Miniature Schnauzer

Origin and History

The Miniature Schnauzer was developed in Germany by downsizing the Standard Schnauzer to hunt rodents on farms. With its signature beard, eyebrows and lively personality, it is today one of the most popular terrier-type breeds.

Appearance and Coat

It has a small, sturdy, square-built body with a characteristic bushy beard and eyebrows. Its harsh, wiry double coat comes in "pepper and salt," black, or black and silver; it sheds little but needs regular grooming and periodic clipping.

Temperament and Personality

The Miniature Schnauzer is friendly, intelligent and lively. It loves people and gets along well with children and other animals. Alert and prone to barking, it makes a good watchdog. It is playful, curious and trainable, and has a prey drive.

Care, Exercise and Training

Its wiry coat needs regular brushing and periodic clipping or hand-stripping; it sheds little. It needs moderate to high exercise. Smart and eager to please, it responds well to reward-based training, and early socialization helps keep barking in check.

Health

Pancreatitis, high blood fat (hyperlipidemia), bladder stones, cataracts and breed-specific MPS (a DNA test is available) may occur. A low-fat diet and regular checkups are important. The Miniature Schnauzer is ideal for families looking for a friendly, intelligent, low-shedding family dog who can make time for coat care.