Miniature Schnauzer Breed Information
The Miniature Schnauzer is a very popular breed with an active and alert attitude that owners find very appealing. This dog is sturdy and squarely built with a great appearance if the coat is well maintained.
The Miniature Schnauzer is most often very friendly and shows a great deal of intelligence. A well bred dog should not show extreme aggressiveness or timidity. Typically, a Miniature Schnauzer should be a great companion, playful and obedient.
Miniature Schnauzers can be an excellent guard dogs or watchdogs because they can be quite protective of family members. Most owners find that their pet is extremely alert and shows little fear.
However, as with many dogs of similar breed, the Miniature Schnauzer will attack vermin such as mice and rats as a natural reaction. It is always best for the new owner to be aware of this possibility and the pet should be kept on a leash or in a fenced yard.
Miniature Schnauzer Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer is a very intelligent, loyal breed, and will be very obedient with some basic training and proper socialization. This breed will be affectionate and friendly to those people it knows and will not exhibit a great deal of aggressiveness if properly bred and raised in the right atmosphere as a young dog.
Many dogs of the breed show a sense of humor that borders on the mischievous and will have a great deal of energy and playfulness with family members. Miniature Schnauzers will do quite well with children if properly socialized as a puppy and if it grows up with the children. Most Miniature Schnauzers will be good watchdogs and will bark when strangers come to the home. Your pet may take some time to become comfortable with strangers the first few times they are around.
Miniature Schnauzer Size and Color
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog, but is anything but delicate. The adult of this breed will stand about 12 inches to 15 inches tall and weigh in the range of 10 pounds to 15 pounds. Then, a healthy adult has a square, solid appearance but the dog should not appear thin or long-legged.
The Miniature Schnauzer is usually a salt and pepper color, or may be black, white, or have a black and silver outer coat. Keep in mind that the American Kennel Club does not recognize the white Miniature Schnauzer – whether this do has albinism remains in question.
Miniature Schnauzer Feeding and Grooming Requirements
The most important activity in grooming the Miniature Schnauzer is regular brushing and combing to prevent the coat from becoming matted. Most experienced owners and breeders will clip their Miniature Schnauzers to an even length twice a year, but you may want to leave this task to someone with experience in dog grooming. The Miniature Schnauzer sheds very little, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Some owners report that their Miniature Schnauzer has minor problems with upset stomach, so we recommend talking with your breeder and/or veterinarian about the best diet for your pet. Many dogs are allergic to the high grain content of cheaper commercial foods, causing the development of dry or itchy skin.
Additionally, purebred dogs can be fed only lean meats and some vegetables in a carefully planned diet that resemble what the owner brings home from the store for the family.
Miniature Schnauzer Exercise Needs
Most of the time, your Miniature Schnauzer will do fine with regular walks on a leash or if given time to play and explore. With proper training, you may be able to give your pet more time off the leash. However, be aware of the tendency of this breed to explore and chase down small animals such as mice and other vermin. This could lead to a pet that runs off and gets lost.
Your Miniature Schnauzer will be fine in an apartment of smaller home, as long as there is time for brisk walks on a leash and outdoor time. A fenced yard is a good place for this outdoor activity because your Miniature Schnauzer will adapt quite well.
Read More About Miniature Schnauzer
- Miniature Schnauzer : 10 Most Common Questions
- Miniature Schnauzer Training Guide
- Miniature Schnauzer Health Guide
- Owning a Miniature Schnauzer : Breeder Recommendations
