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 Pincher. 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 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.
Height: 12-14
inches.
Weight:
13-18 Ibs.
Colors: Pure black, black and silver or pepper and salt. They
sometimes have markings on the end of their muzzle, eyebrows, and on the fronts of the legs.
Coat:
The double coat is harsh, hard, and wiry with a short undercoat.
With Children:
Yes, good with children
Care and Training: 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.
Learning Rate:
High. Obedience - Medium. Problem Solving - Medium.
