Schnauzer Health Concerns: A Comprehensive Guide

Like many purebred dogs, Schnauzers are vulnerable to some health problems that are inherited genetic weaknesses. While all Schnauzer breeds (Miniature, Standard, and Giant) were bred to be hard-working, strong, muscular German farm dogs, the cross-breeding process that resulted in each Schnauzer breed generated health strengths as well as some weaknesses.

Of the three breeds, Miniature Schnauzers are more vulnerable to health issues than Giant and Standard Schnauzers. If you have any real concerns about your Schnauzer’s health or worrisome symptoms, please check with your veterinarian.

Your Guide to the Most Common Schnauzer Health Concerns

This guide covers the most common, and often frightening, health concerns for each Schnauzer breed.

This discussion of common Schnauzer diseases focuses on Miniature Schnauzers first because they tend to have the most health issues. The process of breeding smaller dogs can create genetic predispositions to certain diseases, and that is the case with Miniatures.

However, even if you have a Standard or Giant Schnauzer, it is wise to be aware of each of these potential diseases since many of them can affect any dog, regardless or breed or size.

Specific and more common diseases associated with Standard and Giant Schnauzer are listed in the last two sections of this guide.

For now, let’s start with Miniature Schnauzers.

Miniature Schnauzers: Common Health Concerns

Miniature Schnauzers, unfortunately, suffer from more health concerns that their larger counterparts. They are the most recent breed of Schnauzer and have a lifespan of between 12-16 years.

Here are some common Schnauzer diseases to watch for:

Bladder or Kidney Stones

Miniature Schnauzers are prone to bladder or kidney stones, particularly at around 6 years of age or older. In addition, female Schnauzers are especially susceptible due to a genetic breed-related weakness in their urinary tract. Male Schnauzers can also develop stones, but it is much less common.

Medically termed Calcium Oxalate Urolithiasis, the development of kidney or bladder stones tends to account for approximately 40% urology problems.

While there are other types of stones, Schnauzers are specifically prone to developing calcium stones, which cannot be dissolved and will need to be removed surgically.

Advanced stages of kidney or bladder stones are very serious, even life-threatening if your Schnauzer is experiencing a complete urinary blockage.

Read my article 6 Signs Your Schnauzer Has Stones (and 10 Prevention Tips) for important details.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS

TREATMENT

Trouble urinating or very little urine at each attempt Abdominal discomfort Change in urine production (increased or decreased) Blood in the urine Fever Kidney pain to the touch Lethargy Poor appetite Vomiting

Your veterinarian will administer tests to determine which type of stone your Schnauzer has developed. Again, they are likely calcium stones which will need to be removed surgically. In addition, you will want to prevent additional stones from developing with a therapeutic dog food that is extremely low in calcium oxalate and is generally only available from your veterinarian. You may also want to work with your veterinarian to schedule regular urine testing and either x-rays or ultrasound examinations to look for new stones. This will give you some possible non-surgical treatment options while they are small.

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Cushing’s Disease

Cushing’s Disease is more common in Miniature Schnauzers between 6-8 years. The condition results when the pituitary gland over-secretes adrenal cortex hormones. The leading cause is either excessive steroid medications or a genetic defect. The disease can also be caused by an adrenal tumor.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
Thinning coat Weight gain Increased thirst and urination Urinating at night or having accidents Increased hunger Increased panting Pot-bellied abdomen Obesity Fat pads on the neck and shoulders Loss of hair Lack of energy Muscle weakness Infertility Darkening of the skin Thin skin Bruising Hard, white scaly patches on the skin, elbows	Depending on the specific cause and diagnosis of the disease, the treatment will likely include the medication trilostane, which can have some serious side-effects. This condition will require ongoing management and check-ups.

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Cataracts

This condition disrupts the normal arrangement of the fibers of your Schnauzer’s eye, which can completely or partially block the clarity of her lens, causing blindness in the long run. As with humans, cataracts should be surgically removed. The good news is that early detection by a veterinarian and correct treatment can successfully restore your Schnauzer’s vision.

