Thinking about purchasing an Miniature Schnauzer? Then read our breed profile including a brief description, information on height, weight, color, coat, temperament, grooming, activity and history. Purchasing a new puppy is a commitment that may last ten or more years so please educate yourself on the Miniature Schnauzer breed, including all stages of their life from puppy hood to older dog.
Ask yourself will I be a good owner? Do I have the time it takes to train a new puppy? Do I have the resources to give my new dog a rewarding life. Do I have a local veterinarian that I can take my new dog to? Do I have a groomer or can I do the grooming myself on a regular basis. Fundamental requirements for a being a good Miniature Schnauzer owner;
Before making a purchase talk to the breeder, ask them many questions about their dogs and the breed in general. A good breeder will teach you about the Miniature Schnauzer and they will have many questions for you about your home and life style and if this breed is suited for you and your family.
Questions you may want to ask an Miniature Schnauzer Breeder:
It is recommended that you sign a contract with the breeder so that there will be no misunderstandings on the arrangements made. Then bring home your new Miniature Schnauzer and enjoy as "there is no greater love then a dog's devotion."
Miniature Schnauzer Profile
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 Schnauzers 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 ("Zwerg" meaning "dwarf" or "midget"), they were derived from crossing the Standard Schnauzer with smaller dogs, possibly the Affenpinscher and the Miniature Pinscher. Zwergschnauzers are lively, active and fun companions. They are alert, spirited and eager to please. The Mini Schnauzer is loyal and very intelligent, and is accustomed to being the watchdog. They are not trustworthy with smaller animals, however, due to their high prey drive. They do get along well with other dogs and pets of the same size, and are excellent with children. In the past, some Schnauzers have been known to "watch over" children in their spare time. Schnauzers are more of a one-person dog, but can be accustomed to a family. An interesting fact about the Miniature Schnauzer is that they generally don't have any "doggy" smell. Another interesting piece of history is that originally the Schnauzer and the German Pinscher were the same breed. Wirehaired pups would be called Schnauzers (meaning "beard"), while smooth coated pups were called Pinschers. Today they are bred as separate breeds, however. Upbeat and obedient, the Miniature Schnauzer makes a delightful little companion.
Other Names: Zwergschnauzer
Height: 12 - 14
Colors: Pure black,
black and silver or or pepper and salt. They sometimes have markings on the
end of their muzzle, eyebrows, and on the fronts of the legs.
Schnauzers are lively, very friendly, and affectionate. They are very intelligent,
alert and react to quick movements, making them excellent watchdogs. They are
loyal to family and eager to please. They get along well with other people and
other dogs, but not small animals, as they have a high prey drive. They are
spirited, outgoing and demanding of games. The Miniature Schnauzer's disposition
has been bred down to be softer and kinder, with a spunky spark.
Watch-dog: Very High. Schnauzers
react to quick actions around them, making them alert and on the lookout.
Miniature Schnauzer 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. Miniature Schnauzers need long, brisk, daily walks and they love
to play off leash.
Activity: High. Miniature
Schnauzers have energy, and are not likely a lap dog.
Miniature Schnauzer Health Issues: Bladder stones, allergies, diabetes, liver diseases, skin disorders and cysts. They can also have eye problems including PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), melanoma, and myotonia congenita.
Life Span: 12 - 14 years.