Miniature Schnauzer
If you are looking for a dog with a lively personality that is energetic and loyal, you might want to look at a Miniature Schnauzer puppy or Mini Schnauzer as they are sometimes known. You may also want to consider adopting an adult Miniature Schnauzer.
Miniature Schnauzers are quite a distinctive dog. They tend to have quite a muscular frame and have a square set.
The length of the dog should be equal to it's height at the withers. They have a distinctive feathering on the legs and a long beard with feathered eyebrows.
Generally speaking, they will grow to a height of 12in.(30cm) to 14in.(35cm) measured at the withers. The average adult weight for this breed is 10 lbs(4.5kg) to 15 lbs(7kg).
Description
They come in three main colors; Black, salt and pepper, black and silver. You may also find white as well. Due to cross breeding, other more rare colors may exist but these aren't officially recognized. This should be considered if you intend to show your Mini Schnauzer. This type of dog is often preferred as a house pet because they have a hard wiry coat that doesn't really shed.
This dog breed make excellent watchdogs due to their inerrant natural tendancy to be very vocal. In badly trained Miniature Schnauzers, this vocalization can get out of hand but with a well trained dog this won't be a problem. Being such a lively dog, this breed will need sufficient exercise to prevent them from becoming over energetic. They will happily go on long walks or run along if you go jogging.
The Miniature Schnauzer is quite a sociable dog and loves the company of its owner. However, if left alone though for long periods, they can become destructive and very vocal due to frustration and boredom.
Training
This breed are known for their intelligence. This makes training the Miniature Schnauzer an easy task compared to other breeds. Though they do require lots of attention and affection from their owners. Whilst this dog breed thrives in the family environment, they tend to expect a certain element of respect. As a result, they can prove to be intolerant of very young children. This breed is more suited to a family whose children are old enough to appreciate this.
Health Issues
Health wise, Miniature Schnauzers are prone to pancreatic and diabetes. Very occasionally, a genetic disorder can leave them predisposed to idiopathic hyperlipidemia. This is a condition where the dog has a high level of fat in the blood. Also care must be taken to provide a good diet as weight gain is another problem that may be encountered. |