Read my article Do Schnauzers Get Cataracts (10 Eye Problems to Know About) for additional details.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS

TREATMENT

Look for an opaque bluish or gray cloudiness developing in your Schnauzer’s eyes. Here are several other risk factors you should be aware of: Old age Congenital cataracts (being born with cataracts) Diabetes mellitus Nutritional disorders Injury or eye trauma Hypocalcemia (very low calcium levels in the blood) Eye Inflammation Secondary development in combination with other eye diseases like glaucoma Electric shock Exposure to radiation or toxic substances

Schnauzer cataracts can be successfully treated with cataract surgery, which removes the hardened, opaque cataracts and replaces them with artificial lenses.

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Additional Eye Diseases

Myotonia congenita and retinal atrophy are some of the common eye conditions affecting Miniature Schnauzers. If you’re a breeder, it’s essential to carry out genetic tests to determine if either of the parent Schnauzers is a carrier of any hereditary conditions. These eye conditions inflict gradual blindness that starts in a young Miniature and advances as it ages.

Seizures

All Schnauzer breeds, especially Miniature Schnauzers, do have an elevated risk for seizures. If a Schnauzer has inherited the risk, the seizure episodes will most likely begin manifesting at between six months and three years of age. Environmental and physical factors can also cause seizures and you will need to work with your veterinarian to determine the causes and treatment.

There are three kinds of seizures in Schnauzers: primary, reactive, and secondary.

Secondary seizures are usually caused by a stroke, trauma, or a brain tumor.

Reactive seizures are a result of a reaction of the brain to a metabolic issue like organ failure, a toxin, or low blood sugar.

If no other causes can be found, then the condition is called idiopathic or primary epilepsy.

This condition is usually an inherited disease, and Schnauzer breeds are most prone to the condition. If your Schnauzer is prone to idiopathic epilepsy or seizures, the episodes will begin showing between the age of six months and three years.

Read my article Your Schnauzer is Prone to Seizures (What to Do) for more critical information.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS

TREATMENT

Your Schnauzer might actively seek you or appear nervous because he can sense that something is about to happen. Additional signs may include: Dilated pupils Nervousness Restlessness Shaking Salivating Whining

To determine the cause and manage the seizures, you should consider taking your Schnauzer to your veterinarian for a comprehensive diagnostic workup, and read my article Your Schnauzer is Prone to Seizures (What to Do) for details on seizures and specific steps for handling them. An initial diagnostic examination might help find the underlying cause of seizures. For some Schnauzers, lifelong medication is necessary to assist in managing seizures with periodic blood tests required to monitor the efficacy and side effects.

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Myotonia Congenita

This health concern is an inherited muscle disorder that can cause your Miniature Schnauzer’s muscle cells to overreact and remain over-stimulated after exercise, for example. This keeps her muscles contracted and creates serious muscular issues over time.

In 2002, the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine team “developed a molecular genetic test to detect the mutant skeletal muscle chloride channel (CIC-1) allele that causes myotonia congenita in Miniature Schnauzers and to analyze the relationship of affected and carrier dogs.”

Before purchasing a Miniature, you may want to request that your breeder conduct this simple DNA test to screen for the disease. You also will want to request your Schnauzer’s pedigree and parentage details to ensure that her parents weren’t affected.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
A stiff or bunny hopping gait Bulging muscles A swollen tongue Problems balancing	Unfortunately, as an inherited muscle disorder, there is no cure. In addition, if your Schnauzer has inherited it, she won’t be able to exercise like other dogs. However, working with your veterinarian to incorporate a healthy diet and medication can help her to live a healthy, reasonably active life.

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Mycobacterium Avium (AVB)

This is a severe bacterial infection affecting Miniature Schnauzers which is mostly misdiagnosed. The symptoms of this infection are similar to lymphatic cancer and can easily be confused with it.

