Overview
The Miniature Schnauzer is a German based breed that started out by breeding a Standard Schnauzer with smaller breeds such as the Poodle, Miniature Pinscher and Affenpinscher. This breed is most recognized by its beard that surrounds the muzzle or “schnauzer,” which is the German translation for muzzle. It was originally bred to help with rodent problems, particularly rats, but has become known around the world as a wonderful companion dog.
Activity
The miniature Schnauzer is a very active dog that is full of energy, but can still get plenty of exercise if kept indoors. They do tend to enjoy long walks and running around in a larger yard during playtime as well. They shouldn't be left alone for long periods of time as they tend to become destructive and a bit noisy. They need constant stimulation as well, both physical and mental, to keep them happy.
Care
Miniature Schnauzers will need professional grooming on a regular basis to keep their coats healthy and looking good. But you should brush them on a daily basis to keep their coats from matting in between grooming trips. You should trim their beards regularly as well. They are pretty much shed free, which makes them great for families with allergies.
Character
The Miniature Schnauzer is a very well-mannered breed that can be extremely obedient given the right training. They need to be kept as a companion and do not do well in a kennel setting because of how perky they can be. They are very active but do not require as much exercise as the standard breed of Schnauzer, and works well as a watch dog as they tend to notice when things cross into their territory that aren't supposed to be there.
Coat
The outer coat of the Miniature Schnauzer is wiry and a bit hard to the touch. The undercoat is soft and very dense and bears long hair on its beard, legs, and chest. You will need to pluck dead hair from this breed's coat on a regular basis, and it is suggested to have this done by a professional whenever possible.
Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer is very easy to train as they are so highly intelligent, but you should watch them closely as they tend to be fearless in the face of danger. They can go after dogs much bigger than themselves without warning. As they age, they tend to become more territorial. These dogs bark at any threat they may sense but are not overly noisy. Nor do they bark randomly. This is a breed that the bark is scarier than their bite, which makes them great watchdogs.
Training
The Miniature Schnauzer can be a very willful breed that requires a consistent and firm t owner or they'll start believing they're the ones in charge. Miniature Schnauzers must be trained to understand that they're not the leader of the pack or they will develop the Small Dog Syndrome and become the alpha in the family setting. Because of their status issues, they will need to be socialized and trained very early in life. If done right, this breed will show their intelligence by doing their best to learn any tricks you teach them with ease.