Miniature Schnauzers

Appearance:

Body: Small, short, muscular, and sturdy with sloping shoulders, well-sprung ribs, short loins, and level top line.

Coat: Hard, wiry outer coat with a soft, close undercoat.

Color: Black, salt and pepper (mingling of light and gray hairs), or black and silver.

Ears: Small, v-shaped, high set, and held close to the skull. Cropped ears have pointed tips and are held erect.

Eyes: Small, dark brown, oval-shaped, and deep-set, with arched eyebrows.

Feet: Small, compact, and cat-like.

Head: Long, strong, and rectangular with a flat topskull, strong muzzle, and bushy beard.

Legs: Forelegs are straight and well-boned; elbows close to the chest. Hindquarters are muscular, thighs are sloping, and rear legs are angulated with short pasterns.

Neck: Strong and well-arched; skin is tight.

Size:
Weight: 13 - 18 pounds
Height: 12 - 14 inches

Tail: Docked, high-set, and carried upward.

Behavior

Recommended for novice dog handlers
Good with children and other dogs
A great companion and family pet
Adaptable to urban or country living

The Miniature Schnauzer is a kind, friendly, highly intelligent, playful, sometimes mischievous, but loveable, family dog. He's well-behaved, good with children, and good with other family pets. Though he may find it playful to chase the cat around the house, he's unlikely to cause him any harm.

AKC Standard says, "The typical Miniature Schnauzer is alert and spirited yet obedient to command. He is friendly, intelligent and willing to please."

He will need extra attention when a newborn baby or new pet arrives in the home. Reassure him of his importance and that he isn't being cast aside for the newcomer. Introduce him to the new arrival and include him in the activity; he will soon accept and love them as he does you.

All of the Schnauzers I've had the pleasure of knowing have been well-mannered, friendly, very accepting of me and of my dog in their homes, good with the family cats, and exceptional with children.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Terrier Group

Originally bred to hunt rats; currently used mostly as companion dogs.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate exercise with a brisk daily walk is sufficient.

Grooming: Brush four to five times weekly. Comb and clean beard after meals. Have clipped every four to six weeks.

Health

Life Expectancy: 14 Years

Possible Problems:
Allergies
Diabetes
Liver Shunt - blood bypasses the liver
Pancreatitis (digestive problems) - best not to feed them rich or fattening foods
Renal Dysplasia - an eye disorder
Skin problems - skin can become irritated from too much heat

Recommended Certificates:
CERF - for the eyes

Country of Origin

Germany - 1400s