Dog Training and Dog Care advice from UK Professionals

Miniature Schnauzer Dog Breed Profile

The name 'Schnauzer' is derived from the German word ‘Schnauze' meaning muzzle.

Other Names: Zwergschnauzer, Mini Schnauzer

K9Obedience Breed Profile

Origin: Germany

Breed Purpose: Killing rats and other vermin. Watchdog.

Kennel Club Dog Group: Terrier

Height: Bitch 30-33cm., Dog 33-35.6cm.

Weight: Both 5-7kg.

Lifespan: 15-17 years

Exercise Needs: The Miniature Schnauzer is a very energetic dog that does need a daily walk but gets most of its exercise from playing indoors and occupying itself as a watchdog.

Feeding Needs: This dog is a small eater that thrives on a natural, home prepared diet. The Mini Schnauzer can suffer with Bladder stones and Pancreatitis and must never be fed sweet foods such as cakes or biscuits.

Common Ailments: Generally, this dog is very healthy but some breed lines are prone to eye problems, diabetes, bladder stones and Pancreatitis. Only buy puppies from breeders that have had their stock eye tested.

Physical Description: The most distinctive feature of this dog is its bushy beard, moustache, and thick, bushy eyebrows. The body is short and square shaped and the tail is traditionally docked. This dog has a hard, wiry coat with a dense undercoat. The colours come in black, black and silver and salt and pepper.

Miniature Schnauzer K9 Obedience Dog Breed Summary:

This sturdy little dog is quite a character with its comical bushy beard. They are reasonably easy to care for but do benefit from expert grooming to keep that show look.

They do not shed hair so are suitable pets for anyone with an allergy. They are obedient, playful and respond well to training. They do demand attention from their owners and hate to be left alone for long periods.

Their vocal bark will warn of intruders but will also annoy the neighbours so the dog must be trained to stop barking on command.

They generally do well with older children but only barely tolerate younger ones. They do not get on with other pets in general, especially other dogs unless actively taught to do so. They need to be trained to be sociable from an early age or this dog will constantly be fighting with other dogs, even big ones!

They are very adaptable and will happily live in an apartment, town, or country mansion.

The Miniature Schnauzer makes an ideal family pet and a wonderful, happy companion. Well suited to a family, a single person or the active retired person.