About The Miniature Schnauzer

All About The Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is an incredibly popular breed of dog, and with good reason. Highly loyal and very affectionate, the breed is currently amongst the American Kennel Club's top ten breeds list.

 

General Appearance and Description

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small but stocky breed that is immediately identifiable by its wiry coat and distinctive beard.

It also has big bushy eyebrows that make it look a little old, regardless of age.

The common colors for the Miniature Schnauzer are black, black and silver or salt and pepper gray.

The coat may be wiry but it does not shed that much and so it is one of the better breeds for those suffering with dog allergies.

Basic Temperament

The Miniature Schnauzer is very friendly and incredibly sociable. The breed will generally take to anyone that shows a lot of love and affection and so can be great around children that the individual dog has been raised with. Incredibly mild mannered and sweet, they tend to get on with other pets too providing that they feel secure and confident in their homes.

However, Miniature Schnauzers can also be very stubborn at times. The only slight problem with the breed's temperament is that they can be a little unpredictable around strangers if not socialized properly. Providing that the individual dog is socialized at an early age this should not be an issue at all.

Care Required

The Miniature Schnauzer is one of the most difficult breeds to groom because of the nature of its wiry coat. Most owners have to hire a professional groomer to make sure that the coat remains in good condition but there are daily grooming practices that should be applied. For example, the beard has to be wiped with a damp cloth and combed every day to keep it clean and bacteria free.

It is also necessary to brush the coat once every other day and keep the hair around the bottom trimmed to prevent feces building up there. Be sure to trim the bear and fringe hair around the face once a month or so to keep it tidy. Blunt nosed scissors should be used for this.

Exercise Requirements

An energetic and lively breed, the Miniature Schnauzer requires plenty of exercise. Many experts recommend twice daily walks to keep their energy levels in check but the truth is that any activity that involves you will suffice.

These dogs love variety and so playing ball with them, walking and performing over obstacle courses all serve the same purpose.

Training

Miniature Schnauzers are very intelligent and are known to be one of the most obedient breeds around. In fact, they often fare well in obedience training as well as regular household training. As the breed just wants to please its owners, this can ensure that training is as smooth and as easy as possible.

Miniature Schnauzer dogs do bark a lot but they are excellent watch dogs so you should never try to prevent barking during training. Instead, gentle censures often work when barking becomes inappropriate.

Height and Weight

The average height attributed to this breed is between 12 and 14 inches in height with the average weight being between 13 and 19lbs.

Health and Longevity

Miniature Schnauzers have an average life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years but there are some health problems associated with the breed. For example, the breed may suffer with liver problems, thyroid problems, epilepsy, allergies, skin conditions, cataracts and inflammation of the pancreas.

These conditions can be managed if spotted early enough so make sure that you are aware of the symptoms.

Suitability

Miniature Schnauzers make absolutely fantastic pets and their popularity rating reflects that. They need a family or owner that has plenty of time for them and is willing to lavish significant love and affection on them to be completely happy.

Caution should be taken when introducing them to children but with the right master, they can and will be a welcome addition to any family home.

The information here will help anyone looking to adopt a Miniature Schnauzer but, for more comprehensive details, we highly recommend the Miniature Schnauzer eBook And Audio Package.

For more detailed and complete information, we suggest The Miniature Schnauzer Insider's Guide ebook and audio package.