Dog Breed

Miniature Schnauzer

Confidence KingLong-livedHypoallergenic
Primary image of Miniature Schnauzer dog breed
Full Name
Miniature Schnauzer
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Life Span
12 - 14 years
Weight
11 - 20 pounds
Description

If you're looking for a confident, healthy, and strong dog that happens to be packaged in a small frame (11 - 20 pounds) then you've found your dog. The mini Schnauzer is the smallest of the schnauzer breeds but maintains much of it is proud terrier and schnauzer personality. It is very versatile and can be a big fit on a large farm with many acres, all the way to small apartment living. They can be demanding, but with proper socialization and training, make for an excellent dog. As an extra bonus- the mini Schnauzer is also hypoallergenic.

Origin
Germany
Bred For
Ratting
Attachments
    Family Considerations
    Child Friendly

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer good with children?

    Yes, the Miniature Schnauzer is very friendly with children. We still recommend introductions to children while they are young so they get used to them, but the Miniature Schnauzer naturally loves children.
    Stranger Friendly

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer friendly with strangers?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is about average in how friendly they are with strangers. They can be timid or protective, but with proper training and socialization can be fine for any household.
    Dog Friendly

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer friendly with other dogs?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is about average in how friendly they are with other dogs. They can be timid or defensive, but with proper training and socialization can be fine for dog parks and living with other dogs at home.
    Likes to Cuddle

    Does the Miniature Schnauzer like to cuddle?

    The Miniature Schnauzer likes to cuddle up every once in a while. They appreciate physical affection, but probably won't stay in your lap for extended amounts of time.
    Playfulness

    Does the Miniature Schnauzer like to play?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is playful both as a puppy and as an adult dog. As they get older they may appreciate their alone time, and may not be in the mood for constant play, but certainly will have plenty of time for play as well.
    Service Dog Ability

    Does the Miniature Schnauzer make a good service dog?

    The Miniature Schnauzer would not be a great fit as a service dog for several reasons.
    Overall Ease of Breed
    Ease for Novice

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer good for first-time owners?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is an excellent breed for first-time owners. They love pleasing their owner, and rarely are aggressive or over-dominant.
    Training Potential

    How well can the Miniature Schnauzer be trained?

    The Miniature Schnauzer can be trained very well. With discipline and a routine training program the Miniature Schnauzer can be incredibly well-trained.
    Amount of Shedding

    Does the Miniature Schnauzer shed a lot?

    The Miniature Schnauzer does shed, but less than average.
    Ease of Grooming

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer easy to groom?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is one of the toughest breeds for grooming. It takes time and money, but the result is a beautiful coat.
    Exercise Need

    Does the Miniature Schnauzer need a lot of exercise?

    The Miniature Schnauzer requires an average amount of exercise. You should be ready to dedicate a couple of short walks or a larger dog park session each day for your Miniature Schnauzer to be happy and fulfilled.
    Personality
    Intelligence

    How smart is the Miniature Schnauzer?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is one of the smartest dog breeds. Having a very smart dog is fun, but it is also demanding- they require mental challenge and stimulation just as much as physical exercise.
    Amount of Barking

    How much does the Miniature Schnauzer bark? Does the Miniature Schnauzer bark too much?

    The Miniature Schnauzer barks an average amount. It can vary widely between Miniature Schnauzers - some may be much more expressive than others.
    Guard Dog Ability

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer a good guard dog?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is not typically used as a guard dog, although they can be alert and oftentimes notify you if there is a stranger at the door or otherwise something to be concerned over.
    Tolerates Being Alone

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer good at staying alone? Is the Miniature Schnauzer independent?

    The Miniature Schnauzer does not enjoy being left alone for extended periods. They can do well for a couple of hours alone, but may have anxiety for time beyond that.
    Home and Environment Considerations
    Good for Apartment Living

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer a good apartment dog?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is an excellent dog breed for an apartment. Some daily exercise is still important, but if they get that then the apartment will be more than enough for them to call home.
    Size

    How big is the Miniature Schnauzer?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is one of the smallest dog breeds- suited well for apartment living and very convenient for travel.
    Tolerates Heat

    How much does the Miniature Schnauzer tolerate hot weather? When is it too hot for a Miniature Schnauzer?

