Miniature Schnauzers: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Miniature Schnauzer breed

The Miniature Schnauzer!

The Miniature Schnauzer is evenly proportioned in its small build. It is a furry breed, with bushy facial hair, particularly on the eyebrows, mustache and beard. It has dark elliptical eyes, dark nose, and prominent muzzle, as well as teeth that meet in a scissors bite, and naturally folding or cropped upright angular ears. Its name is derived from the word schnauze, which is the German term for muzzle. This miniature variety was developed in Germany towards the end of the 19th century as a compact farm dog and rat hunter.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years

Energy Level:
Above average.

Living Conditions:
Flexible; outdoors only in moderate to warm weather.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Brisk 20 minute walk and yard play.

Breed Group:
Terrier

Size:
Small

Height:
12 to 14 inches

Weight:
10 to 15 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black, white, a salt and pepper combination, or black and silver.

National breed club:
American Miniature Schnauzer Club

Miniature Schnauzer Skills

Like most other terrier breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer does well at hunting down rats. Nowadays, it is a preferred companion dog, while it also displays talent in tracking, competitive obedience, and carrying out tricks. It is also valued as a watchdog and hunter.

Miniature Schnauzer Personality

This lively dog tends to be quite playful and curious. Although its barking can become a problem, its fun, agreeable, and alert character makes it a great companion in the home. This is one breed that enjoys being involved in activities, particularly with children, and also behaves well around other animals. The Miniature Schnauzer can be bossy towards other dogs, however, and will need proper socialization early on. Although it is very intelligent, it can get stubborn at times.

Exercise Needs

This breed should be allowed to play off-leash and taken on extended walks on a daily basis.

Living Conditions

The Miniature Schnauzer does okay as a housedog and enjoys constant interaction with its people, though moderate activity should be expected from it when left indoors. Access to a yard is not necessary for this breed, though it is physically capable of living outside under moderate to warm weather.

Grooming Requirements

The Miniature Schnauzer’s thick coat must be brushed or combed on a daily basis to prevent matting, while knots found in its coat must be clipped out. The breed almost never sheds hair. A maintenance clipping must be done semiannually, particularly during autumn and spring, to keep the coat in uniform length. The facial hair may also be trimmed to bring out the distinct square build of the breed.

Health Issues

Miniature Schnauzers tend to be healthy, though some may have inherited eye ailments. They may also be susceptible to kidney and liver problems, diabetes, cysts, and skin ailments. The breed is also quick to gain weight.

If you liked this dog…

...then you might like the slightly bigger Irish terrier which has the same playfulness and watchdog ability as the Miniature Schnauzer.