Schnoodle

Schnoodles have an average lifespan of 10–15 years. While considered generally healthy, it is important to remember that Schnoodles are at risk for health issues that affect Poodles and Schnauzers, depending on their specific parentage. Some common orthopedic diseases that can affect them include luxating patellas, hip dysplasia, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Each of these breeds can also carry gene mutations that cause progressive retinal atrophy, diabetes, cataracts, Addison’s disease, von Willebrand’s disease, pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia, urinary stones, idiopathic epilepsy, and GDV (bloat).

The breeds that make up a Schnoodle are also notorious for having hairy ear canals. While this is not always a problem, it can create a complicating factor for repeated ear infections.

Genetic health tests can help pet parents understand a Schnoodle’s health risks, behavior and temperament, and individual needs. With more information, pet parents can help ensure dogs have more opportunities for healthier, happier living. Learn more about what genetic health conditions 

Schnoodles share some characteristics, such as their loveable personality and distinctive snout, but their size, coat color, and coat length and texture are highly dependent on the genes they inherit from each parent. 

Schnauzers have more of a wiry coat while Poodles have a curlier coat, so a Schnoodle can have a wiry, curly, or mixed coat. Coat length can range from medium to long, with appearance depending on the texture.

Schnoodles come in nearly all shades. They can be black, gray, white, cream, apricot, brown, sable, or parti, or they can have mixed coloration that doesn’t fit a specific pattern. Many Schnoodles have long floppy ears that hang down like a Poodle’s, but some have the Schnauzer’s v-shaped ears that bend in half at head height.

Schnoodle sizes vary as much as their coloration. The variations all come down to parental sizing. There are four Schnoodle varieties:

• Toy Schnoodles: These are bred from Toy Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers. They measure 10–12 inches high and weigh 7–15 pounds. 
• Miniature Schnoodles: These are bred from Miniature Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers. They measure 12–15 inches high and weigh 15–30 pounds.
• Standard Schnoodles: These are bred from Standard Poodles and Standard Schnauzers. They measure 15–20 inches tall and weigh 30–50 pounds.
• Giant Schnoodles: These are bred from Standard Poodles and Giant Schnauzers. They measure 20–28 inches tall and weigh 50–85 pounds or more. 

No matter their size, dogs should eat a balanced and complete diet. All dogs are omnivores and need a diet that blends plant-based and meat-based foods. High-quality dry kibble that is balanced and complete—as noted by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) seal on the food bag—is an excellent food source for a Schnoodle, although high-quality wet canned food works as well.

Quantity depends on the size of the dog, their age, and their activity level. To determine the serving size, pet parents should follow the recommended portioning on the kibble package and adjust as needed. Checking in with a veterinarian for specifics on individualized feeding plans and portions can help ensure a Schnoodle gets the right nutrition for their needs.

Thanks to a minimally-shedding coat, Schnoodles don’t create a lot of cleanup for pet parents. However, this breed does need more than zero maintenance for grooming. Schnoodles have longer coats that require weekly brushing to avoid tangles and mats, and they should have regular baths as well. A visit to the professional groomer every 4–6 weeks ensures a tidy coat and clipped nails.  

Schnoodles are moderately active dogs, so they need enough playtime to burn off energy and satisfy their exploration desires. This breed should have daily exercise that caters to their agility and love of jogging and active play. However, they are not hyperactive dogs and equally love downtime with pet parents. 

Training a Schnoodle should begin early during the puppy years. While they are eager to please, they can have a stubborn streak that makes some adult Schnoodles more resistant to obedience training. 

Want to learn more about your Schnoodle dog? Try an Embark Dog DNA Test to learn about your dog’s breed mix, genetic health conditions, shedding habits, and much more!