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All About The Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer 101:
Bones Chart
How They Score
0 - 5 Bones
| Trainability |  |
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| General Breed Health | |
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| Easily Housebroken | |
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| Low Maintenance | 0 bones-Not Low Maintenance | |
| Good w/Other Pets | | |
| Non-Shedding | |
Watch Dogs-Miniature Schnauzers make keen watch dogs! They aren't normally yappy. If your mini is barking, there's probably a pretty good reason.
Size- This dog stands about 12-14" high at the shoulders and will generally grow to around 13-15 pounds, but that can vary slightly (give or take) in a pet quality dog.
Friendly- Miniature Schnauzers possess their very own gentle and affectionate temperament. They're loving dogs in family life and enjoy nothing more than the company of their people. Like all dogs, proper socialization is important as a puppy to help alleviate shyness around strangers, children and other animals.
Trainability- They are quick learners who want to please. Patience, praise and treats will go a long way with a Miniature Schnauzer. Learn all the tricks and some great training techniques by clicking here.
Loyalty-Miniature Schnauzers are faithful, affectionate and loyal companions. They love to be in close proximity of their owners. They want to sit beside you on the couch, sleep with you in the bed and even ride along with you on joy rides.
Non Shedding- We have included minis on our non-shedding small-breed-dogs page. Anyone with allegies to dander should first test their tolerance before making a commitment to own this breed. Their unique coat, though it doesn't shed, also does not provide much protection from harsh climates. Your Schnauzer may need a sweater for warmth and comfort when taken for their daily walks in the winter.
Miniature Schnauzers make great companions and even love children, typically. They are a compact and sturdy breed, not particularly fragile so this is one small breed dog that will tolerate a well behaved child. But you have to be honest with yourself. If your child is not the most gentle, don't take a chance that your dog (or your child) will get hurt by placing them in an unfair situation. Wait until your child gets a bit older.
What To Expect
Housebreaking Difficulties- Small Breed Dogs are generally the hardest dogs to housebreak. You'll need to be very patient and consistent. I recommend these positive training techniques.
Separation Anxiety- is common with this breed. He will often show frustration by destructive chewing and barking or by hiking his leg on your potted houseplant. Click here to learn how you can stop these behaviors.
A 15+ Year Commitment-Buying or adopting a dog is a commitment to take care of him for his entire lifetime. If you're planning a move or a career or lifestyle change or if you're unsure of your financial ability to feed, vet, groom, house or properly care for another living creature, do the responsible thing (for yourself and the dog) and wait until you're ready.
Disregarding the hype- There is technically no such thing as a ‘tea cup’ Schnazuer. This is an invented term used to market tiny dogs and sell them for ridiculous prices.
Chasing Instinct- Being in the business of dogs, I notice this breed way too often in the "Lost" sections of classifieds and online Canine Amber Alerts. They are terriers and are likely to bolt and chase any random moving object, like squirrels, birds, etc. Never walk without a leash.
-Health Issues-
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a condition affecting the eyes of many minis. Often called night-blindness, it becomes far more serious as the disease progresses.
Liver Shunt- Possible symptoms to look for include- poor muscle development, small stature, strange behavior, unresponsiveness and seizures.
Schnauzer Bumps- AKA Schnauzer Comedome Syndrome. This condition is skin related. Comedomes are blackheads and the condition is not normally serious except in extreme cases or when they become infected. Therefore, schnauzers should be kept free of fleas and close attention should be paid to any skin allergy.
Canine Pancreatitis- Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas and it can vary in intensity. With this condition, the pancreas does not properly release the enzymes needed for good digestive health. Any unusual symptoms in your dog should always warrant a trip the vet.
Side Note: Why not consider Adoption First? With the popularity of small dogs increasing, so too is the population of unwanted dogs increasing. There are several Miniature Schnauzers near you in need of rescue. Your future dog could be waiting.
Please read our FAQ page to learn all the ways that finding a responsible breeder could help put an end to the torture of this breed and other small breed dogs.
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