" by breeding them quickly and paying inadequate attention to evaluating the parents or to testing for potential health problems.
So, before you buy a puppy, do the research necessary to find a reputable breeder who is committed to the Schnoodle breed over the long haul -- one who'll ensure that you get just the loving companion to meet your needs.
" They are a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle.
This particular combination is typically attempted in hopes of obtaining a dog who sheds less -- and thus is more hypoallergenic.
All dogs are allergenic to some degree (they do shed, after all) and to some people.
But because Poodles shed less than most breeds, they are frequently crossed with other breeds to lower the allergenic reactions of potential owners.
They can be a great choice for those who appreciate dogs with the Schnauzer personality but who want a dog somewhat less likely to stir up allergenic reactions.
Schnoodles can come in a fairly wide assortments of sizes and colors.
Poodles can be found in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes; Schnausers may be Giant, Standard, or Miniature.
So depending on the respective sizes of the parents, the resulting offspring can range widely in size.
They can also range widely in colors, including apricot, black, brown, gray, and a combination of these.
As to their coat, it may be wiry like a Schnauzer, soft and curly like a poodle, or wavy -- or a combination of these on differing parts of the body.
In addition to the issue of allergenicity, Schnoodles make loving companions who combine the intelligence of Poodles with the devotion and loyalty that is a strong characteristic of Schnauzers.
They often excel in obedience and agility sports, demonstrating their energetic and fun-loving natures.
Whether your dog demonstrates more of her Poodle heritage or more of her Schnauzer heritage is pretty much up to chance.
There are many possible combinations of the parents' genes.
You need, therefore, to be comfortable with the characteristics and temperaments of both breeds.
Any given dog is likely to lean more toward the Poodle side or the Schnauzer side, and the mix will probably not be 50/50.
When you're discussing your choice(s) with the breeder -- a pet store is not the place to buy any dog -- ask about the health of the parents and about any health testing that may have been done.
Inquire particularly about progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia.
These are a concern of Poodle owners and could be passed along to their Schnoodle offspring.
Keep in mind that grooming will be an on-going part of life with a Schnoodle.
Professional grooming is often required for Schnauzers because of their hard, wiry coat, and your Schnoodle may inherit a similar coat.
Frequent brushing and regular clipping will help them continue to look good.
Ear hair may also be a regular need.
You can turn this task over to a groomer, or learn how to do it yourself.
It is worth noting that Schnoodles are becoming increasingly popular.
The risk here is that people may want to "cash in" by breeding them quickly and paying inadequate attention to evaluating the parents or to testing for potential health problems.
So, before you buy a puppy, do the research necessary to find a reputable breeder who is committed to the Schnoodle breed over the long haul -- one who'll ensure that you get just the loving companion to meet your needs.
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