Miniature Schnauzers

Overview of Miniature Schnauzers

• The Miniature Schnauzer is classified as Breed Watch Category 1 meaning that “No visible health concerns have been reported by judges or breed club(s)/council” and currently has no points of concern relating to health “identified for special attention by judges, other than those covered routinely by the Kennel Club Breed Standard.”.
• Miniature Schnauzers may have been developed from the smallest specimens of the Standard Schnauzer, or crosses between the Standard and one or more smaller breeds such as the Affenpinscher, Miniature Pinscher, and Poodles, as farmers bred a small dog that was an efficient ratting dog.
• Miniature Schnauzers have a very square-shaped build, measuring 11 to 14 inches (28 to 36 cm) tall and weighing 10 to 15 pounds (4.5 to 6.8 kg) for females and 11 to 18 pounds (5.0 to 8.2 kg) for males. They have a double coat, with wiry exterior fur and a soft undercoat.
• Miniature Schnauzers have a good reputation around children but they can be a bit wary of strangers.  It has been reported that Miniature Schnauzers don’t really need the company of another dog to keep them happy, they are more than happy spending time with their family.
• Miniature Schnauzers have a double coat that consists of a soft undercoat and a top coat that is hard and wiry.  Grooming usually consists of clipping with an electric clipper or plucking or hand stripping which can be very time-consuming. 
• The miniature Schnauzer is the family guard dog, loyal and devoted.  Their terrier make-up does not allow them to stand back towards bigger dogs, but their nature in general is not to be aggressive, rather loving and devoted. 
• Miniature Schnauzers come in three colours including black, salt and pepper and black and silver.  They have bushy eye brows and both male and female Miniature Schnauzers have long fur around their mouths that looks like a beard.
• The Miniature Schnauzer is generally a healthy breed, but there are some breed specific problems that they can suffer from which include high blood fat levels, inflammation in the pancreas, diabetes and bladder stones.
• Miniature schnauzers do well in canine sports such as agility, obedience, and rally, but can also learn how to do some pretty advanced skills like fetching your shoes or opening doors.
• Miniature Schnauzers have a strong prey drive, so they should never be allowed off leash when not in a fenced area, as they might not resist the urge to chase after small animals.

Barking

As terriers, Miniature Schnauzers, are full of the classic terrier traits, such as chasing anything that catches their eye, barking, digging, being suspicious of strangers, and posturing toward large breed dogs.

Coat

The breed’s two-layered or double coat is wiry on the surface, with a soft undercoat; show dogs require hand stripping, a process where dead fur is manually pulled from the coat, but the average pet only requires a routine trim. Their low-shedding, medium-length coat may not fit the elusive hypoallergenic myth, but the Miniature Schnauzer is a safe choice for pet parents with allergies.

Energy

Mini Schnauzers aren’t generally good swimmers and should be supervised near water. Outdoor Adventures outdoors are the perfect way to run some energy out of the robust Miniature Schnauzer, but they should not be left outdoors without supervision. They may be intolerant of heat. They’re a family-oriented breed and are social with family by nature, so time spent outdoors is best in the company of people.

Health

According to the American Miniature Schnauzer Club, “These are simply undersized Miniature Schnauzers and should not command any type of premium price.” Puppy mills often breed the smallest of litters to acquire these teeny-tiny animals, who commonly have numerous health issues and short lifespans. Many dog breeders claim to produce Toy Schnauzers, even more miniature versions of the breed.

Social

He enjoys joining in on his family’s activities, whether that includes watching television or going out for a run. He is content living in a city apartment as long as he gets enough exercise, or a country estate with large yards to run in. However, this breed is quite alert to squealing noises and quick movements, so it is best to have their interactions with very young children supervised at all times. Human companionship is adequate for the social needs of this breed. In general, Miniature Schnauzers can get along well with children and other household pets as long as they are socialised at a young age. It has been said that this breed does not really need the company of another dog to keep them happy. Miniature Schnauzers are also highly adaptable, easily fitting into his family’s lifestyle. They are happy to play with kids and will learn to protect them.

Temperament

Come on, look at it! Here at Postman Pooch, we recommend the Miniature Schnauzer. Plus, above all else, the dog has one awesome moustache! So if you’re thinking of getting this particular breed of dog, expect lots of cuddles and plenty of attention. Some other names you may have heard being used to describe this breed are: The adorable Miniature Schnauzer is a dog breed that has it all; from acute intelligence to charmingly good looks and superb personality traits. These things look cooler than The Hoff in the eighties; stick a pair of sunglasses on them and you’ll see exactly what we’re talking about!Your Miniature Schnauzer will probably let you too; the breed has a wonderful temperament and absolutely adores human interaction.

Training

Once you establish leadership and your dog has mastered basic obedience, you can continue training your Miniature Schnauzer for more advanced tasks and tricks. This can include agility training, which Miniatures actually excel at.

History of Miniature Schnauzers

• In 1933 the first Miniature Schnauzer was registered with the Canadian Kennel Club, under the breed name of Schnauzer-Pinscher.
• In 1933 the Wirehaired Pinscher Club split into two groups, The American Miniature Schnauzer Club and the Standard Schnauzer Club of America.
• In 1933, the AKC grouped the Miniature and the Standard Schnauzers into two separate breeds.
• In 1933, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Miniature Schnauzer and the Standard Schnauzer as separate breeds.
• In 1934, they were recognized by the AKC in the name Brittany Spaniel, which was further shortened to Brittany in 1982.
• In 1940, the Afghan Hound Club of America was admitted to AKC membership and held its first specialty show.
• In 1945 the Standard Schnauzers were moved out of the terrier group and back into the working group.
• In 1963, the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) granted the breed official recognition.
• in 2008, falling to 17th most popular in 2016.
• In 2012, the miniature schnauzer ranked 13 in the list of AKC popular dog breeds.