Let's talk Miniature Schnauzers
All the fun, energy – and exuberant facial hair – of a Standard Schnauzer, in a small but energetic package. The Miniature Schnauzer’s shaggy beard and whiskers, over-the-top eyebrows and floppily folded over ears are among their defining features, alongside sociability, adaptability and intelligence. Miniature Schnauzers’ small size means they can be contented city dogs as long as they get regular exercise. This family-friendly breed can live pretty much anywhere – as long as you’re there.Official name: Miniature Schnauzer
Other names: Originally known as Miniature Wire-Haired Pinscher
Origins: Germany
| Drooling tendencies |
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Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level |  |
Suited to apartment living? |  |
| Energy Level (high, low, medium)* | Medium | Family Pet?* |
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| Compatibility with other pets | |
Can stay alone?* | |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socializing your pet as well as covering their basic welfare needs (and their social and behavioral needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
Contact your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
| Baby age | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age | 2 to 10 months |
| Adult age | 10 months to 8 years |
| Mature age | 8 to 12 years |
| Senior age | From 12 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Miniature Schnauzers
1. Prey Instinct
Miniature Schnauzers were originally bred as farm dogs to catch rats and other vermin. If smaller animals are around, it’s a good idea (particularly for the smaller animals) to keep them on the lead!
2. Popularity Contest
Shhh... don’t tell the others, but Miniature Schnauzers are the most popular member of the Schnauzer family. Perhaps it’s their more colourful coats or their more manageable size, but the Miniature Schnauzer is the runaway favourite of the three breeds according to The American Kennel Club’s latest ranking.
History of the breed
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Miniature Schnauzers
1. ears
High-set, V-shaped, forward-folding ears.
2. Face
Bushy beard and eyebrows around dark eyes
3. Coat
White, black, black and silver or salt and pepper coats.
4. Fur
Double-layered fur: wiry topcoat and soft undercoat.
5. Tail
Perky, sabre-shaped tail, often to be found wagging
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Miniature Schnauzer
Staying Fit As A Fiddle
Even if they are known to be generally robust dogs, there are a few health issues Miniature Schnauzers can be prone to, such as certain eye diseases, including – extremely rarely – congenital cataracts, which can develop later in life. Regular check-ups with the vet will ensure that your Miniature Schnauzer stays on top form and any health concerns are spotted and can be treated quickly.
On The Scales
Miniature Schnauzers can have a tendency towards being overweight, particularly if they are neutered. Their weight needs to be monitored regularly, as with any small dog. Following the recommended daily kibble amounts for the breed will help ensure that they maintain that lively and energetic temperament. While they can live contentedly in an apartment, Miniature Schnauzers do need plenty of exercise, and a good mix of walking, running and playing – for mental stimulation as well as burning off physical energy.
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Caring for your Miniature Schnauzer
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Brushing every few days, and a trip to a professional groomer every 5-8 weeks for a trim will keep Miniature Schnauzers’ thick double coats – a wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat – looking their best. While the dogs themselves may not agree, a monthly bath is a good idea, as is regular nail trimming. Miniature Schnauzers need a fair amount of exercise and enjoy variety: regular lead walks, runs in an enclosed space or lively games for mental stimulation. Miniature Schnauzers are easy to train. It just needs to be fun and interesting to stop them getting bored. Puppy training classes are also great for socialisation.
All about Miniature Schnauzers
Miniature Schnauzers are a lively and active breed and sometimes they just can’t help sharing their excitement with a bark or two. While for a guard dog that can be an asset, if your Miniature Schnauzer is a bit more vocal than you would like, early training can help.
Don’t be fooled by the hipster beard: Miniature Schnauzers might look hairy but they actually shed very little.
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/