Miniature Schnauzer Breed information & Pictures

Miniature Schnauzer Breed Description

Life Expectancy
12-15 years

Learning Rate
High

Litter Size
3 to 6

Size
Small

Weight
Dogs: 11-18 pounds
Bitches: 10-15 pounds

Height
Dogs: 12-14 inches
Bitches: 11-13 inches

Country of Origin
Germany

Groups
AKC Terriers
FCI Group II.: Pinscher and Schnauzer- Molossoid Breeds - Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs
TKC Utility

Other Names
Zwergschnauzer, Dwarf Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, squarely proportioned dog with a long head, bushy beard, mustache and eyebrows. It is an energetic, active dog; it makes a delightful companion for apartment dweller or someone with a small house and yard.

It is charming and attractive; the perky Miniature Schnauzer is seldom addicted to wandering, being devoted to its home and family. It makes an excellent companion to children.

Temperament

This breed demands time and companionship from its owner. It can be fairly dog aggressive; putting on a show of superiority without necessarily intending to fight, which can be fairly dangerous for the Miniature Schnauzer, it will challenge even large dogs, sometimes bringing more trouble on itself than it really wanted.

Socialization with other dogs at an early age is a must. If properly introduced it will get along with another dog, but will not accept every dog that comes its way. Some tend to bark a lot. Some can be reserved with strangers, but most love everyone. It is an excellent watchdog, and mouse catcher. This energetic little dog enjoys long, brisk, daily walks, and loves play sessions off the leash.

Colors

Pure black, or pepper and salt.

Coat

Harsh, hard and wiry, dense undercoat. Brush the wiry coat daily with a short wire brush to prevent matting. The coat should be stripped to prevent it from becoming soft and woolly. Pluck the coat twice a year -in spring and fall; trim around the eyes and ears with a blunt-nosed scissor and clean the whiskers after meals. It has no doggie odor and sheds little to no hair; it is good for allergy sufferers.

Health Issues

Among all dog breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer is most susceptible to cancer, especially toe cancer. They are also prone to epilepsy and hip dysplasia. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. However, to make sure that you get a healthy puppy, you should buy a Miniature Schnauzer puppy from a reputable breeder.

Living Environment

The Miniature Schnauzer is not recommended for people who live in small living quarters. It is ideal for those who have large homes, as they can be active indoors, that likewise have acreage for the dogs to run around in.