The Miniature Schnauzer is a
very popular breed with an active and alert attitude
that owners find very appealing. This dog is sturdy
and squarely built with a great appearance if the
coat is well maintained. The Miniature Schnauzer is
most often very friendly and shows a great deal of
intelligence. A well bred dog should not show
extreme aggressiveness or timidity. Typically, a
Miniature Schnauzer should be a great companion,
playful and obedient.
Miniature Schnauzers can be an excellent guard dogs
or watchdogs because they can be quite protective of
family members. Most owners find that their pet is
extremely alert and shows little fear. However, as
with many dogs of similar breed, the Miniature
Schnauzer will attack vermin such as mice and rats
as a natural reaction. It is always best for the new
owner to be aware of this possibility and the pet
should be kept on a leash or in a fenced yard.
Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer is a very intelligent, loyal
breed, and will be very obedient with some basic
training and proper socialization. This breed will
be affectionate and friendly to those people it
knows and will not exhibit a great deal of
aggressiveness if properly bred and raised in the
right atmosphere as a young dog.
Many dogs of the breed show a sense of humor that
borders on the mischievous and will have a great
deal of energy and playfulness with family members.
Miniature Schnauzers will do quite well with
children if properly socialized as a puppy and if it
grows up with the children. Most Miniature
Schnauzers will be good watchdogs and will bark when
strangers come to the home. Your pet may take some
time to become comfortable with strangers the first
few times they are around.
Size and Color
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog, but is
anything but delicate. The adult of this breed will
stand about 12 inches to 15 inches tall and weigh in
the range of 10 pounds to 15 pounds. Then, a healthy
adult has a square, solid appearance but the dog
should not appear thin or long-legged.
The Miniature Schnauzer is usually a salt and pepper
color, or may be black, white, or have a black and
silver outer coat. Keep in mind that the American
Kennel Club does not recognize the white Miniature
Schnauzer - whether this do has albinism remains in
question.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
The most important activity in grooming the
Miniature Schnauzer is regular brushing and combing
to prevent the coat from becoming matted. Most
experienced owners and breeders will clip their
Miniature Schnauzers to an even length twice a year,
but you may want to leave this task to someone with
experience in dog grooming. The Miniature Schnauzer
sheds very little, making it a great choice for
allergy sufferers.
Some owners report that their Miniature Schnauzer
has minor problems with upset stomach, so we
recommend talking with your breeder and/or
veterinarian about the best diet for your pet. Many
dogs are allergic to the high grain content of
cheaper commercial foods, causing the development of
dry or itchy skin. Additionally, purebred dogs can
be fed only lean meats and some vegetables in a
carefully planned diet that resemble what the owner
brings home from the store for the family.
Exercise Needs
Most of the time, your Miniature Schnauzer will do
fine with regular walks on a leash or if given time
to play and explore. With proper training, you may
be able to give your pet more time off the leash.
However, be aware of the tendency of this breed to
explore and chase down small animals such as mice
and other vermin. This could lead to a pet that runs
off and gets lost.
Your Miniature Schnauzer will be fine in an
apartment of smaller home, as long as there is time
for brisk walks on a leash and outdoor time. A
fenced yard is a good place for this outdoor
activity because your Miniature Schnauzer will adapt
quite well.
