Utility group · Germany
Miniature Schnauzer
Also called Mini Schnauzer, Zwergschnauzer.
What makes them remarkable
This little bearded dog was developed by crossing the farm-working Standard Schnauzer with smaller breeds.
- Friendly
- Smart
- Obedient
- Alert
- Spirited
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5 to 9 kg11 to 20 lb
- Lives
- 12 to 15 years
- Energy
- Moderate
- Trains
- High
- Barks
- High
Training
Training a Miniature Schnauzer
Utility breeds. Many of these think before they obey. Earn compliance with reward and consistency; they do not do it for free.
Food Sensitivity
Start here
Watch fat intake, prone to pancreatitis.
Eager Learners
Very trainable, responds well to positive methods.
Barking Tendency
Alert barkers, train 'quiet' command early.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Miniature Schnauzer and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Breeds developed for a job that no longer exists or never fitted a group. Includes the spitz and primitive breeds.
Gets on with
- ChildrenHigh
- Other dogsHigh
- StrangersHigh
- CatsModerate
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 45 minutes daily. Walks and play.
- Grooming
- High maintenance. Regular professional grooming.
- Drool
- Low
- Coat
- Double coat, WirySalt & Pepper, Black, Black & Silver
- In a flat
- Can work, with enough exercise outside it.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Pancreatitis
Moderate
Watch dietary fat
Hyperlipidemia
Moderate
High blood fat levels
Cataracts
Moderate
Eye problems
Where they come from
History
Developed in Germany by crossing Standard Schnauzers with smaller breeds.
Similar breeds
All breeds
American Eskimo Dog
Despite its name, this breed descends from German Spitz dogs and became famous in American circuses.
Small · Utility
Boston Terrier
Its hometown is in its name: this American companion was developed in 19th-century Boston.
Small · Utility
French Bulldog
The Frenchie’s story crosses the Channel: English lace workers brought small Bulldogs with them to France.
Small · Utility
Keeshond
This Dutch barge dog became a symbol of the Patriot political movement in the 18th century.
Medium · Utility