Are Standard Schnauzers healthy?

• Hip and/or elbow dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from properly meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Unlike in hip dysplasia, where the main problem is joint instability, the abnormalities seen in elbow dysplasia often result in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis.

• Follicular dermatitis: This skin condition is relatively benign and very similar to acne in humans. In dogs, the bump is usually caused by an inflamed hair follicle. Just like a human pimple, the bump will swell and release a discharge. Sometimes, the bumps become infected and could cause hair loss or weaken the immune system.