Sometimes people are used to thinking that Miniature dogs are just the same as the standard breed and that there is therefore nothing new or interesting about them. Of course, this is not true and the objective of Miniature breeds is usually to find new features that can transform it into an almost different breed. This is the case of the Miniature Schnauzer, a type of dog that maintains certain similarities to the standard breed but that certainly adds some of its own. Discover them right now!
As it usually happens, Miniature breeds are not the exclusive result of breeding with small specimens of the standard breed. The Miniature Schnauzer does not only contain genes of the the Standard Schnauzer but also from some other wonderful breeds such as the Poodle and the Affenpinscher among others. The main reason of this breeding was to develop a dog that could achieve the best results in hunting and tracking tasks. This breed was born in Germany although the moment of its birth is not certain. The Miniature Schnauzer currently counts with the recognition of the AKC, the FCI, the UKC, the CKC and many others.
The appearance of the Miniature Schnauzer is almost identical to the one of the standard one. Its measurements are usually 12 to 14 inches of height and 10 to 15 pounds of weight. The body is well proportioned and square shaped, with short but powerful legs and a strong neck. While the tail is normally docked, the ears are V shaped and erect. As for the eyes, they are oval and usually dark. Some funny and typical elements of the Miniature Schnauzer are the bushy eyebrows and the beard which makes them look like old and funny creatures. The coat is short and harsh to the touch. It covers the entire body of the dog but it is especially abundant on the chest and on the legs, where it becomes somewhat wavy. Colors can be black, white, silver and brindle in different tones.
The Miniature Schnauzer does very well in apartments and it is considered to be a really good option for families. It is a truly energetic dog that will require constant attention and daily walks to relax and spend all of its stamina. They are quite healthy dogs although skin conditions, diabetes, kidney stones and cysts might be common. They are really long lived animals that can easily reach fifteen years and more of life.
Finally, the temperament of the Miniature Schnauzer is quite peculiar. They combine elements of full devotion and dependence to their masters but they also have a mind of their own that sometimes needs to be controlled. They are really intelligent dogs and if properly taught will immediately learn who is the boss. They can become great watchdogs, or at least they would think so since their size will not be entirely adequate for such activities. They are loud barkers and will always need to be controlled when around other animals due to their natural hunting instinct. The Miniature Schnauzer loves human company and does really well with children.
