Appearance of the Schnekingese
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The Schnekingese hybrid can take on the appearance of one or both of the breed's parents. It is considered a small dog, measuring 25.5 to 35.5 centimeters and weighing 4.5 to 9 kilos. Depending on which parent breed has the most influence in the biological mix, its coat may be short or long, or rough with a dense undercoat, the most common colors being black, brown, tan and white. Its eyes are dark, small or large, its nose is black and its ears are floppy. They are solidly built, with great vitality and energy. Its tail can vary in length, again depending on the dominant breed in the biological mix. As only the Miniature Schnauzer is considered hypoallergenic, it may or may not inherit this characteristic. |
Temperament of the Schnekingese
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Your Schnekingese hybrid is a mix of Miniature Schnauzer and Pekinese and, as such, may inherit temperament qualities from one or both parent breeds. It is described as affectionate, lively, loving and energetic. It's important to note that your Schnekingese hybrid, like almost all other dog breeds, needs to be properly socialized from an early age to ensure it gets on well with children and other animals. He will naturally get along with adults, but proper socialization is necessary with children as they tend to play with them in a less respectful manner. It's also very important that you teach your children the proper ways to touch and play with your pets. As he has a strong prey drive, you should expect him to be only moderately tolerant of other animals, supervision being recommended in this case. Although your hybrid is a barker, don't expect him to be alert enough to be an effective guard dog. Your Schnekingese is a smarter-than-average dog, but he can be easily distracted from the task at hand, making him moderately easy to train. Try to make your training sessions interesting to hold his attention, using treats as rewards, remaining positive and firm but encouraging. Progress is likely to be gradual, but not as slow as with other breeds. He is considered a lively, moderately active dog. |
Needs and activities of the Schnekingese
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Your Schnekingese hybrid is a lively, moderately active little dog. He'll love taking a few long walks with you each day as part of his daily regimen. Playtime in the dog park or fenced-in yard fits perfectly into his exercise routine. He'll also enjoy playing interactive games such as fetch, frisbee, fly ball and obedience exercises. As he has a strong propensity for hunting, it's imperative that you keep him on a leash when he's outside the house or other enclosed space, unless you like to chase him through the neighborhood brambles in search of a small animal or an interesting scent. As a small dog, he will adapt very well to an apartment or condo, provided his exercise needs are met on a daily basis. He's also at home in a family home with or without a fenced yard, in an urban or rural setting. A moderate climate will suit him best. Depending on the parent breed that influences its coat, it may need extra protection in warmer or colder temperatures. |
Maintenance of the Schnekingese
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Your Schnekingese hybrid falls into the low-to-moderate maintenance category. Its coat may or may not be hypoallergenic, as only the Miniature Schnauzer brings this characteristic to the organic mix, and it falls into the low to moderate shedding categories. Depending on the length and thickness of its coat, whether the Pekingese's long coat or the Schnauzer's short, hard coat, it should be brushed once or twice a week for short coats and daily for long coats. Brushing removes loose hairs, debris, knots and tangles, and distributes the oils throughout the coat. Bathing should only be done when necessary, not on schedule, as frequent shampooing can dry out the skin and coat. Check his ears once a week and clean them if necessary, using a cotton ball and an approved canine earwash solution. While you're checking his ears, it's a good time to take a look at his toenails, trimming them if necessary, unless they've been worn down by physical activity. Like all canine breeds, we recommend brushing your Schnekingese hybrid's teeth at least two to three times a week, but daily brushing is optimal. What's more, your Schnekingese hybrid falls into the low-slobber, low-smell category. |