Miniature Schnauzer Dog Breed Information

Group

Terriers

Weight

4-5 kg

Height

25-32 cm

Lifespan

14-16 years

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About the Miniature Schnauzer

Reviewed by:

Dr. Liza Cahn

Veterinarian

The Miniature Schnauzer packs a lot inside its small stature and is considered to be one of the favourites for many who want a dog of this size.

With an extroverted temperament and a fun-loving, intelligent, and affectionate personality, these dogs tick off many boxes for both experienced and first-time dog owners. Read on to learn more about this breed!

What is the history & origin of the Miniature Schnauzer?

Where does the miniature schnauzer come from? Well, they were originally bred to be guard dogs and ratters on farms. Developed in the late 19th century in Germany, they resulted from crossbreeding a standard Schnauzer with a smaller dog, such as the Poodle, Minature Pinscher, and Affenpinscher to name a few.

The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1926 and has grown in popularity since. Mini Schnauzers are now beloved members of many households.

What is a Miniature Schnauzer breed?

The Miniature Schnauzer is a breed known not only for its distinctive physical attributes but also for its vibrant personality. With a unique look marked by a characteristic mustache, long legs relative to its body, and a wiry coat, this breed is instantly recognizable. Its coat predominantly comes in shades of black and silver.

At the heart of a Miniature Schnauzer is an energetic, lively, and affectionate soul. Their extroverted nature often means they’re eager to be part of family activities and enjoy being in the limelight. Known for their sharp intelligence, they’re often quick learners but can sometimes exhibit a mischievous streak. Despite their small size, they have a spirited and sometimes feisty attitude, typical of many terrier breeds. Their loyalty to their families is unquestionable, making them both great companions and alert watchdogs.

According to the American Kennel Club, while the Miniature Schnauzer belongs to the Terrier group, its relative, the Standard Schnauzer, is classified under the Working group.

Learn more about: Miniature Schnauzer Colours

Who is a Miniature Schnauzer best for?

The Miniature Schnauzer is a versatile and adaptable breed, making it suitable for a wide range of households and individuals. Here are some key points to consider:

Family Homes: With their affectionate and playful nature, Miniature Schnauzers fit well into family settings. They enjoy interaction and can be great playmates for children, though as with all breeds, early socialization and supervised interactions are crucial.
Active Individuals: This breed thrives in an environment where it can expend its energy. Whether it’s daily walks, play sessions, or dog sports, an active lifestyle with at least an hour of daily exercise is beneficial for the Miniature Schnauzer.
Apartment Dwellers: While they appreciate having a yard to explore, Miniature Schnauzers can adapt to apartment living as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.
First-time Dog Owners: Due to their trainable nature and manageable size, Miniature Schnauzers can be a good choice for first-time dog owners. However, it’s essential to invest time in training and set consistent boundaries, as this breed can occasionally exhibit a stubborn streak.
Those Seeking Companionship: Often referred to as “velcro dogs,” Miniature Schnauzers are known to be deeply loyal and often prefer being close to their humans. They can be excellent companions for those living alone or seniors seeking a furry friend.
Allergy Sufferers: While no dog breed is entirely hypoallergenic, the Miniature Schnauzer’s wiry coat tends to shed less and produce fewer allergens, making them a suitable option for some individuals with allergies.
Guardians of Property: Their history as guard dogs and ratters means they have a natural instinct to alert their owners to intruders or unusual noises. This makes them effective watchdogs, even if their size doesn’t necessarily make them intimidating.

Miniature Schnauzer Grooming & Shedding

Grooming is an important part of any dog’s routine and they rely on their owners to look after them appropriately.

Schnauzer breeds have a double coat – a softer undercoat and a wiry top coat. As a result, most don’t shed much!

Brush your Miniature Schnauzer two to three times a week and bathe as needed if they become dirty or smelly. If you are going for the distinctive Schnauzer look, professional grooming may be needed. Like any breed, these dogs also need their teeth brushed and nails trimmed.

Learn more about: Miniature Schnauzer Grooming Tips & Styles

Do Miniature Schnauzers bark a lot?

Barking is a common trait within this breed, and they will bark for a variety of reasons. This is part of their territorial instinct to guard and protect their human owners. This isn’t such a bad thing when it comes to protecting the home, but you may want to curb some of this barking with training.

It’s essential to understand the cause of the barking to address it effectively. Positive reinforcement techniques, providing ample exercise and mental stimulation, and consistent training can all help in reducing unnecessary barking.

What is the average weight & height of a Miniature Schnauzer dog?

Despite them being Mini Schnauzers, they’re not as small as people think (especially in comparison to toy size dog breeds).

Height:

Males: Typically between 30.5 to 35.5 cm at the shoulder.

Females: Generally in the same range, though some might be slightly shorter.

Weight:

Typically between 5-9 kg

Learn more about: Miniature Schnauzer Size & Weight Chart

Are Miniature Schnauzers easy to train?

Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent and eager to please, but they also have a strong-willed side. Here are some training tips tailored for this breed:

Start Early: Begin training your Miniature Schnauzer as soon as you bring them home. Puppies are like sponges, eager and ready to learn.
Consistency is Key: Be consistent with commands and routines. Changing commands or allowing unwanted behaviors intermittently will confuse the dog and prolong the training process.
Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and toys as rewards. Positive reinforcement strengthens the bond between you and your dog and encourages the desired behavior. Avoid harsh disciplinary methods as they can lead to fear or aggression.
Socialization: Expose your puppy to various environments, people, and other animals from a young age. This helps in preventing aggression and fearfulness later in life.
Manage Barking: Being vocal by nature, it’s crucial to teach your Mini Schnauzer the “Quiet” command early on. If they bark at something, acknowledge what they’re barking at, and then give the “Quiet” command.
Regular Exercise: A well-exercised dog is less likely to exhibit problematic behaviors. Daily walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation (like puzzle toys) can help keep your Schnauzer content and well-behaved.
Recall Training: Practice recall regularly in a secure environment. Due to their occasional prey drive towards small animals, it’s crucial for Miniature Schnauzers to have reliable recall.
Enroll in Puppy Classes: This provides an excellent opportunity for socialization and basic obedience training under the guidance of a professional.
Grooming Training: Given their grooming needs, it’s beneficial to get your Schnauzer accustomed to the grooming process early on. Make it a positive experience using treats and praise.
Stay Patient: There might be days when training feels challenging. Remember that every dog has its own pace. Stay patient, and celebrate small victories along the way.

Regular training sessions, combined with love and patience, will ensure your Miniature Schnauzer grows into a well-adjusted and well-mannered companion. Remember that every dog is an individual, and what works best for one might need tweaking for another.

Learn more about: Miniature Schnauzer Training Guide – Crate, Toilet & More Tips!

How do Miniature Schnauzers behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Miniature schnauzers are full of life and have an extroverted temperament, so they’re likely to get on with pretty much anyone they meet. This charming dog breed is one that often wants to be in close proximity to their family. They’ll be more than keen to sleep by your side too in bed if given the chance.

As a terrier, they’re a feisty breed. They’re very intelligent, meaning they can be a menace at times but with proper training, they can be well-rounded dogs.

Learn more about: Miniature Schnauzer Temperament & Personality Traits

Does the Miniature Schnauzer have any common health issues?

A Miniature Schnauzer is susceptible to certain conditions, just like any other dog. Here are a couple of problems that are common with the miniature schnauzer.

Cataracts: This condition is characterized by a cloudiness in the lens of the eye, leading to impaired vision or potential blindness. Cataracts often develop with age but can also have hereditary factors.
Urinary Stones: These are crystalline formations within the urinary tract. Symptoms include straining while urinating or the presence of blood in the urine. While some stones pass on their own, others might require medical intervention.
Pancreatitis: Miniature Schnauzers are prone to this inflammation of the pancreas, which can be triggered by high-fat foods or other factors. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Hyperlipidemia: Common in Miniature Schnauzers, this is an elevated level of lipids (fats) in the bloodstream. It can be hereditary or due to dietary habits and may lead to pancreatitis if not managed.
Liver Shunts: Also known as portosystemic shunts, these are abnormal blood vessels that divert blood around the liver instead of through it. This condition can lead to stunted growth, seizures, and other neurological issues.
Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC): This is a very rare bacterial infection that can cause a range of symptoms, from lethargy and weight loss to more severe respiratory and digestive issues.

Awareness and early detection are crucial. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor for these conditions and initiate timely interventions, ensuring a healthier life for your Miniature Schnauzer. Additionally, it is important to find a reputable breeder who utilizes appropriate testing for hereditary conditions.

Learn more about: Common Miniature Schnauzer Health Issues

What is the lifespan of a Miniature Schnauzer?

The Miniature Schnauzer can live up to 12-15 years if looked after properly.

How much does a Miniature Schnauzer need to be fed?

You should work together with your trusted veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to decide the most appropriate food for your pup.

When choosing a diet, look for WSAVA and AAFCO seals of approval, indicating that the food is complete and balanced. Avoid boutique diets such as raw and grain-free, as these have been linked to infection and heart disease.

Most owners feed two meals per day after puppyhood, with the amount depending on your dog’s diet, size, and activity level. This breed has a tendency to become overweight and may overeat if given the chance. You can give your dog quality treats in moderation, especially during training, but avoid feeding table scraps as this could be unhealthy and also result in unwanted begging behaviour.

Learn more about: What to Feed a Miniature Schnauzer? Diet & Feeding Chart

How much can you expect to pay for a Miniature Schnauzer in Australia?

For a Miniature Schnauzer, you’ll expect to pay anywhere between $2,500 to $4,000 depending on the breeders available in your local area and beyond. It’s essential to recognize that the initial cost of the puppy is only a small part of the total expenses. Ongoing costs for food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and other necessities should also be factored into your budget.

Be sure that you find a breeder who follows responsible breeding practices and utilizes appropriate testing and veterinary care to contribute to the health and temperament of their puppies.

You can always visit your local animal shelter or seek out a breed-specific rescue to adopt a puppy or an adult dog – rescue Schnauzers can make fantastic pets too!

Learn more about: Miniature Schnauzer Prices In Australia

Miniature Schnauzer FAQs

Do Miniature Schnauzers like to cuddle?

Miniature Schnauzers do enjoy a cuddle, but they may prefer to stick with the one person who is their favourite.

What does owning a Miniature Schnauzer say about you?

The Mini Schnauzer is a generally well-mannered and fun-loving dog, so as its owner you’ll certainly be considered a fun-loving person yourself.

Are Miniature Schnauzers prone to separation anxiety?

Yes, due to their affectionate nature this breed prefers to be with family. If you’re part of a household that’s often out and about where dogs can’t go, then this might not be the right breed for you.

Are Miniature Schnauzers hypoallergenic?

Due to their wiry top coat, they don’t produce much in the way of dander or shedding. While this breed is not technically hypoallergenic, they may be a good option for those with allergies or asthma.

Can Miniature Schnauzers be left alone?

Whilst the Miniature Schnauzer can be trained like other dogs to spend time alone for a few hours, they may not do well being left alone for long periods of time. As a result, they can be quite destructive to their surroundings if left for too long and not trained for separation.