Information
- NameMiniature Schnauzer
- Other namesZwergschnauzer (Dwarf Schnauzer)
- OriginGermany
- Size TypeSmall dog breeds
- Breed GroupTerrier dog breeds (AKC)
- Life span12 -15 years
- TemperamentIntelligent, Alert, Friendly, Obedient, Fearless, Spirited
- HeightMale: 12 to 14 in (30 to 36 cm)
Female: 12 to 14 in (30 to 36 cm) - WeightMale : 12 to 20 lb (5.4 to 9.1 kg)
Female: 12 to 18 lb (5.4 to 8.2 kg) - ColorsBlack, White, Black & Silver, Salt & Pepper
- Puppy PriceAverage $500 – $1000 USD
Characteristics
- Good with Kids
- Cat Friendly
- Dog Friendly
- Trainability
- Shedding
- Watchdog
- IntelligenceRanking: 12
- Grooming
- PopularityNo. 12
- Adaptability
- HypoallergenicYes
Overview
The Miniature Schnauzer, as recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), is a terrier dog breed that originated in Germany in the mid-to-late 19th century and is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.
They were originally bred to be ratters—a dog type developed to catch vermin—and guard dogs in farms, and were later on developed by crossbreeding the Standard Schnauzer, with one or more smaller breeds, such as the Miniature Pinscher and Poodle.
The popularity of the Miniature Schnauzer boomed after World War I and has been sought-after ever since.
Apart from their convivial personality, they are also known for having boundless energy and walrus moustaches.
Body Type
Miniature Schnauzers are highly energetic and alert and closely resemble the Standard Schanuzer in disposition.
They have dark brown, deep-set oval eyes and bushy beards and mustaches.
The body is short, square-shaped and defined with deep, well-sprung ribs.
The back is straight and sloped at the base of the tail.
The withers serve as the highest point of the Miniature Schnauzer’s body.
These lively creatures carry their short, thin tails high and erect, although the tails may be docked at a certain length.
The Miniature Schnauzer stands with its forelegs parallel and straight, bridged with a moderately deep brisket.
Elbows are held close, the shoulders sloped and well laid back.
The feet are round and characterized with black pads and arched toes.
The thighs are slanted but muscled, with hocks that extend beyond the tail.
Rear pasterns form a 90 degree to the ground.
Coat
The Miniature Schnauzer is double-coated with a wiry outer coat and close undercoat.
Having slick, overly soft or smooth coat is considered as a fault.
They are minimal shedders.
In fact, they rarely shed at all.
However, regular grooming is required nonetheless.
Brushing should be done two to three times a week, paying special attention on the hair and legs where hair tends to be long.
Remember to wash their beards and mustaches after meals.
Helping the Miniature Schnauzer get accustomed to being groomed and having its paws handled at an early age is encouraged, as this will benefit both you and your pal in the long run.
Color
The AKC accepts three standard colors for the Miniature Schnauzer.
They are the following:
- Black
- Black and Silver
- Salt and Pepper
The club does not recognize any markings.
Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer is incredibly friendly and playful.
They can be warm and affectionate with their families, including kids.
Their friendliness toward other dogs may depend on how much exposure they had playing with other dogs during puppyhood and how well their social skills have developed.
Apart from being sporty and outgoing companions, they also make brilliant watchdogs.
They possess good territorial instincts and are usually trainable, and have the aptitude to compete in activities such as obedience training and dog agility trials.
That said, the breed has a high barking and howling tendency and may seem aloof toward people they are unfamiliar with.
Additional Info
- The first recorded Miniature Schnauzer appeared in 1888. It was a black female creature that went by the name Findel.
- There are three Schnauzer breeds. The Miniature Schnauzer is the most popular.
- The Miniature Schnauzer was originally bred to be a farm dog.
- The dog breed was first registered in the AKC in 1933.
- Their short and round feet are sometimes referred to as “cat paws.”
- The Miniature Schnauzer loves exercise.
- Other nicknames for the Miniature Schnauzer are Reh Pinscher and Mini Pin.
- They are already considered an adult after their first year.