The Loyal Miniature Schnauzer
‘Zwergscnauzer’

Dog breed info
Miniature Schnauzer
‘Zwergscnauzer’
Weight: 12 — 16 lbs
Height: 12” — 14”
AKC Rank 2008 #11
Lifespan: 12—15 yrs
Group Terrier
Origin Germany

Dog Breed Info – The Miniature Schnauzer

I’m a Miniature Schnauzer named “Amy”
from a Dog Breed Rescue Group

Breed Overview

The Minieture Schnauzer is one of the most affectionate, energetic and eager to please family dogs in the lineup of dog breeds.

This is a true family dog that appreciates lots of “hands-on” treatment in the way of tummy rubs, back, chest, head, behind-the-ears and in-front-of-the-tail rubs, plus chin-rubs. They love to be touched and cuddled.

The unusual beard and extra long eyebrows and dark markings on the face make them easy to recognize. The pointed ears come from cropping, something mostly done in America

Schnauzer’s come in Miniature, Standard and Giant sizes, each a separate breed. The original job of the Schnauzer was to catch rats and other small vermin and to protect fruit carts, as well as function as companion dogs for their masters.

The Miniature Schnauzer was developed in the late 1800’s as a small farm dog. It was derived by crossing the Standard Schnauzer with the Affenpinscher and possibly the Poodle. All the Schnauzers get their name from the one dog “Schnauzer” who was exhibited around 1879 , an apt name, since “Schnauzer” means “small beard.” The Miniature Schnauzer was exhibited as a breed separate from the Standard Schnauzer by 1899 in Germany, although it wasn’t until 1933 that the AKC divided the Standard and Miniature into breeds. The Miniature is the only Schnauzer is the only Schnauzer to remain in the terrier group in America. The Miniature Schnauzer came to America long after the Standard and Giant counterparts , but in the years after WWII, they far outpaced them in popularity, ultimately rising to become the 3rd most popularly breed in America at one time.

Schnauzers are a little tricky to train. They are VERY intelligent! But… they learn on their own schedule. Don’t be discouraged. They ARE trainable, especially if you use clicker training which works for any dog, any size. Pick up a little clicker at the pet store. It’s so simple to use and the dogs love the method.

Crate Training

Want to crate train your Miniature Schnauzer? It’s easy and if you’re interested, take a look and you’ll see what to do. Crate training your puppy will save many headaches and problems.

Potty Training

Miniature Schnauzers and puppies are fairly easy to house train, potty train, toilet train, housebreak or whatever you want to call it. If you have a puppy, decide if you want to crate or paper potty train it. For the best results, we have a page at Crate vs Paper Potty Training which will help you decide and from there you can get all the information you need to get the job done. Always praise the pup profusely when she goes potty in the RIGHT PLACE so she knows she has done a good thing. Either method will work for this breed.

If you have an older dog, take the dog outside every two hours until she gets the idea which door leads to her potty area. Older dogs catch on to the potty or housebreaking pretty fast once they are shown what to do.

Miniature Schnauzers are playful, inquisitive, alert, and companionable dogs. They are a well-mannered house dog that also enjoy being in the middle of all family activities. This breed is less domineering than the larger Schnauzers and less dog-aggressive than most terriers. It’s also better with other animals than most terriers, although, it will gladly give chase to a squirrel or rabbit. They can be stubborn. Some bark a lot. I know. I’ve owned several.

If you happen to get a Miniature Schnauzer with a separation anxiety problem, that can be dealt with by investing a few hours of work on your part and some “tough love.”

Two Mini Schnauzers to keep each other company.

Friendly Toward Other Dogs

Somewhat. The Mini Schnauzer can be a little reserved but generally warms up to most dogs, at least in their size range. Bigger dogs tend to frighten them a little.

Friendly Toward Other Pets

No. Not good with cats, but other dogs, OK.

Friendly Toward Strangers

Yes, bring on your friends and neighbors. Schnauzers LOVE people as long as you sanction them. Keep in mind, Schnauzers are highly protective of their family and might be reluctant to admit strangers through your door if not properly introduced. A Schnauzer is a family watchdog first…. and you have to let him know your guest is not someone to be wary of.

