Schnauzer (Miniature)

The Schnauzer has been a working farm dog in Germany since at least the 14th century where it took the role of a fearless terrier largely employed to kill vermin but could also turn their paw to flock-guarding, property guarding and cattle driving.

The ancestry of the Miniature Schnauzer is not quite so clear although we know it dates from the end of the 19th century - with some saying that the Schnauzer was crossed with the Affenpinscher to create this miniaturisation, while other claim that Miniature Poodles, Pomeranians, Scottish Terriers and Miniature Pinchers could have contributed to the breed.

The original idea was to produce a smaller vermin killer but they soon became far better known as companion dogs.

Mini Schnauzer people will have a strong sense of humour, the ability to provide plenty of exercise and training, and some grooming skills. A Schnauzer without the trademark eyebrows, beard and trousers is, well, some might say sacrilege! However keeping those longer areas clean, mat free and tidy will require some effort You should have some terrier experience, as although Mini Schnauzers are in the Utility group, their ancestry is quite heavily terrier based. If you can supply the entertaining, socialisation and training then the Mini Schnauzer makes a fun and active companion who can take part in most of the dog sports, for either the child-free family or those with older/sensible children.

While the Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog, they are an active breed who will enjoy long walks and will need over an hour a day’s exercise - plus will enjoy games, training, interactive toys and being involved in all family activities at the rest of the time too.

This is a small dog who doesn’t need much space - although will appreciate a garden. As they can be noisy - especially if left or bored - they are unlikely to do well in a flat or where neighbours can be easily disturbed, unless well stimulated and with constant company.

Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.

The coat of the Miniature Schnauzer is harsh, wiry and short with a dense undercoat. All-over grooming is required at least twice a week. Hand stripping is a must for the show ring, but clipping is straightforward and easy for a family dog, although the body colour does pale over the years.

This is an active dog who is smart and busy - and occasionally noisy - who will need training if you want any hopes of a quiet life! They are however a joy to train as they are intelligent and fun - but they will learn bad habits as quickly as good ones so reward-based training should start early and be ongoing. Special attention should be paid to training a reliable recall.

Some Miniature Schnauzers enjoy agility and even heelwork to music so they make great companions for anyone interested in fun dog sports.

If they are to live with cats, it’s best to find a puppy from a cat-owning breeder. Usually they will live happily with their own cats although may well chase others and not be reliable around other small animals.

The Miniature Schnauzer can make an excellent family dog where there are older children.

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.