Appearance of the Crested Schnauzer
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The Crested Schnauzer is a small dog and will generally be well proportioned, somewhere between the slim, elegant form of the Chinese Crested Dog and the almost square, robust conformation of the Miniature Schnauzer. They may inherit the elegant, fragile head structure of the Chinese Crested Dog or the robust rectangular head shape of the Schnauzer, and will generally have oval or almond-shaped dark brown eyes, although lighter-colored dogs may have lighter brown eyes. Their triangular or V-shaped ears rest high on this hybrid's head and can stand straight or droop forward or to the side. Although this hybrid can exist in almost any color, they are most often seen in the black, gray and silver combinations that are characteristic of the Miniature Schnauzer. The texture of the outer coat can be either the silky texture of the Chinese Crested Schnauzer or, more likely, the harsh, stiff coat of the Miniature Schnauzer. |
Temperament of the Crested Schnauzer
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The Crested Schnauzer is a courageous, spirited animal, more affectionate than the typical Miniature Schnauzer, but less prone to the separation anxiety caused by the sometimes needy temperament of the Chinese Crested Dog. This cross will be happiest and easiest to manage if fully integrated into family activities, and as both parent breeds are inquisitive dogs, mental stimulation will be needed throughout the day to keep them out of trouble. They are intelligent, which makes them fairly easy to train and inclined to try to train you. Training sessions must remain consistent with this breed throughout their lives to engage their minds and curb manipulative behavior. Although they do quite well with well-behaved older children, Crested Schnauzers may not be suitable companions for very young or boisterous children. There is a risk of jealous behavior from Crested Chinese Dog genetics, and the Miniature Schnauzer can have a variable temperament, and while some are excellent with children, others can be lively and defensive. There is also a risk of injury to the dog from rough or clumsy handling by the child. |
Needs and activities of the Crested Schnauzer
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Activity requirements for the Crested Schnauzer are relatively undemanding, and they are usually satisfied with forty to sixty minutes of vigorous activity a day, although dividing these sessions into smaller chunks of time can be more beneficial. These small dogs are well suited to life in smaller spaces with several short walks or energetic indoor play sessions a day, however, some dogs will be prone to excessive barking or even howling, making them noisy neighbors. These are inquisitive, active dogs, and mental stimulation of some kind will be necessary to prevent destructive or manipulative behavior from starting due to boredom. It's important not to leave this mixed breed outside alone, even in a fenced yard, as the Chinese Crested Dog is a notorious fence climber and the Miniature Schnauzer is a terrier and will try to dig under fences that this dog can't overcome. |
Maintenance of the Crested Schnauzer
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The care of this dog will vary somewhat according to the type of coat it has inherited. Crested Schnauzer dogs that are mostly hairless will need more frequent bathing, although brushing takes very little time, while the full-coated variety generally requires fewer baths, with combing and brushing several times a week to prevent tangles and mats. from forming. The skin of the Chinese Crested Dog is prone to irritation, especially in the hairless variety, and the Crested Schnauzer can also inherit this trait. This means that a good, non-irritating dog shampoo is essential for this dog's health, as is checking for any problems such as rashes, acne or swelling every time you bathe your pet. If the outer coat resembles that of the Miniature Schnauzer, regular clipping or hand stripping may also be necessary to keep this stiff coat clean and healthy. |