breed information
History:The Miniature Schnauzer is reportedly a result of crosses between the Standard Schnauzer, the Affenpinscher and perhaps the Poodle. He is originally a German breed, named after the German word for muzzle, "Schnauze". The Miniature Schnauzer excels at killing rats, but today is mostly a popular and esteemed companion.
Description:
A small, squarely proportioned terrier with a long head, bushy beard, mustache and eyebrows. The front legs are very straight. The oval eyes are dark colored and the nose is black. The V-shaped ears fold forward when left natural or are cropped to a point and stand erect. The salt-and-pepper, black, or black-and-silver outer coat is harsh with a soft undercoat. On pet dogs, the coat is usually clipped short on the upper body and left somewhat longer on the underparts, legs and head. Show dogs require trimming and hand stripping instead of clipping.
Notes:
Avoid back yard breeder, puppy mill and pet shop Miniature Schnauzers; this is one of the most popular terrier breeds and unscrupulous or careless breeders take advantage of the demand to offer inferior animals. Select a puppy from a reputable breeder. Some lines are prone to kidney stones, cataracts, cysts, skin problems, von Willebrand's disease, diabetes and liver ailments. Don't overfeed as the breed tends to put on weight easily. A good watchdog and a fine dog for traveling. The Miniature Schnauzer is virtually non-shedding and therefore is easy on allergy sufferers.
Personality:
Very perky and bright-eyed. Loving, intelligent and more trainable than many terrier breeds. Playful, happy and alert. Likes children. Demands time and companionship from his owner. Can be feisty with other dogs, putting on a show of superiority without necessarily intending to fight. This behavior can be dangerous for the Miniature Schnauzer, who will challenge even large dogs, sometimes bringing more trouble on himself than he really wanted. Since the temperament of this breed can be quite variable, select a puppy from parents whose temperaments you enjoy.
Behavior:
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Reserved with strangers.
Trainability: Easy to train.
Independence: Moderately dependent on people.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Generally good with other pets.
Combativeness: Tends to be fairly dog-aggressive.
Noise: Average barker.
Grooming and Physical Needs:
Grooming: Regular grooming is best.
Trimming & Stripping: Professional trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Wiry coat.
Shedding: Very light.
Docking: The ears are customarily cropped, and the tail is customarily docked.
Exercise: Moderate exercise needed.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Fairly active indoors.
Apartments: Good for apartment living.
Outdoor Space: Does all right without a yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Good for novice owners.
Talents:
hunting, tracking, watchdog, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.