The best thing to do is to exercise caution and visit with your veterinarian if your Schnauzer exhibits any of the following signs:

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
Lack of appetite Swollen lymph nodes Diarrhea Vomiting Lameness when walking	This disease is not curable, but can be treated with antibiotics. Your veterinarian will need to be involved for ongoing monitoring and any additional medical interventions.

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Central Hypothyroidism

Miniature Schnauzers, and all Schnauzer breeds, can also suffer hypothyroidism when they are unable to secrete adequate amounts of the thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism is a hormonal disorder commonly found in middle-aged and older dogs. In such cases, their thyroid glands shrink or become inflamed, causing the thyroid hormone to decrease in production. You may begin to notice that your Miniature has a hard time tolerating colder temperatures.

The challenge here is that most every breed of dog can develop hypothyroidism, but Miniature Schnauzers are very susceptible to developing a rare, specific type of hypothyroidism known as “central hypothyroidism.” In fact, central hypothyroidism is unique to Miniature Schnauzers, especially those with dwarfism.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
Inability to tolerate colder temperatures Decreased metabolic rate, causing dogs to gain weight Lack of energy Mental lethargy Ear infections Skin issues that include:     Hair loss     Dry, scaly, itchy, or greasy coat     Infections	If you observe any of these symptoms, your veterinarian will be able to confirm whether or not your Miniature is suffering from central hypothyroidism. If so, he will most likely prescribe a treatment medication called levothyroxine, and you should see improvement in between 4-8 weeks.

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Pancreatitis

Miniature Schnauzers are also prone to pancreatitis. When your Schnauzer’s pancreas is performing normally, it helps aid her digestion process by releasing enzymes. Under normal circumstances, the enzymes don’t begin activating their function until they reach the small intestine.

However, in Schnauzers that have pancreatitis, the enzymes activate as soon as they are released. Over time, this causes inflammation and ultimately damages the pancreas, the surrounding tissues, and even local organs.

If this condition is left untreated, it will cause serious digestive orders and will affect your Schnauzer’s overall health.

Although the exact reasons for pancreatitis are unknown, there are causes and risk factors that can help it develop. As a pet parent, you can control most of these factors.

Be sure to read my article Why Do Schnauzers Get Pancreatitis? (And Preventative Food) for key details about this serious health concern.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
The top factors include: Genetic predisposition Diabetes High-fat diets Over-eating Obesity Blunt trauma The warning signs of pancreatitis include: Dehydration Diarrhea Distended abdomen Fever Hunched back Lethargy Loss of appetite Painful stomach to the touch Vomiting Weakness	If your Schnauzer’s life includes many of the risk factors, and you are noticing several of the symptoms, please visit your veterinarian for a diagnosis. Pancreatitis can be extremely serious and even life-threatening. Your veterinarian will likely prescribe rest, antiemetic medication, and put them on a low-fat diet composed of more frequent but smaller meals.

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Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a common problem that affects many dog breeds, but is also common among Schnauzers. It’s a condition that leads to a deformity in the femur joint such that the femur head can’t fit correctly in the hip socket.

Miniature Schnauzers are susceptible (along with Standard and Giant Schnauzers).

Hip dysplasia has gradually been somewhat reduced in Schnauzers through selective breeding, but is still a problem to be aware of. The condition can be painful and impact your Schnauzer’s ability to run, play, or even rest.

You may want to invest in a therapeutic bed even when your Schnauzer is a puppy. The extra support and cushion will help with the symptoms of hip dysplasia and with joint problems overall.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
Bunny hopping gait Hind end lameness Loss of muscle mass, notably in the thigh Imbalance Issues going up or down the stairs Joint grating Joint laxity Collapse Fatigue Lethargy Lowered range of motion Narrowed stance Pain Problems rising, running, or jumping Stiffness Swaying while walking	If your Schnauzer is actually diagnosed with this inherited disease, your veterinarian will likely recommend one of three surgical options: Double or triple pelvic ostectomy Femoral head ostectomy Total hip replacement

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Follicular Dermatitis (Schnauzer Bumps or Comedone Syndrome)

This particular Schnauzer health problem is not life-threatening, however, it is something you will want to be aware of and treat. If left untreated, it can spread and aggravate your Schnauzer’s skin, hair, and comfort level.

