What is a Miniature Schnauzer Dog Breed?
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog breed originally from Germany. Due to its temperament and relatively small size, it is the most popular Schnauzer breed and is one of the most popular in the world.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly, lively, intelligent, alert and generous dog. He also gets along with other animals better than most terriers, but will happily chase them. They are excellent watchdogs because they value family and home.
Content Overview
- History
- Different names
- Appearance and Characteristics
- Personality and Temperament
- Health & problems
- How to take care
- Puppy Information
- Puppy price
- Things to consider adopting a puppy
- Advantages & Disadvantages
- Photo gallery
Miniature Schnauzer Dog History
The history of the Miniature Schnauzer in Germany first appears in documents from the late 19th century. They were initially developed in Germany as medium-sized farm dogs that could be used for both herding and guarding real estate.
In 1888 the Miniature Schnauzer made its debut. In 1926, two years after the Miniature Schnauzer was brought into the country, the American Kennel Club approved the registration of the new breed. The AKC, UKC and CKC place the miniature schnauzer in the terrier group.
The Miniature Schnauzer breed is credited with beginning in the United States in 1924 with the importation of four German dogs. In 1926, the AKC officially recognized the Miniature Schnauzer as a breed.
In the US, the Miniature Schnauzer was the 11th most popular breed in 2008; By 2016, they had slipped to 17th place.
Different names or Types
Miniature Schnauzer Dog other names
- Zwergschnauzer
- Charlie
- Rocky
- Bella
- Gracie
Recognized Names
Recognitions
- ACA: American Canine Association Inc
- ACR: American Canine Registry
- AKC: American Kennel Club
- NAPR: North American Purebred Registry
- NKC: National Kennel Club
- UKC: United Kennel Club
- CKC: Canadian Kennel Club
- DRA: Dog Registry of America
Appearance & Characteristics
The Miniature Schnauzer has a very square build and ranges from 11 to 14 inches in height and 11 to 20 pounds in weight. They have a double cap with smooth inner and outer pelage.
The image of the Schnauzer as a stationary dog is often applied to them, and while this is not entirely accurate, their movements are generally few and far between. That is why the Schnauzer is considered a mythical breed.
They have oblong heads with barbs, bigots and seja; Diantes joined together to form “Tijerana Mordida”; dark eyes that are oval in shape; and V-shaped teeth that naturally curve upwards. Finally, these teeth form aphids.
Their ears are naturally short and lean and can be cropped. In addition, they will have short, redundated pecs with ghastly and black Almohadilla as well as very straight, angular shoulders.
Breed Basic Characteristics
- Country of origin: Germany
- Breed group: Terrier
- Life span: 12-15 years
- Size: Small
- Height: 11-14 inch
- Weight: 11-20 Pound
- Coat: Wiry, Medium
- Type: Purebred
- Shedding: infrequent
- Colors: Black, Pepper and Salt, Black and Silver
- Also as known: Zwergschnauzer
- Good with children: Yes
- Personality traits: Outgoing, Playful, Friendly
- Good with pets: Yes
- Barking: Frequent
- Competitive registration: AKC, UKC, ACR, ACA, DRA, NKC, CKC
- Eyes: They have shiny, dark brown eyes.
- Ears: Their ears are pointed.
- Body: The body is short and deep and relatively almost square.
Coat
The double crest on the Miniature Schnauzer is made up of a brown inner crest and a thick, outer crest. Their coats are kept short on the body, but preserved on the ears, paws, neck and face. Acceptable clothing colors are black, pimento and salt, black and silver, and pure white.
Color and Markings
Common coat colors for this Breed include.
- Salt & Pepper
- Black & Silver
- Solid Black.
Coat Color and Markings
Miniature Schnauzers have a medium-length double coat, or two layers of coats: a soft undercoat and a hard wiry top coat. Three color patterns are available for the stiff, wiry coat: salt and pepper, black and silver, and pure black.
Personality and Temperament of Miniature Schnauzer
Despite their small size, the Miniature Schnauzer behaves like a giant dog in a small package in many respects. This breed is very kind and strict. They feel a strong bond with their community. Miniature Schnauzer dogs generally get along well with children.
Small dogs who are always at play love them. Young children, in particular, often play very rough with small dog breeds, although parents should teach their children how to play gently with small dogs. Because of their friendliness, miniature schnauzers often get along well with other animals.
