The Schnau Tzu: A Complete Guide to the Miniature Schnauzer Shih Tzu Mix

The Schnau Tzu is an adorable, affectionate designer dog breed crossed between a purebred Miniature Schnauzer and Shih Tzu. Combining some of the best traits from each parent breed results in a loyal, good-natured companion dog well-suited for apartment living. While Schnau Tzus have grown in popularity in recent years, they are still a relatively rare mixed breed.

Whether you‘re considering adding a Schnau Tzu puppy to your family or are simply curious to learn more about this charming hybrid dog, our in-depth guide covers everything you need to know – from the breed‘s history and personality to grooming, training, health and care requirements.

Schnau Tzu History and Origins

Like most designer dog breeds, the origins of the Schnau Tzu are not well-documented. It‘s thought the first intentional crosses between Miniature Schnauzers and Shih Tzus occurred in the United States sometime in the late 1990s or early 2000s, as the "doodle" mixed breed craze started taking off.

Both parent breeds have long, distinguished histories:

The Miniature Schnauzer was developed in Germany in the late 19th century as a smaller version of the Standard Schnauzer bred for ratting and guarding farms. The breed is known for its intelligence, courage and protective nature.

Shih Tzus are an ancient breed, tracing back to Tibet over 1,000 years ago where they were favored as holy companion dogs by monks and royalty. The modern Shih Tzu is a happy, outgoing lap dog renowned for its long silky coat and friendly personality.

Crossing these two purebreds results in a small-sized, moderately active companion dog that is playful yet not overly yappy – an ideal mix of traits for apartment or condo living. However, each Schnau Tzu is a unique combination of characteristics from their parent breeds.

Schnau Tzu Appearance and Size

Schnau Tzus are small dogs, typically weighing between 7 to 15 pounds and standing 5 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown. Their face and head shape tends to favor the Shih Tzu, with a short muzzle, dark round eyes, and floppy ears. The body is compact and sturdy.

Coat type and color varies. Some Schnau Tzus inherit the Miniature Schnauzer‘s wiry double coat, others have the Shih Tzu‘s long silky hair, and many fall somewhere in between with a medium-length soft coat. Common coat colors include black, white, brown, and silver, often with markings.

Schnau Tzu Temperament and Personality

Schnau Tzus are good-natured, affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. They are happiest when surrounded by their family, following their owners from room to room. This devotion and desire to be close to their humans makes them prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

This breed is friendly and outgoing with people, including strangers and children. They tend to get along well with other dogs and cats in the household, especially if socialized from a young age. Schnau Tzus are moderately active indoors and enjoy playtime, but they are not overly excitable or "yappy" compared to some small dog breeds.

While each individual dog‘s personality is a unique mix of nature and nurture, most Schnau Tzu owners describe their dogs as:

• Loving and devoted to family
• Intelligent and trainable
• Playful yet not hyperactive
• Good with kids and other pets
• Adaptable to apartment/condo living
• Sometimes stubborn or strong-willed
• Prone to separation anxiety

With proper socialization and training, Schnau Tzus can make wonderful companions for many types of households. They may not be ideal for owners who work long hours away from home each day.

Grooming a Schnau Tzu

Schnau Tzus typically have moderate grooming needs, but this varies depending on whether they inherit more of the Shih Tzu‘s long, silky hair or the Miniature Schnauzer‘s wiry double coat. Either way, plan on brushing your Schnau Tzu at least a few times per week to prevent painful mats and tangles. Many owners opt to keep their dog‘s coat clipped short, especially in the summer months.

In addition to regular brushing, Schnau Tzus need occasional bathing, nail trims, and ear cleanings. Small crusty tears stains can form around the eyes, so wipe the area with a damp cloth or dog eye wipe as needed. Dental care is important for all dogs, so brush your Schnau Tzu‘s teeth a few times a week or provide dental chews to prevent tartar buildup.

Schnau Tzu Training and Exercise Needs

The Schnau Tzu is a smart dog that responds well to positive reinforcement training techniques. Start socialization and basic obedience training early, as this mixed breed can inherit a stubborn streak and independent mindedness. With consistent training and clear boundaries, however, Schnau Tzus are very trainable.

As for exercise, Schnau Tzus have moderate activity needs that are easy to meet with indoor playtime and a couple short daily walks. Aim for 30-60 minutes of exercise per day, broken up into a few sessions. These dogs are adaptable to many living situations and do not require a yard.

Mental stimulation is equally important for this clever breed, so provide plenty of puzzle toys, interactive games, and opportunities for sniffing and exploring on walks. This will help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Schnau Tzu Health and Care

Schnau Tzus are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. As with all breeds, however, they can be prone to certain hereditary health issues. Potential health concerns to be aware of include:

• Dental disease
• Luxating patellas
• Eye problems like cherry eye, cataracts, and dry eye
• Respiratory issues like tracheal collapse
• Skin allergies
• Bladder stones
• Portosystemic shunt

Not every Schnau Tzu will develop these issues, but it‘s important to work with a reputable breeder who health tests parent dogs and to schedule regular vet check-ups throughout your dog‘s life.

To keep your Schnau Tzu happy and healthy, feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their life stage, maintain a healthy weight, keep up with preventative care like vaccinations and parasite control, and address any health concerns promptly.

Is a Schnau Tzu Right For You?

Schnau Tzus can make wonderful companions for the right owner and living situation. They are best suited for households where someone is home for most of the day, as they crave human companionship and can develop separation anxiety. With their small size, moderate exercise needs, and generally quiet nature, Schnau Tzus adapt well to apartments and condos.

Consider a Schnau Tzu if you:

• Want a small, affectionate companion dog
• Can provide plenty of attention and interaction
• Enjoy moderate daily walks and indoor play sessions
• Don‘t mind regular brushing and grooming
• Have experience with positive reinforcement dog training

On the other hand, a Schnau Tzu may not be the best fit if you:

• Work long hours away from home
• Want a guard dog or highly protective breed
• Prefer a dog with minimal grooming needs
• Don‘t have time for daily walks and play sessions
• Live in a very active, loud, chaotic household

Finding a Schnau Tzu

Schnau Tzus are still a relatively rare mixed breed, so you may need to search beyond your local area to find a puppy or rescue dog. Start by researching reputable Schnauzer and Shih Tzu breeders who may occasionally have mixed breed litters or know of other Schnau Tzu breeders.

Joining Schnauzer and Shih Tzu breed-specific social media groups and online forums is another way to connect with Schnau Tzu owners and breeders. Let group members know you are seeking this mix.

You can also search for Schnau Tzus on pet adoption websites and contact local animal shelters and rescue organizations to express interest in this mixed breed. Many rescue groups allow you to submit an application to be notified when a certain breed becomes available for adoption.

Whether you choose to work with a breeder or adopt a Schnau Tzu, ask lots of questions and be prepared to wait for the right dog. Avoid pet stores and online ads for this designer breed, as these puppies often come from backyard breeders or puppy mills. A reputable breeder or rescue will health test parent dogs, provide a written contract, and allow you to visit their facility.

Final Thoughts

The Schnau Tzu is a charming, good-natured mixed breed dog that combines some of the most endearing traits from the Miniature Schnauzer and Shih Tzu. While no two Schnau Tzus are exactly alike, you can expect a loyal, affectionate companion dog that will thrive as part of a loving household.

If you can provide a Schnau Tzu with plenty of attention, socialization, training, and care, you will be rewarded with a devoted canine companion for many years to come. While adding any dog to your life is a big commitment, the love and joy a Schnau Tzu brings makes it all worthwhile for the right owner.