Are you thinking of what dog breed might be suitable for you as a first-time owner? I know exactly how you feel. Before we got Fifi, we were excited about her arrival. Yet, we are also anxious about the challenges that might arise with caring for a new furbaby. However, with proper research done, you’ll be better prepared on what to expect.
Fifi has been with us since she was 2 months old. She is a happy 13-year-old girl now. With my experience handling a Miniature Schnauzer, I will be sharing with you 5 reasons why Miniature Schnauzers might just be the dog breed you are looking for.
- They are hypoallergenic
If the cleanliness of your house is a concern to you, you’ll be thrilled to know that Miniature Schnauzers do not shed fur. Shedding was a huge consideration for my mother. Even though not shedding fur also means you might need to brush its beard frequently to prevent matting, dog shedding is much harder to clean up, even with a lint roller.Miniature Schnauzers do not drool as well, plus point for cleanliness!
For Fifi, we have tried sending her for Schnauzer cut grooming. However, we thought that she does not suit that cut. Hence, we do not let her keep her beard from then on. Keeping the beard short is a workaround if you do not have time to brush frequently.
Aside from being cleaner by not shedding, hypoallergenic dogs are perfect for people with a sensitive nose. If you sneeze every time a dog is in a room, Miniature Schnauzers will be suitable for you as the lack of shedding will not trigger your allergy.
- They are extremely smart
Miniature Schnauzers are also extremely intelligent. The breed was initially trained as a herding dog. In today’s context, they will be suited to be trained as a therapy or service dog. In Singapore, a grey and white Miniature Schnauzer, Button, is a therapy dog to offer comfort for elderly patients in hospice care.
In my own experience, we have never sent Fifi for any dog training before. However, she is smart enough to check if we are nearby once in a while when we go for walkies. Another example of their intelligence is how they will try to communicate. When Fifi was a puppy, we enclosed her in an area within the house. To show us that she wants to play or come out of the area, she would throw her toy over the fence repeatedly so that we will let her get the toy. Fifi seldom cause troubles for us growing up. She loves cleanliness herself and would clean her mouth after meals. She also only pees and poops in the outdoors. Even though these traits might not apply to all Miniature Schnauzers, their intelligence is undeniable. With proper training, they could be easily managed and obedient.
- Miniature Schnauzers are a good size
Being the smallest dog in the Schnauzer family, they only weigh between 5.4kg to 9kg which makes them easy to carry around. Their size also makes it convenient to bring them around as they could easily fit in a pet carrier. Especially in Singapore where pets are not allowed on some private cars without a bag, a small dog breed like Miniature Schnauzer can get around easier compared to a larger breed.
- They are good-tempered and affectionate
Personality and affection level of the dogs is an important consideration when getting a pet. Miniature Schnauzers are generally well-mannered and they are quite independent too. They do not always require constant attention and are perfectly fine to be left alone for a while. All they need is your presence within the room and you are free to do your things too.
For Fifi, she needs her own space and alone time as well. Sometimes, she would just chill at a quiet corner at home to get her beauty sleep. The only time when she will bark for attention is when she is hungry, wants to play or waiting for walkies. These instances do not happen very often and even when they do, the timing is rather consistent which makes it easy for me to plan my schedule.
- They are generally a healthy breed
Pet care can be costly in Singapore especially if you do not have a pet insurance policy. Cost aside, first-time pet owners may not know how to handle certain health conditions that might be breed-related. Miniature Schnauzers are generally healthy with little joint and back problems. With a good diet and having enough exercise, the healthiness of the breed can put your mind at ease as you do not have to worry much or spend too much time caring for the health conditions. That being said, you still have to look out for any unusual signs and symptoms just in case they fall ill. Being a healthier breed does not mean that they will not fall sick and requires no attention to their health. However, a healthier breed will mean it is less likely you have to spend on pet care or faced with challenges you might not know how to handle as a first-time pawrent.
In conclusion, Miniature Schnauzers are just the right amount of fun and independence. With proper training from puppyhood, they can become great companions which are obedient and sensitive to your emotions. While they offer you the comfort you need through the ups and downs in life, you can have the peace of mind as they are a healthy breed which you need not worry about their health and the cost of pet care often. Miniature Schnauzers are easy to care for and will be good for first-time owners to gain experience in caring for a pet. With a good family, Miniature Schnauzers can bring priceless value and fun into your life. However, it depends on you for what is the most important considerations when getting a pet. It will be wise to research each breed thoroughly before making a decision.