Dog Breeds > Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is one of the most popular dogs, ranking at 11th in America’s most popular dog breeds. They are quite small, short and square in build with distinct beard-like fur running down their chins. They don’t shed as much as one would think because of their hairy appearance, and with their high energy levels and playfulness might be the perfect dog for you and your family.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

The Miniature Schnauzer was used for hunting rats, acting as “shields” to rat hunters in the 1920’s. Today, while your miniature schnauzer might still have the instinct to hunt rats, they make better companions than “rat shields.”

Physical Appearance

The Miniature Schnauzer usually grows as tall as 14 inches and weighs 11-15 lbs. Their body build could be described as square-like, they are short and their double coat might give the impression that they are fat. The colors that they can come in are black, white, salt and pepper and black and silver.

Grooming

Miniature Schnauzers generally need to their hair to be trimmed regularly and need to undergo “stripping” to remove any matted, dead fur. Stripping is something hard to do and you might like going to a pet groomer to have this done instead. It isn’t easy keeping them clean since they are also playful and might get dirty when horsing around.

Mood

The miniature schnauzer is a very smart dog, and with proper care, affection and firmness, you will have a very affectionate pet that absolutely loves to play and go on walks. You have to be gentle yet firm when commanding this dog, as they will show dominance if they sense that their owner can be “pushed around.” You won’t have trouble taking this dog around with you, as with proper socializing they can get along with other dogs very well. Since their nature includes hunting rats, it wouldn’t be advised to keep them with other smaller animals such as rabbits and gerbils.

With Children

The Miniature Schnauzer is a very playful, energetic dog and can be a loving and playful pet. They are very sociable and will no doubt get along well with your kids. Since they have high levels of energy, they can play for hours. They are also great watch dogs and might get defensive if they sense that danger is around their humans.

Training & Exercise

The Miniature Schnauzer needs an authoritative owner for him to obey. They need to know that they are not “leader of the pack.” Being gentle and firm is key to making sure your intelligent Miniature Schnauzer will listen to your commands.

Moderate exercise would be enough for this energetic breed, but they wouldn’t mind going the extra mile and doing long walks and having extra exercise hours of playing in the yard.

Health & Life Expectancy

The Miniature Schnauzer’s life span usually goes as long as 15 years with proper care and nutrition. They are prone to health problems that are related to being too fat, so their diet should be well-monitored. The tufts of hair in their ears also need to be dry at all times to make sure it is not susceptible to infection.

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