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This wonderful and
beautiful dog, the Miniature Schnauzer, has always
been popular with families because of its great
temperament, energy, and physical beauty when
properly groomed. The Miniature Schnauzer will make
a great companion and a good watchdog, especially if
you get your puppy from a reputable breeder who
takes the time to raise his young dogs in an
atmosphere that makes them comfortable around people
and other dogs.
We have put together 10 common questions about the
Miniature Schnauzer and answers for each of them. We
hope this helps with your decision to buy a
Miniature Schnauzer or in your life with your
current pet.
1. What is the history of the Miniature
Schnauzer?
Most information indicates that this breed is a
cross between the Standard Schnauzer, perhaps the
poodle, and the German affenpinscher. The Schnauzer
name comes from the German word for muzzle.
Interestingly, the roots of the breed date back to
the 1800s, when it was developed as a smaller
version of the Schnauzer that could be a house pet
and still hunt down mice and rats.
2. How big does the
Miniature Schnauzer get?
Most adult Miniature Schnauzers will stand about 12
inches to 14 inches at the withers and will weigh
between 10 pounds and 15 pounds.
3. Will the Miniature Schnauzer be a good pet for
a home with children?
Yes, this should be a good choice for a home with
children, due to the breed’s natural playfulness and
affection for people. However, it is best to have
the young dog grow up with the children so they can
adjust to each other. The Miniature Schnauzer can be
suspicious of strangers so this should be kept in
mind when children are around. In addition, this dog
likes to play but may not tolerate too much rough
activity.
4. Will the Miniature Schnauzer be okay in an
apartment?
Yes, a Miniature Schnauzer should be fine in an
apartment or small home, but you should plan to give
your new pet plenty of exercise by walking him on a
leash or allowing him to run in a fenced yard.
5. I have allergies - will the Miniature
Schnauzer be a problem?
Actually, the Miniature Schnauzer may be one of the
best breeds for those who suffer from allergies.
Since this breed sheds very little or not at all,
and is a comparatively clean dog, it is a top
choice.
6. What color and type of coat does the Miniature
Schnauzer have?
The major dog groups and associations recognize salt
and pepper, black and silver, and solid black. A
white Miniature Schnauzer is not accepted by the
American Kennel Club as a standard color.
Additionally, the coat is hard and somewhat wiry,
with a close undercoat.
7. What health conditions should I know about
with a Miniature Schnauzer?
This breed is prone to eye problems, something you
should talk with your breeder and veterinarian about
when buying this type of dog. In addition, the
Miniature Schnauzer can develop diabetes and have
bladder stones. Again, you should get advice from
the breeder and your vet as to diet and other
actions you can take to make this less of a problem.
Miniature Schnauzers also tend to overeat and may
gain weight easily.
8. Does this breed need much grooming?
This dog should be groomed regularly, to keep the
coat smooth and prevent it from matting, something
that many owners leave to a professional groom. You
should brush or comb the coat daily if possible to
keep it from matting and to maintain its shine. A
regular bath is probably a good idea as well,
especially for those dogs that will be seen in
shows.
9. Does the Miniature Schnauzer make a good
outside dog?
Not really intended to be an outside dog, the
Miniature Schnauzer wants and needs to be around
people. It would be best to plan to have your pet in
the house most of the time, giving it exercise time
on a leash or in a fenced yard. This naturally
intelligent breed can become bored and even
destructive if left alone for long periods.
10. What is the best way to potty train my
Miniature Schnauzer?
Everyone seems to have a method preferred, but we
recommend crate training, which teaches the dog
restraint while giving it a safe place to go if he
needs to be alone for a short time. With crate
training, you should take your pet outside early in
the morning and again in the evening. Just be
consistent with this routine.
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