Playfulness

Very playful little dog. Keep plenty of toys and chew things on hand, because Schnauzers are active and inventive and must channel their energy.

Very affectionate! One of the most cuddly, affectionate lap dogs I have ever owned. Get a female. She’ll love you to death!

A Miniature Schnauzer will put up with children to a substantial degree. Keep the toddlers away, and the very noisy kids. Six years and up, fine. Under five years can put your Schnauzer to the test. They tolerate, but it’s not fair to the dog to give him too much poking and pulling.

Good with Seniors over 65?

Yes! A Miniature Schnauzer is a perfect dog for a senior. Not too heavy, can run around the house for exercise and get someone to give walks. The Schnauzer is so affectionate and loving it would warm any seniors heart, and a great watchdog too!

Living environment

Apartment, farm, city, anywhere is OK. The Schnauzer is an indoor dog, needing to share its life with PEOPLE. This breed does not do well alone and should not be left in a yard too long.

Schnauzers tend to get cold in snow and cold winters’ so need a heavy coat with hood and a raincoat.

Back yards are nice but not necessary for the Mini Schnauzer. They get their fun on walks, jogging with you and from chasing balls.

Energy level

Moderate. Not hyper or excessive energy. Just what you’d want.

Two walks around the block a day will do it, or, several good games of “fetch” will suffice. Miniature Schnauzers, especially males, MUST burn off the energy they do have.

They are very intelligent dogs and get bored easily so keep them interested in something.

Excellent watchdog! If someone throws a newspaper on the doorstep, they’ll bark like crazy!

No. All bark, no kill intruder.

No. I’ve brushed my current Schnauzer for 11 years and there is not a single hair in the brush.

See groomer every 6 to 8 weeks.
Wash, dry and brush beard beside and under jaw after each meal.Brush head to tail 3 times a week.

Book at the left is an Owners Guide to the Mini Schnauzer.

Here’s more Mini Schnauzer info!

Everything Miniature Schnauzer – Schnauzers Rule is a complete owner’s guide for the Miniature Schnauzer lover and dog enthusiasts. Topics include dog grooming, obedience and trick training, housebreaking, Schnauzer contests, FREE dog eCards, and more! Schnauzers Rule – Got Schnauzer?

Miniature Schnauzer Breeders

In the event you decide to go looking for Miniature Schnauzer puppies, be SURE to find reputable breeders that really know what they are doing. Be sure the puppy has been well socialized and started in obedience training.
Miniature Schnauzer Breeders with puppies for sale.

Miniature Schnauzer Rescue

In the event you are seriously considering the adoption of a Mini Schnauzer and are looking for a Miniature Schnauzer rescue group or groups in your state, here are several links that might help:
Petfinder – Dog Rescue – (Nationwide) When you adopt, check for dog health records. Question serious past problems if possible.
Adopt A Pet This is an interesting site that may give you some ideas. If necessary, go online and look for Mini Schnauzer Rescue groups and don’t forget your local dog pound and rescue kennels.

This is basically a healthy breed. Don’t let the list below scare you! Your own dog will probably never have ANY of these problems. These are dog illness and medical issues this breed is prone to that have been listed by various veterinarians at different times over the past decade or so and some pertain to puppies and very young dogs that a breeder would deal with.

The information contained herein has been gathered from numerous books by veterinarians and is intended as general information only. Every dog and situation is different. You must see your vet. Our information is for general interest only and not intended to replace the advice provided by your own veterinarian.

Urolithiasis—A urinary tract disease caused by the formation of excessive amounts of crystals into “stones” or sometimes called urinary calculi, kidney stones or bladder stones in the Miniature Schnauzer. These stones can land anywhere in the unitary tract, including the bladder, and block it, making it either difficult to urinate or impossible to do so. At the least, they will irritate the tract lining and may allow blood and certainly pain… into the tract. This is serious and a vet must be seen immediately if you suspect the tract is blocked. Signs to look for: Frequent urination, often in unusual places, blood in urine, dribbling urine, straining, weakness, depression, no appetite, vomiting and pain.