Do Miniature Schnauzers have health problems?

• Bladder issues: The Miniature Schnauzer is strongly susceptible to bladder stones because the urinary tract in this breed is genetically weak. Bladder infections are thus quite common.

• Portosystemic liver shunt: Portosystemic shunt (PSS) is a hereditary issue that obstructs proper blood flow to the liver. Since the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, PSS sends the toxins in unfiltered blood to the heart, brain, and other body parts. Signs can include but are not limited to behavioral changes, loss of appetite, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), jaundice, urinary tract problems, vision problems, and stunted growth. PSS can be life-threatening if not treated early. Antibiotics and diet changes can help in the short term, but surgery is the only permanent treatment for the problem.

• Von Willebrand’s disease: Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder seen in dogs. It happens when a dog does not produce enough of a specific protein that helps the blood cells used in clotting stick together. This results in dogs that are unable to clot properly and could cause hemorrhages or other bleeding issues. The deficient protein is called von Willebrand factor (vWF).

• Eye issues: Miniature Schnauzers are prone to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), glaucoma, and cataracts, which can all lead to blindness.

• Myotonia congenita (MC): This condition is a hereditary skeletomuscular disorder similar to muscular dystrophy, which dogs can show signs of when they are just a few weeks old. Myotonia congenita is characterized by abnormal muscle stiffness that makes it difficult for a dog to get up. Aside from muscle stiffness, you may notice that your dog has a strange gait or enlarged tongue. Dogs with this condition’s muscles contract repeatedly and many dogs will have prominent muscles in their shoulders and thighs. Though this is primarily a genetic disorder, there are other conditions that can lead to MC. Once diagnosed, a veterinarian will prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms.

• Hyperlipidemia: This condition causes increased levels of lipids (or fats) in the blood. The lipids consist of triglycerides, cholesterol, or both. The excessive fat molecules in the body can lead to fatty deposits in the skin and eye areas and may eventually cause more serious conditions, such as nerve paralysis and seizures. Hyperlipidemia can present itself as a primary or secondary condition. Take your dog to the vet if you see any of the following symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, yellow plaques (or deposits) near the eyelids, pancreatitis, anemia, seizures, and behavioral changes.

• Others: Miniature Schnauzers are also prone to ear infections, atopic dermatitis, hypothyroidism, and diabetes. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend imaging, bloodwork, and eye tests for your dog.