Meet the Breed: The Miniature Schnauzer

Black Schnauzer puppy.

Overview:

• Height: 12″-14″
• Weight: 11-18 pounds
• Historical Function: Ratters
• Modern Function: Companion
• AKC Classification: Terrier

Physical Characteristics:

The miniature Schnauzer is a small yet sturdy square dog. They are named for their "schnauz" or muzzle. They also have striking eyebrows. The ears and tail are often docked. If docked, the ears form upright points. If left natural, they fold over. Coat color may be black, white, salt and pepper, or silver and black.

History of the Breed:

The miniature Schnauzer is German bred, and was bred down from the Standard Schnauzer in the late 1800's. The smaller size made them handy as ratters around the house and in barns.

Temperament:

Schnauzers are friendly, and outgoing. They are smart, and trainable, and easy to travel with. They have a good territorial instinct and can be good watch dogs. Their high prey drive means they may chase cats, but this can be trained out. This drive can be channeled into fetch and other games.

• Best suited for: families with children, active senior citizens, apartment dwellers, and allergy sufferers.
• Preferred living conditions: They love to have a yard but can adapt to an apartment if given plenty of exercise through play and walks. They are very social and intelligent, and they very much want to be with their people.

Care and Health:

• Grooming Requirements: Miniature Schnauzers shed very minimally, but they require regular brushing to prevent mats. They may require a visit to the groomer for a stripping twice yearly or are more regularly shaved short on the back and kept slightly longer on the lower abdomen and legs. The silver and gray-haired versions tend to have wire-haired texture while the black ones are more silky.
• Exercise needs: Miniature Schnauzers will find their own methods of staying active, even if you don't. These active dogs love to play and prefer a daily walk.
• Life Expectancy: 15 years and does not show signs of aging until late in life.
• Health Concerns: Generally healthy but may be prone to liver disease, kidney stones, diabetes, skin disorders, von Willebrand's disease and cysts. Also hereditary eye problems. Gains weight easily, do not over feed.

Breed Club Links: American Miniature Schnauzer Club BaxterBoo.com Perfect Pairings: Baxter loves everything at BaxterBoo.com!

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Featured photo by Christopher Macsurak.