23 Reasons a Miniature Schnauzer is Awesome for Seniors

The grandparents in my life have benefited from our Miniature Schnauzer, Livi, almost as much as we have. She has been an affectionate, accepting, lively addition to their visits with us and even, in some recent cases, their healing process. Watching Livi offer her completely natural and “no strings attached” type of love to the seniors in our family has been heartwarming and life-affirming. I wanted to understand more of the research and data behind how dogs can affect a senior’s life, and here is some of what I found. In fact, this is a list of 23 compelling reasons a Miniature Schnauzer could be a healthy addition to a senior’s life.

Are Miniature Schnauzers good for seniors? Miniature Schnauzers can be a great addition to a senior’s life. As long as all safety risks are accounted for, Miniature Schnauzers are a small, sturdy, hypoallergenic, affectionate, moderately active dog. These traits can keep a senior active, able to travel, live in a smaller space, and may even reduce stress and promote health.

For seniors considering adding a dog to their life, the decision should revolve around such things as lifestyle, health, mobility, and temperament.

Fundamental Considerations

If you are a senior considering a canine companion, or are helping a senior in your life find the right fur friend, you may want to start with some initial considerations.

Lifestyle. Do you need an active dog who can keep up with walking, hiking, and other sports or are your looking for a relatively sedentary dog who is more likely to lounge all day. Do you need a pet who is willing to travel?

Health. Do you need a dog who can adapt to health concerns, stay away from oxygen tubing or CPAPs, and be uninterested in getting into medications?

Mobility. Do you need a dog who can assist in fetching objects or turning off lights? Do you need a service dog who can help with health and mobility issues?

Temperament. Do you need a dog who is playful and energetic to keep up with and motivate a very active senior, or do you need a quiet, docile friend? Do you want a youthful puppy or a more mellow adult or senior pet?

Cost. Will caring for a dog be a burdensome financial situation? Even with an adult dog, there will be monthly and annual costs. Puppies needs more attention, supplies, and training. Senior dogs may have health problems or need emergency care.

While pets are not a good fit for all seniors, they have many positive effects overall.

In fact, you may want to read a University of Michigan National Poll on Aging regarding how pets contribute to healthy aging.

In addition, this Frontiers in Psychology scholarly article provides research on the interaction between pets and older adults.

23 Reasons Miniature Schnauzers Are Good for Seniors

Now for the fun part…let’s dive into many of the reasons a Miniature Schnauzer might just be the perfect fit for a senior lifestyle.

Small Enough to Handle

While Standard and Giant Schnauzers are terrific dogs, handling these larger dogs can be a challenge. Not everyone, let alone seniors, are necessarily able or willing to handle a 30-, 50-, 70-, or 90-pound companion.

Miniature Schnauzers, however, weigh between 12-20 pounds, and “teacup” sizes (although technically still considered to be Miniature Schnauzers), weigh between 8-12 pounds, all of which are a sizes and weights that are generally manageable.

Hypoallergenic and Low Shedding

Double coats and low pet dander make Miniatures hypoallergenic. They only shed about as much hair as a human being does, and it’s low-dander shedding at that.

Allergic reactions are produced by pet dander, which is simply a collection of dead skin cells that are shed along with hair and fur, but also shed in urine and drool.

Humans with animal allergies are reacting to proteins (allergens) that are secreted by the animal’s oil glands. These allergens are then shed with dead skins cells as a normal part of growth, renewal, and elimination processes. As a result, dander tends to be collected and present in hair, fur, urine, and saliva.

In animals who shed a lot of hair or fur, or who tend to drool a lot, pet dander is spread far and wide through its environment. Unsuspecting allergic humans will naturally have reactions that range from mild to severe.

Schnauzers have a low tendency to shed and drool, and as a result, don’t produce much dander. You might want to read my article Are Schnauzers Hypoallergenic (And Do They Mold or Shed?).

May Increase Life Expectancy

The American Heart Association Journal reported on a study indicating that having a dog can increase life expectancy, particularly when it comes to cardiovascular health.

In the main analyses (n=3,833,041 participants), dog ownership was associated with a 24% risk reduction for all-cause mortality as compared to non–dog ownership.

DOG OWNERSHIP AND SURVIVAL

Combine this research with additional indications that dogs can help with stress, immunity, and blood pressure, and you have a winning combination for potentially increasing both the quality and length of life.

Loving, Loyal, and Attentive

As canine companions go, Miniature Schnauzers are affectionate, loving, loyal, and attentive to their pet parents.

Miniature Schnauzers were bred to be with human families; working, playing, and relaxing with them. As a result, they thrive in their relationships and are attentive their human companions.

