Miniature Schnauzer

Read our comprehensive guide to the Miniature Schnauzer breed, including information on predisposed health issues, exercise needs, family friendliness, grooming, history, overview & temperament.

Dog

17 Oct 2023

History of Miniature Schnauzer Dogs

The smallest of the Schnauzer breed, Miniature Schnauzers originated in Germany in the 1800s and were created as ratting dogs that mostly lived on farms. The first Miniature Schnauzer went on record in 1888 and boomed in popularity ever since due to its trademark snout and scrappy appearance. The smaller Schnauzer was created so it could fit into small burrows with ease. Today, this breed is one of the most popular ones on the planet.

What to expect when caring for your Miniature Schnauzer

Common Miniature Schnauzer Health Issues: What common health issues might you encounter as a Miniature Schnauzer owner?

Bladder Stones – This breed is susceptible to urinary tract disorders that result in bladder stones.

Cushing’s Disease - This disease is a sign of adrenal gland malfunction and symptoms include increased thirst and increased appetite.

Sick Sinus Syndrome – This is a cardiac related issue that commonly affects this breed and causes the heart to stop beating. Heart failure is unfortunately something Miniature Schnauzers are particularly prone to.

How Much Grooming Do Miniature Schnauzer Dogs Need?: This breed is a high maintenance one when it comes to grooming as its bushy beard and eyebrows require regular upkeep. Miniature Schnauzers have a double coat that doesn’t shed a lot but the outer coat does require daily brushing. The coat needs to be clipped every six weeks and if you aren’t prepared to do it yourself at home, you can appoint a professional groomer to do it for you.

How Much Exercise Do Miniature Schnauzer Dogs Need?: Adventurous and lively, a Miniature Schnauzer loves the outdoors but has a high prey drive so you should keep them on the lead in public places. This breed is active with high energy levels so as an owner you will need to be prepared to create an exercise regimen that is both mentally and physically stimulating. A backyard obstacle course, as well as frisbee toss and tug of war, will keep this pooch happy. You don’t need a huge amount of indoor space to house this breed as long as you take the time to provide the exercise they need.

Miniature Schnauzer Personality Traits

What to expect from your Miniature Schnauzer

Dog owners are helplessly drawn to the Miniature Schnauzer breed because of their insatiable zest for life. This tiny dog is bursting with character. One of the traits that make this working breed stand out is obedience and intelligence and they have a keen sense of hearing compared with other breeds. For this reason, they are quick to alert their owners of a stranger’s presence in or around their home and make superb watchdogs. However, due to their small size, they don’t make great guard dogs. They are vocal dogs but with proper training, you can teach your pet to only bark when necessary.
Are Miniature Schnauzer Dogs Family Friendly?

How will they behave around my family?

Miniature Schnauzers are fiercely loyal and are gentle and friendly towards children making them excellent family pets. However, if you are a busy family that is out of the house for several hours, this is not the breed for you. A pack animal by nature, this breed doesn’t like to be left alone for long periods of time without a family member nearby. This is a breed that likes to be in the thick of it at all times.

Key Facts Summary
Size:
12-14 inches
Weight:
5kg-9kg
Temperament:
Intelligent and Energetic
Lifespan
12-15 Years
Average Cost:
£382-£765