Here at Postman Pooch, we recommend the Miniature Schnauzer. The adorable Miniature Schnauzer is a dog breed that has it all; from acute intelligence to charmingly good looks and superb personality traits. Plus, above all else, the dog has one awesome moustache! Come on, look at it! These things look cooler than The Hoff in the eighties; stick a pair of sunglasses on them and you’ll see exactly what we’re talking about!
Your Miniature Schnauzer will probably let you too; the breed has a wonderful temperament and absolutely adores human interaction. So if you’re thinking of getting this particular breed of dog, expect lots of cuddles and plenty of attention. Some other names you may have heard being used to describe this breed are:
- Zwergschnauzer
- Mini Schnauzer
- Dwarf Schnauzer
Small and Square-ish Breed of Dog
When it comes to appearance, the Mini Schnauzer is small in stature but huge-hearted and extremely sturdy. You may be forgiven for thinking the dog is made from furry Lego too, as Schnauzers, in general, are quite rectangular in shape. Even the head is quite square and edgy, with a strong muzzle and deep-set eyes. The most distinctive features of a Mini Schnauzer include V-shape folding ears; straight legs and its facial hair resembling that of a moustache, beard and eyebrows.
Miniature Schnauzer Personality and Temperament
Perhaps the most notable personality trait in the Miniature Schnauzer is its remarkable intelligence. You’re also in store for a very loving, energetic and playful dog that gets along with humans of all ages. Affectionate and docile, this is a perfect family pet and lifetime companion. Right proper guidance and leadership it can socialise well with other dogs, but the mini schnauzer is a people-loving dog more than anything else! They may be wary and reserved with strangers but most just need the time to warm up to people.
Due to the dog’s intelligence though, as an owner, you must retain authority and respect at all times. This is because the dog will not listen to you or respect your commands if it feels it is stronger minded than you are. As an owner, you must be calm and loving but firm and directive, with a natural sense of authority.
If it does get to the point where your Miniature Schnauzer believes he or she is boss of the house, they can be prone to developing what is called ‘Small Dog Syndrome’. This can instigate various different behavioural problems including separation anxiety, barking, guarding and the habit of attacking much bigger dogs. This shouldn’t be the case if you provide yours with a well-balanced diet and enough physical and mental exercise; this way your dog will remain happy and perfectly behaved.
Miniature Schnauzer Exercise Regime
As they come with bags of energy, these little fury tykes need long walks or jogs on a daily basis. They love to be let off the lead, as long as it is safe to do so and you have taught them effective recall techniques. Miniature Schnauzers that do not get walked daily are more prone to develop behavioural problems also, so exercise is important. Such a small breed does not require a massively extensive walk, just a brisk 30-60 minutes should do.
More Miniature Schnauzers Characteristics
Miniature Schnauzers are really loving dogs and very affectionate, so in that respect, they are very sensitive. But on the flipside, they are not little softies and they are not known for making much fuss in terms of whining or crying. They can tolerate being alone for a little while so there is no need to worry about that. They are also not averse to a bit of cold weather, nor do they mind a little bit of a sunbathe. Do you live in an apartment? That’s not so much of a problem either as it would be for other, larger dogs. They adapt well to apartment living, as long as they get their exercise!
Main Advantages of Miniature Schnauzers
As touched upon previously, one of the best traits of the Miniature Schnauzer is its loveable interaction with humans. This dog is a people-dog for sure. Extroverted with moderately high energy, they just always want to have fun. This is extremely easy for you, as being with you is as fun as it gets! Other advantages include:
- Small and sturdy but elegant and athletic;
- The wiry coat doesn’t shed too much;
- Very wise and attractive dog;
- Makes a keen watchdog;
- Good with kids and other family pets.
If it’s raining outside and you need another way of stimulating your Miniature Schnauzer, teach him some new tricks and reward him with treats. This dog learns very quickly and is smart enough to learn anything and another dog can learn.
Main Disadvantages of Miniature Schnauzers
Miniature Schnauzers are very protective of their family, especially around strangers. You have to let your dog know that people are welcome in your home; otherwise, they can become a little hostile and protective in their behaviour. The bark can also be very piercing – but the dog is just trying to protect the home and let you know that he just heard a branch fall on the floor 5 houses down the road. Because of course, you need to know that. Other disadvantages of this dog include:
- You must keep them busy and active to avoid behavioural problems;
- Can become suspicious and shy if not socialised enough;
- Can be stubborn at times;
- Regular clipping and trimming of its wiry coat;
- Gains weight very easily via overfeeding.
There are also a number of health problems that are associated with this breed including liver disease; diabetes; kidney stones; skin disorders and hereditary eye problems. Regular veterinary checks are a must for this breed of dog as a result.
Miniature Schnauzer Maintenance
Let’s get down to the messy business – the maintenance! The dog’s coat is not that hard to groom in all fairness, despite needing regular (almost daily) attention. You should always comb or brush your Miniature Schnauzers coat on a daily basis to prevent matting. Any mats that do appear need to be cut or shaven out. At least twice a year, as seasons change from warmer to colder, they should also be clipped all over to an even length.
A little trimming is also required around the eyes and ears so that the big bushy eyebrows and beard do not start to cover the face. Use blunt-nosed scissors to do this and always clean the beards and whiskers after meal times to avoid build-up. With this level of maintenance your dog should shed little hair if any at all. As a result, the Miniature Schnauzer is a great dog for those with allergies.