In fact, they are so attuned to these relationships that they can make excellent therapy and even service animals. You may be interested in my article Are Schnauzers Affectionate.

Quite Easy to Train

As intelligent dogs, Miniature Schnauzers are generally easy to train. They can tend to be a little willful and stubborn, but are also more than smart enough to learn new skills and behaviors, even as adults or seniors themselves.

Any bad doggie habits will take time to re-train, but patient efforts or even a round of obedience school might be a good bonding experience for a senior pet parent as well as the Mini. My article Can an Older Schnauzer Be Trained? (Steps and Examples).

Small, but Sturdy

As small dogs go, Miniature Schnauzers are on the sturdy end. Bred as hunting and guard dogs for German farmers, Miniatures are surprisingly strong and muscular.

Minis are capable of keeping up with activities and sports that take advantage of their muscular form, and will generally be sturdy enough to remain healthy and uninjured.

Their sturdiness will also come in handy when grandchildren visit and want to play!

Can Improve Mood

Schnauzers can be a mood booster! Dogs in general seem to have an oxytocin response similar to humans and it may explain, at least in part, why people and dogs tend to like each other.

Scientific American explores some of the science behind this phenomenon, but the bottom line is that being around dogs can make us feel good (and vice versa, as it turns out).

This is terrific news for seniors who may be going through changes that bring on some blues. Clinical depression should always be addressed with professional help, but for minor mood boosting, a loving Schnauzer could be a step in the right direction.

May Improve Immunity and Decrease Blood Pressure

Research indicates that seniors who have pets often demonstrate stronger immunity, faster recovery after illness, lower blood pressure, and an increase in cardiovascular health.

While Miniature Schnauzers (nor any other pet) are not a cure all, they do tend to have a positive influence on human health. Part of the influence may come from additional exercise and activity, as well as the release of feel-good hormones that contribute to overall health.

Need Only Moderate Exercise

As a terrific motivation to get out for a walk or hike, Miniature Schnauzers need a moderate but manageable amount of exercise each day. They thrive on between 30-60 minutes of active “work” each day such as walking, running, hiking, and playing ball or frisbee games.

Because Miniatures need some exercise each day, they also serve as great motivation for a senior to remain active and possibly even take up a new sport.

Whether it’s finding new hiking trails or enrolling a Schnauzer in an agility training program, a Miniature is an excellent exercise accountability partner! My article What are the Best Sports for Schnauzers? is full of fun ideas.

Willing to Lounge Inside or Play Outside

As a nice, balanced addition to a Miniature Schnauzer’s need for exercise, they are also willing and able to quietly hang out.

Adult Schnauzers, in particular, are able to rest and lounge with their human families when everyone seems to need some downtime.

Miniatures actually need between 12-16 hours of sleep per day and are generally very adaptable to their human friends’ schedules. Read about sleep patterns and more in my article How Long (and Where) Should Schnauzer’s Sleep (5 Go-To Facts).

Fairly Manageable Grooming Needs

In addition to being hypoallergenic, Miniature Schnauzers are relatively easy to maintain and small enough to make it manageable.

They can really benefit from a visit to the groomer every 4-8 weeks, especially for help with nails and anal expressing.

The at-home maintenance will come in daily brushing and keeping their beards clean and brushed, all to avoid matting.

Schnauzers don’t shed their coats, which dramatically cuts down on the need to vacuum and almost completely eliminates allergic reactions to pet dander. However, it does mean that Schnauzers need help maintaining their coat and beard with daily brushing and regular baths.

In addition, their manageable grooming routine should include daily teeth brushing, or at least 2-3 times per week.

Great for a Social Life and Making New Friends

As a friendly, beautiful breed with that striking, iconic beard, Miniature Schnauzers are always conversation starters and a great way to make new friends.

Being outdoors with fellow dog-lovers whether it’s at a dog park, walking around the neighborhood or retirement community, or simply running errands, a Miniature Schnauzer is destined to help seniors meet new people.

A strong social network and gratifying relationships is essential at any age, but seniors in particular benefit physically and emotionally from maintaining strong social ties.

Constant Companionship

Outside of human relationships, Miniature Schnauzers can provide constant, loving companionship 24/7.

While Miniature Schnauzers are not a cure for everything, their companionship can generally improve a senior’s overall well-being and life experience.

The companionship can be a trusted, constant source of gentle support, fun, and love.

Good with Grandchildren

When grandchildren or small neighbors come to visit, a Mini will be their immediate friend and playmate.

As long as the Miniature is well-trained and socialized, seniors can be confident that playdates, visits, and outings with the smaller people in their lives will be a success.

It’s always wise to supervise children with any dog, and children need to respect any dog’s space and tendencies, but Miniature Schnauzers are generally great with children of all ages.