This condition can occur in all dogs, but it’s so common among Schnauzers that it has come to be known as “Schnauzer bumps.”

The condition is essentially a canine version of blackheads. It is caused by bacteria that infect the hair follicles. When it occurs, your Schnauzer’s hair follicles become irritated and inflamed, potentially filled with an oily residue.

The primary risk with these bumps is that they can become infected if scratched or opened. Keep an eye on them and look for signs of change or infection.

Because this condition is essentially harmless (outside of infection) and simple to diagnose, your veterinarian will mostly likely not need to be involved.

You may want to read my articles What Are Schnauzer Bumps and Can They Be Popped (and Infected)? and 21 Surefire Treatments for Schnauzer Bumps.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
Oily skin Blackish bumps that may look like warts Pain Itchiness Oozing Hair loss around the bump	You will want to purchase a medicated shampoo, bathe your Schnauzer twice a week, and treat each bump topically with rubbing alcohol or witch hazel. Read my article What Are Schnauzer Bumps? (Can They Be Popped and Infected?) for key details and steps.

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Diabetes

Canine Diabetes, or Diabetes mellitus, is actually quite common in all dogs. However, Miniature Schnauzers have a higher than average predisposition to developing the disease.

If your Schnauzer develops diabetes, she will be unable to regulate her sugar metabolism and may require daily insulin injections. As with humans, diabetes in dogs is a very serious condition and your Schnauzer will benefit from an early diagnosis.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS	TREATMENT
Increased eating Increased drinking Increased urinating Weight loss Elevated blood glucose Glucose in urine	Visit your veterinarian if you consistently notice these symptoms. She will conduct labs tests and talk about treatment options such as insulin and dietary changes. Managing canine diabetes requires the same level of commitment and resources as treating human diabetes, but effective treatment will extend her life and quality of living.

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Heart Disease

Miniature Schnauzers are prone to multiple types of heart disease, which can occur both early and later in life.

Although there is no single cause, nutritional problems can play a major role in heart conditions. Aging is the most common reason dogs develop heart conditions, but other factors like heartworm can also lead to heart disease. Veterinary dental care and weight control go a long way in preventing heart disease.

The Two Primary Heart Conditions

Chronic Valvular Disease: A leaking heart valve reduces the quantity of blood that can be pumped around the body.

Myocardial Disease: In this condition, weakness or thickening of the heart muscle results in the heart pumping less efficiently.

Miniature Schnauzers are particularly prone to mitral valve disease, as reported in this longitudinal report.

The report offered by the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare states that “Mitral valve disease is a serious, progressive disease of the heart, caused by the deterioration of one of its valves. It is the most common heart disease of adult dogs and is more prevalent in the Miniature schnauzer than the average dog. It has a serious impact on welfare, causing respiratory and other difficulties, with severe discomfort due to breathlessness and coughing.”

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS

TREATMENT

Factors that can contribute include: Body condition: Overweight dogs are more likely to develop heart disease. Age: Heart conditions in dogs occur more frequently with increasing age. The ultimate result is heart failure, so be alert to the following symptoms for all heart-related conditions: Tired, lack of energy Fainting or collapsing Frequent coughing. (In some cases, a low-pitched cough that sometimes leads to gagging) Breathing difficulties that include shortness of breath Reduced ability to exercise Reduced appetite and/or noticeable weight gain or loss Swelling in the abdomen

Unfortunately, there is no cure for mitral valve disease. However, early detection can give you and your veterinarian options for treatment. For overall heart health, maintain excellent dental health (brush her teeth!), offer a healthy diet, exercise, vaccinations, and annual veterinary check-ups.

