Miniature Schnauzers are small, sturdy, smart and spirited dogs that were bred in Germany as farm ratters. They are friendly, adaptable family companions that learn quickly, but they are often vocal, can be strong-willed, need regular professional-style grooming, and the breed has some health issues around diet worth knowing about.
This guide brings together everything we have written about Miniature Schnauzers. Start with the overview below, then follow the links to the full articles on the topics that matter to you.
Miniature Schnauzer at a glance
- Origin: Germany, in the late 1800s. They were bred down in size from the Standard Schnauzer to catch rats on farms.
- Size: small. The AKC standard is 12 to 14 inches at the shoulder, and the Kennel Club gives ideal heights of 36 cm (14 inches) for males and 33 cm (13 inches) for females. Most weigh roughly 11 to 20 pounds.
- Coat: a harsh, wiry double coat that sheds very little, with the breed’s famous beard and eyebrows. Colors are salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black.
- Breed group: the AKC places them in the Terrier Group, while the UK Kennel Club places them in the Utility Group.
- Temperament: alert, friendly, intelligent and lively, and usually a keen watchdog that is quick to bark.
- Health watch-outs: the breed is known to be prone to pancreatitis, high blood fat levels (hyperlipidemia) and bladder stones. Ask your vet about the right diet, and see them promptly if your dog has vomiting, belly pain or trouble peeing.
Getting to know the breed
Miniature Schnauzers are often called terriers, and in America they officially are, but their background is different from the British terrier breeds. Size can vary too, especially in dogs bred as pets rather than for showing. A Mini Schnauzer that is a little over or under the standard is not necessarily unhealthy or a mix.
- 10 Miniature Schnauzer facts you should know
- Are Miniature Schnauzers terriers?
- How big does a Miniature Schnauzer get?
Intelligence, training and behavior
Mini Schnauzers are quick learners that usually enjoy training, which makes them a good choice for first-time owners willing to be consistent. Common problems are barking, digging and bossiness. Most come down to boredom or unclear rules, so daily exercise, mental work and rewarding the behavior you want go a long way.
- How smart are Miniature Schnauzers?
- Dealing with Miniature Schnauzer behavior problems
- How to stop Miniature Schnauzers digging
- 7 useful tips for training your dog at home
Anxiety and time alone
Mini Schnauzers are sociable dogs that like to be with their people. Many cope well with being left for part of the day if they are well exercised, have something to keep them busy and are used to it gradually. Signs like constant barking, destruction or toileting only when you are out can point to anxiety and are worth tackling early.
- Helping with Mini Schnauzer anxiety problems
- Leaving a Miniature Schnauzer home alone
- The complete guide to leaving a dog home alone
Grooming and smell
The low-shedding coat keeps growing, so it needs regular brushing and clipping or hand-stripping every few weeks. Comb the beard and leg furnishings often to prevent mats, and wipe the beard after meals, since trapped food is a common cause of a smelly Schnauzer. Some also have oily skin. A smell that keeps coming back after bathing is worth checking with your vet.
- Bathing and brushing your Miniature Schnauzer
- Why does my Miniature Schnauzer smell?
- The best clippers for DIY dog grooming at home
- How to pluck dog ear hair
Diet and health
Because of the breed’s tendency to pancreatitis and high blood fats, it makes sense to keep a Mini Schnauzer slim and avoid fatty treats and table scraps. Your vet can recommend a suitable food and may suggest blood tests as your dog gets older.