Miniature Schnauzer
Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson
The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the three sizes of this breed. They're affectionate to their owners, but wary of strangers unless socialized.
Average size and lifespan
Weight: 11-20lbs
Lifespan: 12 - 14 Years
Behavior
- Affection
- Kid-Friendly
- Stranger-Friendly
- Dog-Friendly
- Barking Amount
Care
- Grooming Difficulty
- Shedding Amount
- Easy to Train
- Can Be Alone
- Exercise Need
Environment
- Cold Tolerance
- Heat Tolerance
- Apartment-Friendly
Miniature Schnauzer Information
In the top 20 of popular dog breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly, smart and loyal dog. Minis were bred from their larger cousins, the Standard Schnauzer. Muscular and strong, this breed is rugged and scrappy with distinctive bushy eyebrows and a beard. His fur comes in salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black.
With an adaptable attitude and obedient demeanor, the Miniature Schnauzer makes an ideal family pet. He gets along well with children and other pets and loves to be close to his human companions!
This breed also has two other size variations: the Standard Schnauzer & the Giant Schnauzer.
Miniature Schnauzer History
The Miniature Schnauzer has its roots in the Standard Schnauzer breed which comes from late 19th century Germany. The breed originated as a herding and guarding dog that worked on German farms.
Eventually, the miniature version was bred for ratting. It’s either from breeding the smallest Standard Schnauzers together or with some combination with other smaller breeds like the Pomeranian, Miniature Pinscher, Miniature Poodle or Affenpinscher.
Miniature Schnauzer Training & Temperament
Miniature Schnauzers are an intelligent breed that is friendly and happy to please their owner. This makes for a very trainable breed, but they need some unique aspects to their training regimen to keep them from getting bored. They also do well with various canine sports. They are a playful breed that is alert & barks at strangers, but will generally relax around them afterward if they have been socialized.
Miniature Schnauzer Exercise
Miniature Schnauzers have a medium energy level and require some form of daily exercise to keep healthy. They do well with a fenced yard and playtime or walking. They do have a drive to chase small animals so it’s best to be careful if they are off-leash.
Miniature Schnauzer Grooming
The Miniature Schnauzer doesn’t shed much but does require some grooming to look good. This typically means having its coat trimmed by a professional groomer and frequently brushing its coat. It requires bathing about once a month. Be sure to check the ears for build up and clean them and trim nails as needed. As with all breeds their teeth should be brushed.
Miniature Schnauzer Health
The Miniature Schnauzer is a healthy breed. They can have issues with high fat diets and it’s best to not feed them too many high-fat foods or treats.
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miniature_Schnauzer, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/miniature-schnauzer/
All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!
Breed FAQs
Can Miniature Schnauzers be apartment dogs?
Miniature Schnauzers aren't ideal for apartments, but might be able to live there successfully if there are enough opportunities to find larger spaces nearby to play.
Can Miniature Schnauzers be left alone?
Miniature Schnauzers are a very independent breed. They will typically do well when on their own for longer periods. Just be sure to avoid being neglectful.
Are Miniature Schnauzers good with kids?
Miniature Schnauzers can be difficult to handle with the rowdy behavior of a child. They should be watched very closely.
Are Miniature Schnauzers friendly with strangers?
Miniature Schnauzers tend to be uncomfortable with strangers. They will require extra training effort to socialize them with those outside their family.
Do Miniature Schnauzers get along with other dogs?
Miniature Schnauzers aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend to not get along unless carefully socialized.
Do Miniature Schnauzers bark a lot?
Miniature Schnauzers are known to bark quite often. This can be irritating for owners who aren't expecting it and they may require some training to limit the amount of barking.
Do Miniature Schnauzers shed a lot?
The Miniature Schnauzer rarely, or never, sheds. They're excellent for someone who doesn't want to clean up much dog hair.
Do Miniature Schnauzers need a lot of grooming?
Expect Miniature Schnauzers to require regular grooming. Their coats will need brushing and continued maintenance.
Do Miniature Schnauzers need a lot of exercise?
The Miniature Schnauzer has a good amount of energy and will need to be exercised with some walks and play to keep them happy.
Are Miniature Schnauzers easy to train?
Typically, Miniature Schnauzers are easy to train. They enjoy the bonding process with their owner and are quick to learn.
Can Miniature Schnauzers handle cold weather?
Miniature Schnauzers do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they'll do well in colder climates.
Can Miniature Schnauzers handle hot weather?
Miniature Schnauzers do well in hot climates and can stay out longer without overheating.
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