small Breed Dogs
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Miniature Schnauzer
Average Weight: 12 - 15 pounds (5.44 - 6.80 kg)
 Average Height:  12-14  inches (25.4 – 30.48 cm)
Pronounced: Min-E-Ah-Chur  Bulh   SHNOU-zur
Group:  Terrier
Life Span: 14 Years
Average Litter:3
Origin: Germany

Description

The Miniature Schnauzer is often called Mini Schnauzer for short.  In addition, the name gives quite a few people a hard time, often misspelled as schnazer, schanauzer and schnauser. This is a distinct breed from the Standard Schnauzer.

It is characterized by its stocky build, wiry coat and abundant whiskers.  This small dog is a robust, active terrier type.  The head is strong and rectangular, with an unwrinkled forehead.  The topskull is flat and fairly long.  The muzzle is strong in proportion to the skull, ending in a moderately blunt manner, with thick whiskers accentuating the shape of the head.

The small, dark brown oval eyes give a keen expression and the ears may be cropped or uncropped. (Cropping is not legal in many countries). The AKC accepts either. The tail is docked in the United States and to a length that makes it barely visible when looking over the backline of the dog.  This small dog has a double coat; the outer coat is hard and wiry, the undercoat thin and close.

Color

The recognized colors are: Salt and pepper, black & silver and solid black. White is not a desired color in the States, however is accepted in the UK. Per the AKC standard, all colors have even skin pigmentation which mean there is no white or pink skin anywhere on the dog.

Salt and Pepper - Salt and pepper is the most popular color of the Miniature Schnauzer dog . The majority of the hairs are a mixture of black and white banded hairs with some solid black & white unbanded hairs.  A salt and pepper miniature schnauzer can have color that ranges from light to dark, even with tan shadings.  This mixture of schnauzer color fades to a light gray or silvery white in many places on the dog’s body: The whiskers, cheeks, throat, inside ears, chest, tail, and legs (both on the furnishings and inside hind legs).

Black and Silver – With this combination, the black color in the topcoat is a dark, rich color with black undercoat.

Black - Black is the only solid color acceptable in the U.S.  The scissored and clippered areas have lighter shades of black. A small white spot on the chest is permitted, as is an occasional single white hair elsewhere on the body. 

Personality

This is an alert and lively small breed dog who is generally very obedient when given commands.  Typically friendly and willing to please, this breed usually does very well with children.  Active children will have plenty of playtime, as the Mini Schnauzer is hard to tire out. With a rather casual attitude, this dog is not a fighter at all and is rarely aggressive. 

Adapting very well to just about any condition or climate, this dog does well in both city and country living environments.  Not a barker, this dog will usually only be vocal to alert you as he is a very good watchdog.

Origin & History

There are pictures dating back to the 15th century which very closely resemble this small dog breed and is of German origin.  Developed as a small farm dog who could be used as a ratter (used to keep vermin populations under control)  is derived from the Standard Schnauzer.  The very tiny Affenpincher and the Poodle were introduced into the bloodlines, giving us this very popular dog that we know of today.

Health

In general, this is a healthy breed, however some problems to keep an eye out for are:
  • Cushings disease - Over production of hormones which affect many systems in the dog's body - generally considered to be an adult or senior dog disease
  • Hypothyroidism - Commonly known as low thyroid and can be treated with medication to keep the levels correct
  • Pancreatitis - Inflammation of the pancreas
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy - An eye disease that currently does not have a cure and eventually leads to vision loss
  • Urinary tract infection - Treated with antibiotics
  • Mycobacterium avium infection - A relatively new and serious condition belonging to the tuberculosis family
Exercise

 You need to have high activity level to keep up with this little dog.  He loves to run around, play and go for long walks.  When safe to do so, the Miniature Schnauzer loves to be let off of the leash and allowed to run free.  He is quick, playful and also enthusiastic to take on any physical challenge. If you want a partner for jogging or a playmate for children, this may be the dog for you.

Grooming

Regular grooming is important.  When shown, hand stripping will be necessary.  If  an owner  wishes to keep the coat clipped, it grows fairly quickly and will need a trim every 5-8 weeks.  Each week the dog's coat should be brushed very well, making sure to thoroughly go over the beard and legs.  This breed is susceptible to periodontal disease, therefore daily teeth cleanings are more important than ever (recommended for all dogs).

Nails will need to be kept nicely trimmed and short, checked every 8 weeks or so for growth.

Shedding

While many say that this dog does not shed, all dogs do shed (some simply shed so little that it is barely noticeable). Hair follicles die off and new ones grow on all dogs. Therefore this small dog is classified as a no -shedder and is technically a very low shedder.

Care & Training

Dental care and grooming should be top priorities.  Followed by a good, daily exercise routine.  The Miniature Schnauzer is known for doing very well in obedience, however all dogs are individuals.  Being very affectionate and often wanting to sleep in their owner's bed, some training for Separation Anxiety may be needed if the dog does not do well when left home alone.     Owners - Click Here For More Detailed Information




                    
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