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Miniature Schnauzer Facts Life Expectancy: 13 years Size: 13-14in Noise: Talkative Common Health Problems: Eye problems Breed Recognized By: AKC, CKC, FCI, KC Alternate Names: Zwergschnauzer Friendliness | Friendly to family members including children, doesn’t tolerate small animals well, wary of strangers | Grooming | Moderate | Energy | Moderate to high, requires 40-60 minutes per day | Trainability | Trainable by someone it trusts | Miniature Schnauzers are the most popular of the three sizes of Schnauzer. Schnauzers were first bred in Germany as general farm dogs that could perform functions ranging from herding to killing vermin. The Miniature Schnauzer is probably related to the Affenpinscher and the larger Schnauzers. Today, the Miniature Schnauzer is prized as a family companion that is both loyal and affectionate. Allergy sufferers will appreciate that Miniature Schnauzers shed very little. Early in the breed’s history, one of the Miniature Schnauzers main duties on the farm was as a watch dog. The Miniature Schnauzers loud, persistent bark let the farmer know when intruders were about, human or animal. The Miniature Schnauzer has retained its guarding instinct and will protect its home and family from strangers, and it often takes Miniature Schnauzers several encounters with someone before they become friendly. Miniature Schnauzers have also kept their vermin hunting instincts, and should not be trusted around small animals unless raised with them from puppyhood. Miniature Schnauzers hardly shed at all, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers or those who like to keep things neat. However, a Miniature Schnauzer’s coat does need regular clipping and grooming as well as an occasional stripping to remove dead hair. Consult a professional groomer before attempting to strip a Miniature Schnauzer at home. For a smaller breed, the Miniature Schnauzer is a high energy dog and requires plenty of exercise. Miniature Schnauzers love to be outdoors and do best when allowed to run off lead in a safe area. Because Miniature Schnauzers are prone to becoming territorial, it’s a good idea to take them on daily walks around the neighborhood to offer opportunities for socialization. Miniature Schnauzers love to please their family members and are easy to train once a strong bond has been formed with the dog. While not as adept at tricks as a poodle, a Miniature Schnauzer can easily be taught a variety of commands beyond the basics of sit, stay, and come.
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