Country of Origin: Schnauzers (meaning ‘small beard’ in German) are named after an actual dog, ‘Schnauzer’ who lived in Germany in the 1870’s, but the breed itself existed as far back as the Middle Ages.
Size: The Miniature Schnauzer has a shoulder height of 38 cm (15 in) or less and weighs 6-7 kg (13-15 lbs). The Miniature Schnauzer has a long, rectangular head with small, deep eyes and highly set ears which may be cropped or uncropped. Miniature Schnauzers have a flat back, highly set, erect tail, and small, round ‘cat feet’.
Coat: The Miniature Schnauzer has a soft, thick undercoat and a rugged, wiry outer coat which is solid black or salt-and-pepper colored. The coat is longer on the chin and face, forming eyebrows and a beard. The Miniature Schnauzer sheds little.
Character: The Miniature Schnauzer is even-tempered and an eager, intelligent learner. It is brave and fun, making and an excellent companion. Miniature Schnauzers are loyal, protective, and alert, but do not make good guard dogs due to their size.
Temperament: The Miniature Schnauzer gets along great with familiar children, dogs, and other pets, but it is wary and cautious with people and animals it does not know. Miniature Schnauzers are best behaved when given sufficient exercise and human companionship. Miniature Schnauzers are spunky, and not as overbearing as Standard or Giant Schnauzers. They also get along with other dogs more easily.
Care: The Miniature Schnauzer requires weekly combing and biannual grooming/shaping. Typically, pet Schnauzers are clipped and show dogs are stripped (dead hair is plucked via a serrated knife edge). Excessive hair around the pads of the feet should be removed and the ears must be kept clean. Miniature Schnauzers with cropped ears should be checked for ear infections. Long facial hair should be combed occasionally. Miniature Schnauzers can live outdoors in moderate or warm areas, but prefer to live indoors with plenty of playtime outdoors. Miniature Schnauzers are prone to diabetes and pancreatitis. They should not be fed sweet foods, and should not be overfed to avoid obesity. Miniature Schnauzers have a long life span of 13-15 years or more.
Training: Though the Miniature Schnauzer learns fast, it has a slight stubborn streak. Training must be fair and consistent and should not be overly repetitious. Miniature Schnauzers are responsive to the sound of their handler's voice. They are versatile, and can learn a variety of activities such as hunting, retrieving, and herding.
Activity: The Miniature Schnauzer has energy far exceeding its size and enjoys going for runs or playing games in the yard. It is well suited for apartment life.
