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One of the questions that many people are asking themselves today is “Why should I spend the money to buy a pure bred dog, when I can get a dog from the shelter for a lot less money?”  It is a good question, since purchasing a dog involves a great monetary commitment and should be carefully considered.  There are a number of questions that must be answered before making that commitment. For example:      

      First, what are my requirements regarding size?  Do I want a small dog or a large dog?  If I require a small dog, what guarantee will I have that the cute puppy at the shelter is going to be 12-14 inches and no more than 20 pounds?  I have no guarantee with a mixed breed dog, because even if the mother is a small dog, the father is likely unknown and he provides half the size genes.

     Now, do I need a dog that doesn’t shed, because someone in my family has allergies?  Well there is a short list of dogs who have “hair” rather than “fur” and accordingly do not shed.  Schnauzers, poodles, and a few curly coated dogs are among those breeds.  How do I know that the mixed breed puppy has those breeds in him and will grow up non-shedding?  I don’t.

     The most important issue is health.  There is a popular misconception that mixed breeds are “healthier” because they haven’t been “in-bred” and are genetically stronger.   We say “misconception” because the reality is that mixed breed dogs are just as likely to have genetic problems as pure bred dogs. Most genetic defects are species specific, not breed specific.This means that a mixed breed dog whose parents both carry the gene for cataracts, for example, will just as likely have cataracts as the pure bred dog.  There are numerous scientific organizations today who are engaged in research to identify the genes that cause many of the problems that plague the dog world.  Organizations such as the American Miniature Schnauzer Club have contributed thousands of dollars to pay for the research that is currently underway.  Scientists have mapped the canine genome and there are many gene tests on the market today available to breeders of pure bred dogs.

     Obviously, not every breeder of pure bred dogs is going to make use of all available tests, but the members of the American Miniature Schnauzer Club are encouraged and even rewarded for testing all breeding stock.  You might say we have a vested interest in breeding and maintaining the healthiest dogs we can have.

     In conclusion, the members of the the Central Florida Miniature Schnauzer Club are available to answer any questions that you have about this wonderful breed.  Whether you decide to buy a puppy or find a needy dog in rescue, it is a good investment.