General Description
(Zwergschnauzer, Mini Schnauzer) The Miniature Schnauzer is a hardy, robust, terrier-type dog with an alert, lively disposition. They are sturdy and robust, and their build is nearly square in proportion. Their body is well-boned, short, and deep, with the brisket extending to the level of the elbows. They have a strong, well-arched neck that blends well into the shoulders, and the skin around the throat is tightly fitting. The breed’s ribs are well-sprung and deep, and they extend well back into their short loin. Their forelegs are parallel and straight, and their pasterns are strong and well-boned. Their elbows lie close to their body and their shoulders are sloping, flat, and clean. Tails of this breed are high-set and carried erect. Their feet are short, round, and flat, and they have black pads and a set of arched, compact toes. They have strong, slanting thighs and hocks that extend beyond the tail. The head of the Miniature Schnauzer is strong and rectangular, and it tapers gradually from the ears to the eyes. Their topskull is flat and comparatively long, and their muzzle is strong and bluntly extended. Teeth of this breed close in a scissors bite and ears are well in proportion to the dog’s body. They have small, deep-set, dark brown eyes. The double coat of the Miniature Schnauzer consists of a wiry, hard outer coat and a close-fitting undercoat. Recognized coat colors for this breed are salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black.
The word "Schauzen" means to snap vocally or to give lip or talk back. In Germany, it has been traditionally recognized that a White version exists but it is not recognized for registration. In the USA, white and several levels of Salt and Pepper,from Pale Platinum to darkest almost Black and Silver, exist. In addition, the AKC now recognizes many new colors, including Chocolates and colors marked with White. An all white Schnauzer can be registered when the forms are properly filled out and a picture of the dog is sent with forms to the AKC.
Character
The Miniature Schnauzer is alert, energetic, and intelligent. They are good-natured, affectionate, and obedient, and they get along well with children. This breed will demand a substantial amount of time and companionship from its owner. They can be somewhat aggressive towards other dogs, and they enjoy putting on a show for an audience. They should be properly trained and socialized from an early age to ensure a stable temperament. They tend to bark a lot and they make good watch dogs. They can sometimes be reserved in the company of strangers.
General Health
The Miniature Schnauzer is a comparatively healthy breed. Some lines are prone to kidney stones, liver disease and ailments, diabetes, and cysts. Hereditary eye problems and skin disorders are also occasionally seen. Because of their propensity to put on weight, the Miniature Schnauzer should not be overfed. This breed typically lives for about 15 years.
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Miniature Schnauzers are prone to painful bouts of pancreatitis. Early detection and treatment will help keep the dog relatively pain free during it's life. Rapid changes in diet or fatty table foods seem to increase the onset of attacks.
History
It is believed that the Miniature Schnauzer is the product of crosses between the Standard Schnauzer, the Affenpinscher, and possibly the Poodle. They are originally a German breed, and their name comes from the German word “Schnauze”, or “muzzle”. These dogs excel at hunting rats, but today they are predominately used as a companion. They have a number of natural talents including hunting, tracking, watching, competitive obedience, and trick performing.
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The Miniature Schnauzer first came into the U.S. in 1920. Their beard acted as a shield from biting rats when they were hunting the pest.
Maintenance
The wiry coat of the Miniature Schnauzer is comparatively easy to groom and take care of. It should be combed and brushed on a daily basis with a short wire brush to prevent the onset of mats and tangles. Knots should be clipped out. Twice per year, these dogs should be clipped professionally. Excess hair should be removed around the eyes and ears with a pair of blunt-nosed scissors. The Miniature Schnauzer sheds little to no hair, and it is considered to be a good choice of pet for those that suffer from allergies.
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Clipping the coat tends to make the harsh hair softer as does neutering. Hand stripping should be considered when trying to maintain the coat's natural harshness. However many dog groomers will not hand strip dogs due to the repetitive motion that may cause strains to the wrist.
Ideal Environment
The Miniature Schnauzer is well-suited to life in a small household or apartment. They are a comparatively active breed indoors, and they are content to live without a yard. They have high energy and they enjoy going for long, brisk, daily walks. They will happily embrace any opportunity to play off of their leash.
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