Miniature Schnauzer - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Small - medium

Height: 33 - 35.6 cm (13 - 14 inches)

Weight: About 6.5 kg (14 lb)

Life Span: 15 years

Grooming: Straightforward

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Undemanding

Temperament: Alert & intelligent

Country of Origin: Germany

AKC Group: Terrier

Other Names: Zwergschnauzer

Temperament:

The Miniature Schnauzer is intelligent, lively, alert and bold. These energetic dogs may be too boisterous for the very young or elderly. Miniature Schnauzers make good watchdogs and are very loyal towards their family. They can be stubborn and can have their own ideas about their handlers commands. Miniature Schnauzers get along with children and household pets but are wary of strangers and will announce their arrival with full throated barking.

Grooming:

The coat of the Miniature Schnauzer needs to be plucked by hand at least twice a year. They should not be clipped as it can ruin the coat for many years. The excess hair between the pads of the feet, however can be clipped and the loose hair in the ear canals should be removed.

Exercise:

Miniature Schnauzers are very energetic and they love being outdoors. They enjoy country walks and roaming around the garden. Although they enjoy their exercise they won't grumble if they aren't out and about all the time.

History:

It is believed that Schnauzers evolved from German Wirehaired pinschers, black poodles and a spitz-like grey dog. They date back to the 15th and 16th centuries when they were used for herding, ratting and guarding. The German breeders then created a miniature sized version through crosses with the Affenpinscher, thus giving us the Miniature Schnauzer that we know today.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Robust, hardy and squarely-built.

Color: Black, grey or 'pepper and salt' (dark grey).

Coat: The outer coat is harsh, wiry and thick. The undercoat is dense.

Tail: Set high and customarily docked.

Ears: Set high, V-shaped with the tips dropping forward towards the temple. In some countries they can be cropped and carried erect.

Body: The chest is moderately wide and the back is short. The belly is slightly raised and the shoulders are flat and muscular.

Additional Comments:

* Miniature Schnauzer's are characterized by bushy eyebrows, a stubby moustache and a beard. These embellishments should be brushed regularly to prevent tangles.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/schnauzer_miniature/