Other Names: Zwergschnauzer
Country of Origin: Germany
Dog Group: Utility
A Schnauzer type dog has been represented in art and sculptures as early as the 1400’s. This breed is a result of crossing the Standard Schnauzer with the Affenpinscher and other small breeds. The name Schnauzer was first associated with this breed in 1879. They were recognised as a separate breed in 1899 in Germany and first appeared in America in 1925.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small sized dog. They are sturdy and muscular with an alert outlook. Their eyebrows, moustache and leg hair gives them a very distinctive appearance.
Colour
They can be salt and pepper, black with silver markings, solid black or white in colour. White is not a common colour and is rarely seen in the show ring.
Coat Length
Short/Medium
Age Expectancy
The average lifespan is 14 years.
Weight/Height Range
Ideally dogs should measure 35cms at the withers and weigh 8kgs. Bitches should measure 33cms and weigh 7kgs.
Ailments
There are several conditions that occur in the breed. Breeders are trying to reduce them by careful and responsible breeding and screening where possible.
Common Ailments
Schnauzer comedo syndrome – specific type of follicular dermatitis, Fatty Tumours, Adenomas, Low
Breed Classification
The Miniature Schnauzer is a member of the utility group in Britain and Australia, but in the working group in the United States. They were originally used as ratters; today they are companion dogs
Feeding of this little dog is relatively easy, however care must be taken that they do not become overweight.
Food Cost
$5- 10
Other Expenses
-
The Mini is a lively, active little dog. They can be stubborn and wilful and do need a firm hand when training. They do get on well with children and other household pets if they are introduced at an early age. The Miniature Schnauzer makes an ideal family pet and watchdog. They are quite vocal and will be quick to alert the family of any strangers approaching their territory. The Miniature Schnauzer is the most popular of the three Schnauzer breeds, it also is said to have the best temperament.
Intelligence
The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent dog that is easily trained and likes to please, although it does not enjoy repetitive training for its own sake. The breed is contented and not destructive when left alone.
Energy
Medium
Tendency to bark
Medium
Overall Exercise Requirement
The Mini Schnauzer enjoys exercise and play, and happily fit into their family’s life style
Suitability as a guard dog
Medium
Ease of Transportation
High
Level of Aggression
Low
Other animal compatibility
Medium
The coat of the Mini is harsh, wiry and short with a dense undercoat. All over grooming is required at least twice a week. Hand stripping is a must for the show ring but clipping is straightforward and easy for the smart family pet although the body colour does pale over the years.
Grooming Requirements
> Once a week
Trimming Requred
Occassional
Tendency to shed hair
Little