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Genetic-Specific Concerns

Miniature Schnauzers suffer several genetic health issues. Most of these health issues affecting Schnauzers can be controlled during breeding. They include cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and liver shunt. If puppies are born with these conditions, you will need to seek veterinary treatment.

How well you take care of your Miniature Schnauzer determines her susceptibility to certain health issues. If you take good care of your Miniature and keep up with annual veterinary check-ups she is likely to stay healthy.

Giant Schnauzers: Common Health Concerns

The Giant Schnauzer has a lifespan of about 10-15 years, and is susceptible to a few health issues such as Gastric Torsion, Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD), and Hypothyroidism (similar to Miniature Schnauzers). This breed may also suffer Canine Hip Dysplasia which is a significant health concern for any dog breed.

The best way to keep your Giant Schnauzer healthy is by taking him for regular thyroid and hip examinations. Studies by Michigan State University have reported approximately 23% of Giant Schnauzers to have hypothyroidism.

The following are some of the common health conditions affecting Giant Schnauzers.

Bloat

Similar to most deep-chested dog breeds, Giant Schnauzers are susceptible to bloat, which is an emergency gastrointestinal condition.

Gastric Dilation-Volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat, is a severe medical emergency.

Bloat is essentially the process of your Schnauzer’s stomach filling with air and his stomach literally twisting. Veterinarians still don’t know if the air causes the twisting, or if the twisting somehow generates a build-up of air.

While there is some debate as to what exactly causes bloat, the complex and deadly series of physical events that follow are fairly straightforward.

When bloat occurs, your Schnauzer’s stomach fills with air and pressure. This prevents blood from the hind legs and abdomen from returning to the heart. As the condition builds, blood pools in the back portion of his body which reduces the working blood volume and sends him into shock.

At some point in the process, his stomach flips and twists up, dragging the spleen and pancreas with it which cuts off additional blood flow. Without oxygen, the pancreas produces some extremely toxic hormones, one of which targets his heart and stops it cold. Even with treatment, the toxic hormone can ultimately stop his heart.

Without treatment, in only an hour or two, your Schnauzer will likely go into shock and his physical reaction will quickly escalate to the point of death.

RISK FACTORS AND SYMPTOMS

TREATMENT

An enlarged abdomen Pain and whining if you press on his belly Retching Salivation Restlessness

Immediate attention can be effective and will involve addressing the shock first, followed by emergency surgery. The surgery will deflate the stomach, remove any portion of the stomach wall that has been damaged, and then possibly tack the stomach to the stomach wall as a preventative measure. Schnauzers fed one meal a day are twice as likely to bloat as those fed two meals a day. Speed of eating is also a factor. Fast eaters have five times the risk than dogs that are slow eaters. Anxiety also seems to have an impact. As a result, feed your Giant Schnauzer two or more smaller meals per day, invest in a feeder that requires effort to slow him down, and feed him away from other pets who may cause additional stress. A final, common sense suggestion is to visit with your veterinarian often if you have any concerns or need additional suggestions for preventing and treating bloat.

Orthopedic Conditions

Orthopedic health problems, especially Hip Dysplasia, are the most reported health concerns among Giant Schnauzers. Other orthopedic diseases affecting Giant Schnauzers include Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy, Osteochondritis, and Panosteitis. All of these conditions result in lameness and pain.

Eye Problems

Giant Schnauzers also suffer eye problems. Retinal Dysplasia and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) are some of the common eye conditions affecting Giants. They also prone to cataracts that may develop while they are still a puppy or at the age of 6-7 years.

Additional Giant Schnauzer Health Concerns

This breed may also have an issue with blood clotting, especially Thrombocytopenia and Willebrand’s Disease.  Giant Schnauzers may also suffer from skin diseases such as Vitiligo, Seborrhea, and allergies.

Some Giant Schnauzers have an issue in producing Vitamin B12, which is vital for body and brain function. These dogs become disoriented and weak; thus, there are needed to supplement the vitamin to keep the dog healthy.