Miniature Schnauzers are so strongly attached to their families that they shy away from newcomers to the home. They are generally easy to train, effective watchdogs with strong territorial instincts, although they are more bark than bite.
They are very lively dogs, and if their energy is not properly channeled, they can get bored and find their own “fun”. Because of their high prey drives, schnauzers often chase other small animals. Cannot, and should not, be released while outside the enclosed area.
Activity Requirements
The Miniature Schnauzer is an active breed of dog and needs daily exercise. He ought to take 3–4 little walks each day in addition to a 60–minute lengthy stroll. If you enjoy covering large distances by running or walking,
Miniature Schnauzers are vivacious and alert dogs who require daily exercise to stay in good physical and mental health. They are capable of living in either the city or the country and have a modest amount of energy. This breed benefits from having a secure yard where they can play with their owner and securely run and chase after balls.
Being with his family and participating in things with them brings him the most delight. Since miniature schnauzers have a strong instinct to hunt, they should never be left unattended outside of a fenced area since they are unable to control their desire to chase tiny animals.
Trainability
This strong terrier-type dog is a rapid learner, very bright, muscular, and extroverted. They are quick learners and sociable, vivacious, and eager to please. Because of the breed’s great intellect, training must be kept exciting and engaging because repetition might dull them.
From a young age, they should be socialized, and puppy training sessions are advantageous for both the owner and the dog. The Miniature Schnauzer is a wonderful companion and excels in agility, obedience, rally, and earthdog competitions among other dog activities.
Health & Problems
The miniature schnauzer has a lifespan of 12 to 15 Years, and in general, this breed is considered quite healthy. Training can help prevent many of their common health problems.
Miniature Schnauzers are often a healthy breed. Certain diseases can be detrimental to the breed, including cataracts, hyperlipidemia, pancreatitis, liver shunts, and kidney stones.
Breeding stock will be screened by ethical breeders for health problems that may affect the breed. Dental care is an important component of general wellness.
Diabetes: Miniature Schnauzers are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than other breeds. An underlying illness may be its root.
Myotonia: Muscle contraction is permanent in schnauzers with myotonia congenita, a hereditary muscle condition.
Pancreatitis: The dangerous disorder known as pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas can be brought on by obesity, hypothyroidism or hereditary predisposition.
Feeding Plan
The average mature weight of a Miniature Schnauzer is 20 pounds. A Miniature Schnauzer that is in good health should eat a diet that meets their caloric and nutritional needs.
Half a cup of dry dog food should be fed twice daily by adult Miniature Schnauzers. Insist that puppies eat less food. But they should do this three to four times a day. It is not advisable to skip meals throughout the day.
Along with other fruits and vegetables, Schnauzers also love carrots, apples, green beans, and other produce. It is beneficial to include small amounts of these in daily meals. To meet daily energy requirements, the diet should include carbohydrates, protein and fiber.
All the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants the Miniature Schnauzer needs to thrive will be included in a premium complete and balanced, professionally formulated dog food.
Also Read: Borador Dog Breed.
Living conditions
Miniature Schnauzers are acceptable. They might be content with going to two hometown apartments a day. As long as their minds are occupied and they have plenty of time with you, these little dogs are more than adaptable apartment material.
That factor aside, a well-socialized Miniature Schnauzer is a very loving companion who loves to spend time with their owners. They adapt equally well to both hot and cold regions, can live happily with other monsters and get along with both small children and elderly people in their homes.
It is important to socialize Miniature Schnauzer puppies with other dogs early as the breed is somewhat fearful of dogs of other breeds. Their most basic need is to participate fully in family activities.
How to take care of Miniature Schnauzer Dog?
The Miniature Schnauzer’s coat requires frequent grooming, so it’s a good thing that it’s very easy to maintain. Grooming them on time is beneficial. Miniature Schnauzers are “hypoallergenic,” making them ideal for some homes where dander is a problem, thanks to their wiry double coat that sheds incredibly little. But they also grow their coat very quickly. Employers should prioritize ongoing training.
Grooming & Brushing
Miniature Schnauzers rarely shed. This breed requires regular maintenance, such as four to six weekly grooming trips, monthly bathing at home and daily brushing with a slicker brush. A term used to cut dead hair from a dog’s topcoat with a special knife.
