Not only is the size of this dog just right for a lap, the easy-going Mini can adapt to many different situations — from a rural setting to an urban apartment. It also has a distinct advantage as one of the few dogs that does not shed. Currently, it’s the 11th most popular breed in the United States.
Square and sturdy, the Miniature Schnauzer sports a bushy beard and eyebrows like its larger cousins, the standard and giant schnauzers.
Temperament
Having a Miniature Schnauzer can almost be like having a child—but in a good way. They are alert, perky and playful, but they need guidance to learn manners and obedience. The more you give—whether playtime, constructive games or good old-fashioned attention—the better they get. They love to feel involved in family occasions and will make trouble if they feel ignored.
Highly intelligent and easy to train, Miniature Schnauzers nevertheless have a fearless streak. Often, they will go up against much larger dogs. And as they grow older they get more territorial. They will bark when they sense a threat, but Miniature Schnauzers are not prone to random or excessive noise. The ideal guard dog, their bark is much worse than their bite.
History and Origins
The earliest records surrounding development of the Miniature Schnauzer in Germany come from the late 1800s. They were originally bred to be farm dogs in Germany, to keep the rats and other vermin out of the barn. In the breed's earliest stages, several small breeds were employed in crosses to bring down the size of the well-established Standard Schnauzer, with the goal of creating a duplicate in miniature. Crossing to other breeds, such as the Affenpinscher, Poodle and Miniature Pinscher, had the side effect of introducing colors that were not considered acceptable to the ultimate goal — and as breeders worked towards the stabilization of the gene pool, mismarked particolors (mixed colors) and white puppies were removed from breeding programs.
The earliest recorded Miniature Schnauzer was in 1888, and the first exhibition was in 1899. With their bold courage, the Miniature Schnauzer was originally used for guarding herds, small farms, and families. As time passed, they were also used to hunt rats, because they appeared to have a knack for it, and its small size was perfect to get into tight places to catch them.
The AKC accepted registration of the new breed in 1926, two years after they were introduced to the United States. The American Kennel Club groups this breed with the Terriers as it was developed for a similar purpose and has a similar character to the terrier breeds of the Britain and Ireland. The Miniature Schnauzer was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1948. The United Kingdom Kennel club however, does not accept the Miniature Schnauzer as a true Terrier because it does not originate from the terrier breeds of the British Isles. Like the Tibetan Terrier and Boston Terrier it lists the Miniature Schnauzer in the Utility group for shows run under the UK Kennel Club rules such as Crufts. The FCI accepts the Schnauzer breeds but, again, does not list the Miniature Schnauzer as a Terrier.
Size & Weight
Height: 12-14 inches (30-36cm.)
Weight: 10-15 pounds (5-7kg)
Grooming Requirements
The Miniature Schnauzer has a stiff, wiry coat that sheds little to no hair, making it a good choice for people prone to allergies. However, frequent grooming and clipping is needed to keep the coat clean and free of mats and tangles. A short wire brush should be used daily and the whiskers cleaned after meals. Hair around the eyes and ears should be trimmed regularly.
Exercise Needs
Because of its high energy level, the Miniature Schnauzer should get plenty of regular exercise. Establish a daily routine, such as running or brisk walking. Or, consider enrolling this dog in agility.
Health Issues
The Schnauzer is generally healthy and hardy. Major problems include hereditary cataracts and pulmonic stenosis (incomplete opening of a heart valve due to thickening of the skin); the breed is also subject to von Willebrand's Disease and hypothyroidism, both suspected inherited autoimmune diseases.
Trivia
Robert Dole, US senator, presidential candidiate owns a mini Schnauzer.
.gif)
