Wowauzer Dog Breed

The Wowzer dog breed is a hybrid, so it's not an official member of any breed group--but both parent breeds are in the Terrier group in most clubs, so these hybrids would certainly fit into that category. Neither does any info exist about the Wowauzer's specific origin; though a Welsh Terrier-Miniature Schnauzer mix may have existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has been credited with its creation. These enthusiastic little dogs make excellent pets for active families, and will great with kids with some socialization.

A few Wowauzer facts: they're small-sized, averaging 14 inches at the shoulders in height and 17 pounds in weight; they have medium-length, wiry, double-layered coats that don't shed much; and they're very energetic and will need a good bit of exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Miniature Schnauzer-Welsh Terrier mix:

As the offspring of two fun-loving, bold terrier breeds, the Wowauzer is an entertaining, playful companion. A small-sized hybrid, the Wowauzer stands 13-15 inches in height and weighs 15-20 pounds, and has a wiry, low-shedding coat that usually comes in multi-colored patterns. The coats will need regular grooming to keep them from tangling and matting, and it's best if they're hand-stripped several times per year.

In terms of temperament, Wowauzers are usually friendly and enthusiastic, and will make great family pets. They normally get along well with kids and other pets--but they do have high prey drives, and will instinctively chase small animals (and since the parent breeds are vermin hunters, Wowauzers may try to catch and kill any rodents in the house!). It's best if these dogs grow up alongside any children and other pets so they'll be used to each other's company. Overall, owners will need to provide obedience training and socialization (starting during puppyhood, if possible) to teach their Wowauzers respectful behavior.

Wowauzers can also have their stubborn sides, which might make them a bit difficult to train--but they're also intelligent and willing to please, so they may learn things easily. They're also alert and protective, which makes them good watchdogs; Wowauzers will usually bark to alert their owners if they perceive unknown sights or sounds.

Wowauzers have high energy levels, too, and will need a good bit of physical activity throughout the day to keep them from getting hyperactive and destructive.

The Wowauzer, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits from its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, a few Wowauzers may suffer ailments including various eye issues (them most serious of which is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA), hypothyroidism, and assorted allergies. Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for Wowauzers is 11-14 years.