Description of the breed
Developed from small Standard Schnauzers and Affenpinschers, the Miniature Schnauzer was primarily shown as a distinctive breed in the year 1899. This breed resembles the Standard Schnauzer, but weighs between 10 and 15 pounds and is between 12 and 14 inches tall. high.
Coat
The Double Coat Miniature Schnauzer has a soft, thick undercoat, with a tough, wiry top coat. Their coats are usually longer on the face and chin, creating a beard and eyebrows. Commonly seen coat colors are solid black, silver and black, and salt and pepper.
Activity
While very active indoors, this breed loves being in the garden, but will live without it as long as it is given the opportunity for short walks during the day. This breed may be appropriate in apartment housing, but would require occasional walks on a leash to meet exercise needs.
Temperament
The playful, alert and energetic Miniature Schnauzer loves being with family and is great with children. But as with other breeds, they must be supervised at all times when around young children. This breed is generally courageous, loyal, and protective, with a willingness to protect and will even risk their life for property and family.
Overview
The Miniature Schnauzer makes a great pet for every home. If these dogs are bred properly, a happy, fulfilling and lifelong company will flourish.
Watch out
The Miniature Schnauzer should be groomed weekly and styled twice a year. They are usually trimmed while show dogs are stripping. Hair should be removed around the pads of the feet and hair should always be kept clean. Some with cropped ears need to be checked regularly for ear infections. Your facial hair should be combed from time to time. This breed will prefer to live indoors with plenty of outdoor play time.
Training
The adult Miniature Schnauzer may be dominant, but will respond well to a training regimen based on leadership and praise. Treats are highly recommended in the training of older dogs who are used to getting away with it, but it is not as necessary in puppies. Training sessions should be short, not to exceed 10 minutes, and should always end with lots of praise, play, and petting. Training your puppy in this way will give him the idea that obedience results in great rewards.
Socializing with the Miniature Schnauzer is easier as this breed loves to please. Showing that trainers are competent leaders will allow them to be subordinate, which will make these puppies less aggressive. Leaderless dogs of this breed will only make them aggressive, destructive, and disobedient. It is crucial that this breed has its trainers as the leader of the pack to avoid the most unwanted behavior that has long been associated with this breed.
Character
The Miniature Schnauzer is an avid, fair-minded and intelligent breed. They are an excellent companion with their fun and courageous characters. These dogs are protective, alert, and loyal, but are not suitable as guardians due to their size.