Downsides and Disadvantages of Owning a Shmoodle
While the Shmoodle is a charming, affectionate, and intelligent breed that is well-suited for many types of families, there are some potential downsides to consider before bringing one into your home. Understanding these challenges can help you make an informed decision about whether this breed is the right fit for your lifestyle. Here are some of the potential disadvantages of owning a Shmoodle.
Separation Anxiety
As discussed earlier, Shmoodles are highly people-oriented dogs and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. This breed thrives on companionship, and if left alone for too long, they may become stressed, anxious, and potentially destructive.
Symptoms of separation anxiety include excessive barking, whining, chewing on furniture, and even accidents in the house. If you're someone who works long hours or is away from home frequently, a Shmoodle may not be the best choice unless you can provide consistent care or hire a dog walker or sitter.
High Grooming Needs
The Shmoodle's coat is one of its most distinctive features—soft, curly, and hypoallergenic. However, this also means they require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition and prevent matting.
Shmoodles are non-shedding, which is generally great for people with allergies, but it also means they need frequent brushing (at least 2-3 times a week) and regular trips to a groomer every 6-8 weeks.
Matting and tangles can occur quickly, especially if their coat isn't kept up with, which can lead to discomfort for the dog. Their facial hair also requires attention to keep it clean and prevent eye irritation.
For prospective owners who are not prepared to dedicate time to grooming or the cost of regular professional grooming, this could become a burden.
Potential for Health Issues
Like many hybrid breeds, the Shmoodle can inherit health issues from both of its parent breeds. Some common health concerns for Shmoodles include:
- Dental Problems: Small breeds like the Shih Tzu and Maltese are prone to dental issues. Shmoodles can develop gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems if not properly cared for.
- Eye Problems: Due to the parentage of the Shih Tzu and Maltese, Shmoodles may be prone to eye infections or other vision-related issues such as cataracts or conjunctivitis.
- Joint Issues: Shmoodles are small dogs, but like many small breeds, they can develop patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap) or other joint problems as they age.
- Allergies: As a breed that’s known for being hypoallergenic, Shmoodles can still develop skin allergies or other sensitivities to food or environmental factors.
Owning a Shmoodle means you should be prepared for vet visits and potentially higher medical costs, especially if your dog inherits some of these genetic predispositions.
Possible Difficulty with Housebreaking
Although Shmoodles are intelligent and trainable, they can sometimes be stubborn when it comes to housebreaking. Some Shmoodles may take longer than other breeds to get fully potty trained, especially if they are left alone frequently or not consistently supervised.
Accidents in the house can be more common, and positive reinforcement will be essential in helping your Shmoodle learn proper bathroom habits.
Their small bladders also mean that they may need more frequent trips outside, which can be a challenge for busy owners or those without a yard.
Not the Best for Active Owners
While Shmoodles are playful, they are not as energetic as some other breeds, such as Border Collies or Labradors. They enjoy short walks, playtime, and interactive games but are not likely to be up for long hikes or intense exercise sessions.
If you’re an active person who enjoys running, hiking, or other strenuous outdoor activities, the Shmoodle’s lower energy levels may not be the best match for your lifestyle.
They are content with moderate activity, and any physical exercise will need to be short and gentle to avoid overwhelming them.
Vocalisation Issues
Shmoodles, especially those with a Poodle ancestry, can be quite vocal. They may bark to alert you of visitors, passersby, or even just for attention. While not as extreme as some breeds, their vocalisation can become a problem in certain situations, such as in apartment living or if you have neighbours who are sensitive to noise.
If left alone or bored, Shmoodles may bark excessively due to separation anxiety or boredom, which could become an annoyance to both you and those around you.
Cost of Ownership
The cost of owning a Shmoodle can be a consideration for some prospective owners. Aside from the initial purchase price, which can be higher than that of a purebred dog, there are several ongoing costs to consider:
- Grooming: Shmoodles require regular professional grooming, which can add up over time.
- Vet Care: Due to potential health issues and their small size, Shmoodles may require more frequent visits to the vet, particularly as they age.
- Toys and Training: While they are trainable, Shmoodles may require extra patience and investment in training materials or dog trainers, especially when it comes to housebreaking or dealing with separation anxiety.
What Are the Problems with Shmoodles?
While Shmoodles make wonderful pets for many families, there are some challenges to consider:
- Separation anxiety, leading to stress or destructive behaviour if left alone for long periods.
- High grooming requirements, with regular brushing and professional grooming needed to maintain their coat.
- Potential health problems, including dental issues, eye problems, and joint issues.
- Difficulties with housebreaking, particularly with puppies or dogs left alone for extended periods.
- Low energy levels, meaning they may not be the best choice for highly active owners.
- Excessive barking, which can become a nuisance, especially in apartment living.
- Cost of ownership, including grooming, vet care, and training.
Conclusion: Is Owning a Shmoodle Right for You?
The Shmoodle is a delightful and affectionate companion, but it is not without its challenges. If you are prepared to handle their grooming needs, provide consistent companionship, and address potential health concerns, a Shmoodle can be a wonderful addition to your family. However, for those who are not prepared for the time, energy, and financial commitment required to care for this breed, the Shmoodle may not be the best fit.
By understanding and preparing for these potential downsides, you can ensure that your Shmoodle has a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life with you.