Health Conditions In
Miniature Schnauzers
Miniature Schnauzers are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds they are prone to certain health conditions throughout their life. The list provided are examples of some conditions that are prone and related to the miniature schnauzer breed. Not all miniature schnauzers will get any or all of these conditions however it is important to be educated and be aware of these conditions when considering this breed.
- Cataracts: this condition causes a opacity in the dog's lens resulting in poor vision. It gives your dog's eye(s) a cloud appearance. This usually occurs in old age and can be surgically improved. This condition affects many purebreeds. Miniature Schnauzers have a 4.98% chance of being affected.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is an eye condition were there is a gradual deteroriation of the dog's retina. The retina is the part of the eye that retrieves visual information and sends messages to the brain. As a result your dog become s night-blind. It will progress to your dog losing it's sight all-together.
- Urinary Stones: This is a condition which causes strain on your miniature schnauzer during urination. Blood in the urine may occur, the need to urinate more often, and results in a cloudy and foul smelling urine. While most bladder stones can be passed on their own vet should be contacted. Surgical removal may be needed if the condition progresses.
- Schnauzer Bumps: this is also called Schnauzer Comedown Syndrome, which is reported to be the most common condition for this breed. The comedown is a blackhead. The skin cells and oils become clugged in the hair follicles and create the blackheads. They generally appear on their back. Once infected, they may develop pus-infected abscesses or "bumps." Certain shampoos and change in their diet may help this condition.
- Canine Pancreatitis: this is the inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis is where enzymes become active in the pancreas and begin damaging the tissue. There can be acute cases as well as chronic cases. Female dogs tend to be more prone to this condition. A low-fat special diet is needed to help and prevent further cases of this condition.
- Canine Diabetes: in diabetes the production of glucose (sugar) is interupted in the body. Type I diabetes is when the body does not produce sufficient insulin to handle the load of glucose in their body. Type II diabetes is when their body cells no longer responds to the intake of glucose properly. This condition causes many issues, consultation with your vet will provided detailed lifestyle and diet instructions to help maintain good healthy.
30 minutes of daily exercise is recommended for this breed. |
Fitness - Daily ExerciseMiniature Schnauzers need regular activity to vent their energy. Playing with toys around the house and following you room to room is not enough. Let them play and run outside, and take them on walks. Dogs who lack in exercise usually compensate in more destructive behavior or overeating out of boredom. The key is to help your dog to remain fit, have fun and stay healthy. Your vet is the best person to consult when designing a fitness program for your dog. |
Diet of Miniature Schnauzers
Miniature Schnauzers suffer from health problems associated with high-fat levels. Feeding the dog low or non-fatty and unsweetened foods may help avoid many problems, such as those listed above.
Make sure you take the time to read the label of the food you feed them and make sure it is all within the proper range. Treats count towards these totals as well. This breed suffers from many health problems associated with high-fat levels. They are prone to heart disease, pancreatic issues and diabetes- which is VERY PREVENTABLE with the right diet. The worst thing you can do is feed fatty table scraps, high fat treats, and over feed them their regular dog food as a regular routine in their diet. Maintaining a healthy diet for your miniature schnauzer will help to ensure a healthy life. Asking your vet for diet advice is always a good idea.
Water is the foundation for your dog's nutrition. GIve them fresh water DAILY and keep their bowl clean.The food pyramid shown below should give you a good idea of what is important in your miniature schnauzers diet and nutrition.
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