Small Enough to Travel

If a senior’s lifestyle includes travel, Miniature Schnauzers can be great companions.

Training, socialization, and just incorporating a variety of travel activities with a Miniature will ensure that she adapts well to all situations.

They are small enough to travel easily in a train, or automobile.

Some Miniatures are even small enough to fly on airlines that allow pets. Be sure to check your airline’s specific requirements. Generally speaking, the carrier and your Schnauzer together must not weigh over 20 pounds, and the carrier must be small enough to fit in the space at your feet. Some airlines even allow you to purchase a seat for your canine companion.

Adaptable to Small-Space Living

Many seniors choose to downsize, live in a retirement community or assisted living community, or otherwise opt for smaller living spaces.

Naturally, the question of pet size comes up.

Miniature Schnauzers a very adaptable to small living spaces and can be very happy as long as they are getting enough exercise and mental stimulation.

A kennel or playpen can contain a Schnauzer while he is home alone (if necessary), and treat puzzles and interactive toys can keep her mentally sharp. Again, exercise will be key.

You may also want to read my article Are Schnauzers Good Apartment Dogs? for details on how a Miniature Schnauzer would potentially adapt to small-space living.

Can Generally Adapt to Hot or Cold Weather

Seniors may prefer to live a “snowbird” lifestyle maintaining their original home in addition to a winter home located somewhere nice and balmy. Seniors may also want to simply settle in wherever they live, even if the winters are harsh.

In general, and with the right care, Miniature Schnauzers can adapt to a variety of climates.

One reality to keep in mind is that weather and temperature will affect a Schnauzer in essentially the same way it affects a human.

You’ll want to read my articles Can Schnauzers Hack the Hot Weather? and Can Schnauzers Cope with Cold Weather? for tips to make any weather condition safe and manageable.

Adult Miniature Schnauzers Are Fun, Not Hyper

Let’s be honest, puppies can be a handful….even adorable Miniature Schnauzers. What’s more, Schnauzers can be territorial little barkers and they do better with a fair amount of activity and exercise.

Having said that, adult and senior Miniatures can mature into fun-loving, yet slightly mellowed companions. This combination of traits makes for an adaptable and complementary fur friend.

May Reduce Anxiety and Stress

As mentioned above, Schnauzers can be small but effective mood boosters.

This is due, in part, to the mutual release of oxytocin as people and pets interact.

Petting a Schnauzer, for example, is good for everyone involved as the “love” hormone floods both the senior’s system and the Schnauzer’s.

This may decrease anxiety, stress, and even lessen symptoms of mild depression.

For more information, you may be interested in my article Can Schnauzers Sense Pain, Grief, and Depression?

Could Warn About Health Problems

Like all dogs, Schnauzers can naturally use their powerful sense of smell to detect human diseases such as cancer and diabetes as well as conditions such as seizures, hypoglycemia, and narcolepsy. Schnauzers can also be specifically trained to detect specific diseases.

All dogs have approximately 300 million olfactory receptors, and a significant portion of their brain is dedicated to detecting and analyzing odors in parts per trillion. This powerful sense of smell has become the subject of research, particularly in the health care sector, as experts explore ways to use it for early disease detection.

For seniors, it could mean that a Miniature Schnauzer could help alert them to high or low blood sugar, or even developing diseases such as cancer. Read my article Can Schnauzers Smell Cancer and Other Diseases?

If a senior actually needs more specific help from a service animal, read my article Can Schnauzers Be Therapy or Service Dogs?

Acceptable in Many Assisted Living Communities

In addition to being a good fit for small living spaces such as apartments or condominiums, Miniature Schnauzers are often acceptable pets for assisted living communities.

Obviously, you will need to check each assisted living location you are interested in. However, small and hypoallergenic Miniature Schnauzers are often a good fit for many communities’ size, shedding, and cleanliness guidelines.

Independent Enough to Stay Alone for Several Hours

Miniature Schnauzers are very social, family-oriented dogs. However, they are capable of staying alone for several hours, if needed.

Adult Schnauzers, in particular, should be able to rest or safely entertain themselves in the absence of their pet parent. Having food, water, toys, and their favorite bed available for a Mini will help to ensure a senior can get out and do things knowing that their fur friend is okay.

Encourage Self-Care

Finally, taking care of a Miniature Schnauzer can also encourage overall self-care. Unless the Schnauzer’s needs end up coming before the senior’s (which has been reported as a possible risk), caring for a pet can be a reminder to care for oneself as well.

Caring for a Miniature Schnauzer is a reminder of good things in life, including the value of giving and receiving love. It’s a reminder that hygiene, healthy meals, exercise, connecting with other people, and continued self-develop enriches life at any age.

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