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Hill’s Brand Horizon

Miniature Schnauzer

dog Breed Profile

Miniature Schnauzers are square-bodied dogs with wiry coats.

Attributes

Semi-prick ears (naturally).

Size

Weight

11-18 lbs.

10-15 lbs.

Height

13 in.

(at withers)

14 in.

Coat

Length

Medium

Color

Salt and pepper, black and silver, black

Care

Exercise

20-40 minutes/day.

Energy level

Average.

Longevity

12-14 years

Needs

High

Traits

Barking

High

Snoring

Low

Drooling

Low

Digging

Moderate

Grooming Needs

Moderate

Social Needs

High

Club recognition

AKC Class.

Terrier.

UKC Class.

Terrier.

Prevalence

Common

The Miniature Schnauzer Dog Breed

The original purpose of the Miniature Schnauzer was to catch rats on farms. Schnauzer means beard.

About the Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are square-bodied dogs with wiry coats.

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Miniature Schnauzer personality

Miniature Schnauzers are hardy, alert, spunky little dogs. They can be feisty and may put on a show of scrappiness when confronted by dogs they do not know.

The playfulness of miniature schnauzers makes them ideal for families with well-behaved children. They are also known for being obedient, quick to learn and devoted to their human packs.

What to expect

Miniature Schnauzers are adaptable. They can be just as happy living in a city apartment getting a couple of walks each day as they can be on a country estate with lots of room to run.

Because the breed is somewhat fearless around other dogs, it is important to introduce a Miniature Schnauzer to other dogs while still a puppy.

Miniature Schnauzers are sociable dogs that love to be with their people. Their deepest need is to be fully included in family activities, whether those activities center on watching television or going out for a run.

Because they do not shed, these dogs are ideal for people who are allergic to other breeds. However, they need to be groomed regularly frequent brushing, hair and nail trimming, and periodic clipping and stripping are necessary.

Miniature Schnauzers age gracefully they do not show signs of age until late in life. The average life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.

History of the Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are hardy, merry little dogs that were first bred in Germany in the late 19th century. They are descendants of Affenpinschers and Standard Schnauzers. Not only is he the smallest and most popular of the Schnauzers, but also the only Terrier not originating from European Isle stock.

The word schnauzer means beard. The original purpose of the Miniature Schnauzer was to catch rats on farms. Today, however, the Miniature Schnauzer's main mission in life is to bring companionship and joy to the people fortunate enough to live with this cheerful dog.

In 1933 the Miniature Schnauzer was recognized as a separate breed from the Standard Schnauzer by the AKC. At one time the miniature schnauzer was the third most popular breed in America, and it remains a favorite.

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