A robust little Terrier dog that is intelligent and a loyal companion to the whole family, the Miniature Schnauzer has a sense of spirit like no other breed. If you are looking to bring home a small but mighty dog, read on to learn everything you need to know this pet!
Breed Snapshot
Size Small Dog (5- 9 kg); 30 – 35cm in height
Coat Low shedding dog with a thick top coat and soft underbelly, this dog should visit a groomer
Energy High energy dog that should be walked daily as well as partake in regular exercise
Lifespan 12 – 15 years
Country of origin Germany
Breed type A small dog that is a member of the Schnauzer family. This dog is funky and has a lot of energy, a real family dog
Other names “Dwarf Schnauzer” is the German name
Great breed for:
- Apartment Living or Home with yard
- Families with kids
An Introduction to the Mighty Little Miniature Schnauzer
A fun-loving dog that is ideal for active families who would like a furry little friend to play with, the Miniature Schnauzer is a high-spirited dog that enjoys to play a game of catch or take to the trails on a weekend hike.
Miniature Schnausers are a member of the Terrier family and originated in Germany as far back as the 1500s when they were used to chase away rats and other pests from the farms. These amazing little dogs stole the hearts of English nobility, which paved the way for them to be the perfectly manicured show dogs that they are today.
This breed is intelligent and develops a strong bond with its human family. If you are interested in a dog that craves attention and has an affectionate side, look no further than the Miniature Schnauzer. Whilst these dogs love to roam free and explore their environment, they also make great pets for city dwellers living in a flat or apartment.
What Do Miniature Schnauzers Look Like?
Miniature Schnauzers look a lot like Scottish Terriers, except a little less aristocratic and precisely groomed. Miniature Schnauzers have a gruffer appearance but are just as adorable. This dog stands at 30 – 35 cm in height and weighs in at 5 – 9kg. These dogs have a beautiful coat of fur that can be carefully groomed to hang from his or her body perfectly. Miniature Schnauzers are recognized for their iconic beard and mustache.
Miniature Schnauzers are working dogs that have small but muscular bodies. Their legs are short, keeping them low to the ground so they can sniff out small pests lurking around your property. Their colouring ranges from black and white to black and silver, and they could have some brown highlights. This dog has small floppy ears that perk up when he or she is alerted or is excited to see you.
How Do I Groom My Miniature Schnauzer?
Miniature Schnauzer puppies have a soft coat that eventually turns wiry on top when they grow into adulthood. If you want your dog to sport long hair, you should take him or her to a professional groomer at least once a month to make sure that his or her fur is cut correctly. This is a show dog that can be dressed up to look its best. Some people prefer to keep their dog’s fur coat short so that it requires less home care. Dogs with long fur coats need to be brushed regularly and stripped by a professional groomer. You should bathe your dog regularly to keep its coat clean and healthy.
Trim your dog’s nails at least once a month so that they do not get too long and snag on furniture and carpets. You should provide your dog with chew toys and brush his or her teeth regularly to maintain good oral healthy.
How Do I Train My Miniature Schnauzer?
Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent dogs that are super easy to train as long as you use positive reinforcement training techniques. This breed loves to please its owners and will have an enjoyable time learning new tricks as long as training sessions are short, sweet, and to the point.
If you have never trained a dog before, you may wish to sign your Miniature Schnauzer puppy up for obedience classes with a professional trainer. PetCloud can help you find a reputable dog trainer close to home. Training should commence when your dog is a puppy, so they get used to obeying commands. If you choose to train your Miniature Schnauzer on your own, get the kids involved to make it an entertaining family activity.
How Can I get a Miniature Schnauzer?
It is important that you only purchase a Miniature Schnauzer through a reputable breeder to ensure you get a healthy pet that was treated well during its early puppyhood. Dogs need to be able to trust those who take care of them to form strong bonds with people. Visit RSCPA’s website where you can find a responsible breeder in your area.
Miniature Schnauzer FAQs
What is the lifespan of a Miniature Schnauzer?
Miniature Schnauzers can live between 12 – 15 years as long as they are exercised regularly and are fed a good diet of nutritious dog food.
Is this breed good with other pets?
This breed is territorial by nature, so your dog will need socialization training if you plan to have other pets in your home.
Can a Miniature Schnauzer be left alone whilst I am at work?
Yes, this breed can be independent when it needs to be and is perfectly alright staying home alone whilst you are at work provided that they have plenty of toys to play with whilst you are gone. Bored dogs get themselves into trouble. Otherwise many Pet Owners, recommend Doggy Day Care as the perfect solution for company enrichment, and socialisation during the day.
Are Miniature Schnauzer’s hypoallergenic?
Yes! This is a low shedding breed that does not make pet allergies flare up.
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