Miniature Schnauzer - Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer Temperament

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small and very popular dog breed, enjoying an impressive top ten position on the AKC popularity list. Loyal, devoted, and affectionate, the Miniature Schnauzer is an excellent choice of a companion dog or family pet, and is suited to both inexperienced and experienced dog owners. The Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly and sociable dog with a pleasant disposition. Although this breed can bark a lot, they will raise the alarm if something is amiss, and this makes them effective watchdogs. Intelligent and quick to learn, the Miniature Schnauzer is easy to train and is very good at obedience training. These versatile dogs are usually eager to please their owner, but can be a little stubborn and headstrong at times.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a dog that likes to give and receive love and affection, and is not suited to individuals or families with little time to devote to a pet. He has plenty of energy, and enjoys exercise and joining in with family activities. These mild mannered dogs will get along with children when brought up with them, and also tend to get along with other pets. The Miniature Schnauzer's attitude to strangers can vary depending on his personality - some may be very welcoming and others may be aloof or timid. As with many other dog breeds, early socialization will help to develop a stable and confident attitude.
Miniature Schnauzer Appearance

The Miniature Schnauzer has a distinctive appearance, with a sturdy and square build. He has a bushy beard, and a harsh, wiry coat. The coloring of the coat can be salt and pepper, black with silver, or solid black. The bushy eyebrows lend the Miniature Schnauzer a rather grouchy expression at times. The weight of the Miniature Schnauzer is around 13-19 pounds, and the height is around 12-14 inches.
Miniature Schnauzer Grooming

When it comes to grooming you will need to put some work in to keep the Miniature Schnauzer's coat in good condition. You should clean his beard on a daily basis for hygiene reasons and ensure that the hair around his bottom is kept trimmed. Brush the coat several times a week. For show dogs, the dead coat will need to be stripped every three months or so, or standard clipping can be used for pet dogs. This breed is a low shedder when groomed properly, and is therefore well suited to allergy sufferers.
Miniature Schnauzer Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Miniature Schnauzer is around 12-14 years. The breed has a number of health problems and disorders linked to it, and this includes: vWD, liver problems, cataracts, thyroid problems, inflammation of the pancreas, epilepsy, allergies, and skin problems. The parents of the Miniature Schnauzer puppy should have CERF certificates.
Miniature Schnauzer History

Originating from Germany, the Miniature Schnauzer was developed to hunt vermin, act as guard dogs, and even herd. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1926, and has gone on to become hugely popular as a companion and household pet.

# AKAZwergschnauzer
# SizeSmall
# Ease of trainingHigh
# GroomingHigh
# SheddingLow
# Exercise neededDaily running and walking
# Energy levelMedium/High
# ProtectionHigh, makes an effective watchdog
# Good with childrenYes when raise with them
# Health clearancesCERF, vWD
# Popularity10/155