You should trim a dog’s toenails at least once a month and brush their teeth two to three times per week in addition to monthly baths and daily brushing. To maintain the health of a dog’s teeth and gums, regular cleanings are essential. Start brushing the dog’s teeth as early as possible so they get used to it as they grow.
Another thing you should consider doing is a professional dental cleaning once at the vet. The Miniature Schnauzer’s ears should be cleaned every two weeks to prevent infection from ingrown hairs. Skilled grooming is also helpful for this task.
Feed Healthy food
A balanced diet is essential for leading a clean and healthy lifestyle. Meat, eggs, chicken, fish, beans and soy products are all sources of protein. Consists of 2.5 to 4.5 percent fiber and at least 50% carbohydrates.
Plant foods, legumes, and grains such as rice, oats, and barley are considered sources of carbohydrates. A dog’s diet should contain fats and fatty acids from meat, nuts and seeds. Additionally, fats keep skin and hair healthy by preventing dry, flaky skin. Omega-3 fatty acids enhance cognitive ability and eye function.
Dog food can be supplemented with fish oil or olive oil to boost dog fat. Just like people, dogs need calcium and vitamin D for healthy bones and teeth. As a treat for the Miniature Schnauzer, offer small pieces of cheese instead of store-bought dog biscuits to increase calcium intake.
The following items should never be feed to Miniature Schnauzer Dog
- Alcohol, beer, wine or liquor
- Chocolate, coffee, or tea
- Grapes or raisins
- Moldy or spoiled food of any kind
- Onions, chives, and garlic
- Poultry bones
- Salt & salty foods
- Tomato leaves stem or unripe fruit
- Yeast dough
Puppy information
Miniature Schnauzer Dog Training
As soon as you bring the puppy home, it is important to train him in proper toilet habits. Reward-based training is the most effective training strategy for miniature schnauzers. Rather than using violence or other negative punishment, this approach relies on repetition, consistency, and ongoing positive reward.
Schnauzers respond well to vigorous training sessions when they receive positive treatment. Teaching, socializing, training and teaching the dog good manners is crucial.
Behavioral training
Miniature Schnauzer puppies require behavior and training instruction. If the puppy is adequately taught and rewarded, these behaviors can be easily controlled. Here are 5 methods for teaching kids to be non-violent. Always be punctual, assertive, consistent and positive while communicating with him. You should also give it a timeout.
Obedience training
They are kind and caring, and they have a deep bond with their owner. The intelligent miniature Schnauzer breed loves to train. They are excellent in agility and tricks.
During obedience training, you can teach him various useful skills, such as commanding him to come when the phone rings, lie down, use the bathroom, sit, walk, and run.
Socialization
The dog has to be sociable. Socialization should ideally start as soon as feasible. The process of socializing entails introducing the dog to a wide range of circumstances, people, animals, sights, and odors. Thankfully, social chances may be found practically anywhere.
The best locations to start are dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, pet supply stores, and fresh walking routes. Occasionally, it’s a good idea to visit someone else’s home with friends or the dog.
Miniature Schnauzer Dog Puppies for Sale
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog breed with a very square build. They are sociable dogs that are incredibly lively. Buying a pet-quality puppy typically costs between $500 and $2,700.
Things to consider adopting a Miniature Schnauzer Dog
- Miniature Schnauzers are smart dogs and very easy to train which is why Miniature Schnauzers are ranked as the 12th most intelligent dog breed.
- They are perfect for city living due to their small size. They don’t need much space as they are 11 to 14 inches tall. But they need a lot of activity.
- They will require thorough brushing at least twice or three times a week to get rid of any dirt or debris.
- There is separation anxiety among them. They may exhibit destructive chewing, digging, or constant barking as a result of their separation anxiety. In extreme circumstances, they may also urinate or defecate inside.
- Because of their great intelligence, Miniature Schnauzers need a lot of brain stimulation to satisfy their curiosity and desire to explore.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of Miniature Schnauzer Dog
- They are very easy to train.
- They are family friendly.
- They are acceptable in apartments.
Disadvantages of Miniature Schnauzer Dog
- They are very high maintenance.
- The Schnauzer coat needs to be brushed daily.
- They are able to make a lot of noise
Miniature Schnauzer Dog Photo Gallery