Miniature Schnauzer

Description: The Miniature Schnauzer is an energetic, active dog who has clean habits, is neat in size and makes a delightful companion for apartment dwellers or someone with a small house and yard. Charming and attractive, the perky Miniature Schnauzer are seldom addicted to wandering, being devoted to their home and family. Miniature Schnauzers are excellent family pets and children’s companion. Known in their native Germany as the Zwergschnauzer, they were derived from crossing the Standard Schnauzer with smaller dogs.

Other Names: Zwergschnauzer

Type: Terrier

Height: 13 – 14 inches Weight: 13 – 15 lbs

Colors: Pure black, or pepper and salt. Coat: Harsh, hard, and wiry.

Temperament: Miniature Schnauzers are lively, very friendly, affectionate With Children: Yes With Pets: Yes  Special Skills: Vermin destroyer, watchdog and family pet.

Watch-dog: Very High Guard-dog: Low

Care and Exercise: Brush or comb the wiry coat of the Miniature Schnauzer daily or it will become matted. Clip out knots. Miniature Schnauzers should be clipped all over twice a year. Trim around the eyes and ears with blunt-nosed scissors and clean whiskers after meals. Needs long, brisk, daily walks and loves to play off leash. Training: Needs a confident handler who is fair and consistency. Miniature Schnauzers have a mind of their own and need variety as opposed to repetition. Learning Rate: High, Obedience – Medium, Problem Solving – Medium

Activity: High Living Environment: City or country they are an ideal pet for any setting.

Health Issues: Bladder stones, liver diseases, skin disorders and cysts.

Life Span: 12 – 14 years Litter Size: 3 – 6

Country of Origin: Germany History: Miniature Schnauzers actual roots are uncertain, but their is speculation that the black Poodle, the wolf-spitz and a rough coated German Terrier are breeds which may have played a part in their early development. They were primarily used for herding, protecting the flocks as well as a watchdog.

First Registered by the AKC: 1926 AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group Class: Non-Sporting Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 2), KC (GB), UKC