    The Miniature Schnauzer can tolerate hot weather well. They still prefer having some variation and a cool space to sleep, but overall they can do well in warm climates.
    Tolerates Cold

    How much does the Miniature Schnauzer tolerate cold weather? When is it too cold for a Miniature Schnauzer?

    The Miniature Schnauzer can tolerate some cold, but should not be over-exposed to cold weather. In general, they can live in cold weather climates, but may need clothing on particularly cold evenings or in snow.
    Potential to Run Away

    Does the Miniature Schnauzer try to run away?

    The Miniature Schnauzer does not have a large drive to run away. They can still be distracted and run, so precautions should be taken, but overall they have a less than average urge to run away.
    Physical Characteristics
    General Health

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer a healthy dog? The health of a Miniature Schnauzer should be measured not just by how many years they live, but also by how many health issues they've had. It is important to know which health conditions your breed is prone to- hip problems, eye problems, bloating, and arthritis are all common dog health problems.

    The Miniature Schnauzer has many health problems that should be considered. The Miniature Schnauzer can still live a perfectly healthy life, but it's important to consider all of these health risks ahead of time.
    Energy Level

    How energetic is the Miniature Schnauzer?

    The Miniature Schnauzer has a lot of energy and this needs to be considered before bringing the Miniature Schnauzer into your home. Can you give your Miniature Schnauzer enough exercise? They will need several small daily walks, or a large dog park trip to get all of the energy out.
    Amount of Drooling

    How much does the Miniature Schnauzer drool?

    The Miniature Schnauzer does not drool at all.
    Prey Drive

    Does the Miniature Schnauzer have a large prey drive? Does the Miniature Schnauzer like to chase birds, cats, and other small animals?

    The Miniature Schnauzer does not have a large prey drive towards birds or even cats, and can typically do very well living in the same home as them.
    Athleticism

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer atheltic?

    The Miniature Schnauzer is athletic and has average levels of endurance. They need a lot of exercise, and can be an exercise partner as long as it's nothing too extreme.
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  • Secondary image of Miniature Schnauzer dog breed
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Breed Variations

  • Image for the Black variation for dog breed

    Black

  • Image for the Gray variation for dog breed

    Gray

  • Image for the Salt and Pepper variation for dog breed

    Salt and Pepper

  1. Terrier
  2. Schnauzer
  3. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a purebred dog that belongs to the Schnauzer sub group, which falls under the larger Terrier dog breed group.
Terrier group: Anyone who has had a terrier knows that they come with a big personality. Across the Terrier dog group there is much variation, but they are all feisty, proud, and extremely loyal to their family. With this strong personality comes stubbornness, so they are not the easiest dog, especially for a first time dog owner. However, with training and a strong owner, they can be some of the most rewarding dogs- their strong personality is fun, active, and will always bring something new. Terriers were originally bred for hunting, exterminating small vermin, and home protection. Terriers are a healthy and athletic breed. Because of this they require a good amount of exercise.
Schnauzer sub-group: If you needed a serious chief to run your city, but it had to be a dog, a Schnauzer would be a good option. They are very independent and intelligent. This can be seen in their proud gait... as they walk.. almost as if they are aware of their abilities and strengths. Generally these are all positive traits, but early training and a strong owner are essential. The Schnauzer is mid to high energy, and incredibly alert. They like to 'own' their space, so can sometimes become protective. Because of this they are excellent guard dogs, but again, they need good early socialization and training. In return you will be given an excellent family companion and guard dog. Schnauzers are also hypoallergenic, do not shed very much, and are not a huge breed- so they are a good apartment dog, especially for an owner who can give them the proper exercise.

Miniature Schnauzers for adoption

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