Other common health issues affecting Giant Schnauzers include:

• Heart Disease
• Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
• Epilepsy
• Digital Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Toe Cancer)

Standard Schnauzers: Common Health Concerns

The Standard Schnauzer is the original and oldest of the three Schnauzer breeds, and its origin dates back to the 14th century. Standard Schnauzers generally have a lifespan of 12-14 years. They don’t suffer from any major health problems but is prone to several health issues you should know such as follicular dermatitis, canine hip dysplasia (CHD).

The Standard Schnauzer is considered to be a very healthy dog breed, and they lack some major genetic health conditions that are present in Miniatures and Giants. This doesn’t mean they don’t suffer from any health issues, but that they are less susceptible to most health conditions affecting the other breeds.

The following are some of the common health conditions affecting Standard Schnauzers, all of which have been covered above.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects Standard Schnauzers. It’s a condition that leads to a deformity in the femur joint such that the femur head can’t fit correctly in the hip socket.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a common condition that affects Standard Schnauzers. Although vets are yet to establish the real cause of pancreatitis in this breed, pets that are overweight are more susceptible to the condition, and in most cases, it’s a side effect of surgery. Severe cases of pancreatitis in Standard Schnauzers can result in death, but mild cases can be treated if caught early.

Follicular Dermatitis

Although Follicular Dermatitis isn’t a fatal health condition, it can seriously affect the health of your Schnauzer. The condition leads to irritation, itching, and pimple-like bumps on her skin. The best way to treat the conditions is by using medicated shampoo and making sure your Schnauzer remains clean.

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Ensuring Your Schnauzer’s Health

Schnauzers are a fantastic dog breed that can be one of the best companions to man. Ensuring a long, healthy life isn’t guaranteed, but knowing some of the very real, common, and even scary Schnauzer health concerns can give you and your Schnauzer an advantage.

To ensure the overall health of your Schnauzer, you will also want to read our disease-specific articles:

Your Schnauzer is Prone to Seizures (What to Do)
Do Schnauzers Get Cataracts (10 Eye Problems to Know About!)
Your Schnauzer Has Genetically Bad Teeth (What to Do)
What Are Schnauzer Bumps (Can They Be Popped and Infected?)
Top Reasons Your Schnauzer Shakes (And When to Worry)
Why Does My Schnauzer Have a Fever (And What to Do)
Can Schnauzers Get the Flu or a Cold (And What to Do)

Ultimately, one of the best ways to limit health conditions in Schnauzers is to screen the dogs for genetic diseases during breeding. However, once you have purchased and committed to a Schnauzer, regular veterinary check-ups and screenings throughout life will optimize their chances of staying with you for a long time.

Additional Related Questions:

How Should I Choose a Reputable Breeder? Schnauzers are expensive breeds and come with significant responsibility. The decision to select a breeder and purchase a Schnauzer are important. You can consult the American Kennel Club for a list of registered breeders near you to begin your search. It is also wise to continue learning about the specific Schnauzer breed you are interested in so that you can ask informed questions of breeders. Reputable breeders will be more than willing to meet with you, answer all of your questions, and let you interact with the puppies. A reputable breeder will also have proof and documentation of the Schnauzer’s lineage, genetic health screenings, and an immunizations or training already performed.

How Should I Choose a Veterinarian? The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) evaluates veterinary practices on the quality of their facilities, staff, equipment and patient care. Look to the association for a list of accredited vets in your area. In addition, you should start looking for a veterinarian before you even purchase a Schnauzer. You will want to ensure that the veterinarian is licensed by the AAHA and has a good track record of patient reviews and feedback. You should also visit several veterinarian offices so that you a some comparison points. Ask about what services they provide, the level of expertise of their staff, and which services they can provide at their office as opposed to at an animal hospital. Be sure that the office is clean and well-maintained, and that it feels like a good fit for you and your Schnauzer. You can also change veterinarians if you are not happy with their service.

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