Lifespan of Miniature Schnauzers
A breed that is prized for both its keen intelligence and its loyalty to its owners, the miniature schnauzer is one of the most recognizable breeds available. Since this particular breed is on the smaller side, it tends to have a longer lifespan than its larger counterparts–the standard schnauzer and the giant schnauzer.
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Average
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The average lifespan of the miniature schnauzer tends to be 9 to 15 years. However, there have been some instances of miniature schnauzers only living for a couple of years and other instances where a miniature schnauzer has lived to be 18 years old.
Factors
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Factors that need to be considered when thinking about the lifespan of the miniature schnauzer range from genetic to diet to any medical conditions that might occur. Even miniature schnauzers who come from the same litter might wind up with varying lifespans, depending on outside conditions.
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Extended Lifespans
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In order to make sure that the miniature schnauzer has the longest possible lifespan, it is important to take proactive measures. These include providing a high quality diet as well as proper medical attention throughout its lifetime.
Spaying/Neutering
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One of the ways that the lifespan of a miniature schnauzer can be extended is by spaying or neutering the dog. As a schnauzer gets older, it is more likely to become susceptible to certain diseases, such as various cancers, but spaying or neutering tends to cut down on the incidence of specific cancers.
Weight
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Because miniature schnauzers tend to be indoor dogs who spend a great deal of time with their owners, it can be easy for them to become overweight, because of a sedentary lifestyle. By making sure that the dog maintains a healthy weight, the chances of a longer lifespan are increased. Since schnauzers (of all sizes) are susceptible to developing diabetes, keeping the dog at a reasonable weight will greatly cut down on the risk of diabetes.
Exercise
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Miniature schnauzers, as with all other dogs, can have an extended lifespan through regular exercise. By maintaining a rigid cardiovascular exercise routine, the miniature schnauzer will be less likely to suffer from such issues as kidney failure or cardiac disease.
Annual Checkups
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Having a veterinarian examine the miniature schnauzer on an annual (or semi-annual) basis is a reasonable way to provide the dog with the longest possible lifespan. Have blood work done and his teeth cleaned annually.
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References
- Photo Credit miniature schnauzer image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
