Mini Schnauzers

Size:

Weight Range:

Male: 11-18 lbs.
Female: 10-15 lbs.

Height at Withers:

Male: 14 in.

Female: 13 in.

Features:

Semi-prick ears (naturally).

Expectations:

Exercise Requirements: 20-40 minutes/day.
Energy Level: Average.
Longevity Range: 12-14 years
Tendency to Drool: Low. Tendency to Snore: Low.
Tendency to Bark: High.
Tendency to Dig: Moderate. Social/Attention Needs: High.

Coat:

Length: Medium.
Characteristics: Double coat, hard coat.
Colors: Salt and pepper, black and silver, black
Overall Grooming Needs: Moderate.

Miniature Schnauzers are square-bodied dogs with wiry coats.

Males stand 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh 11 to 18 pounds (5 to 8 kilograms); females stand from 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh 10 to 15 pounds (5 to 7 kilograms).

The dog's rectangular head is adorned with bushy eyebrows, a walrus-like mustache and a luxuriant beard. The ears are often cropped to stand erect. If left uncropped, the ears fold forward.

Most Miniature Schnauzers have salt-and-pepper coats, but some are solid black and others are black and silver.

Personality:

Miniature Schnauzers are hardy, alert, spunky little dogs. They can be feisty and may put on a show of scrappiness when confronted by dogs they do not know.

The playfulness of miniature schnauzers makes them ideal for families with well-behaved children. They are also known for being obedient, quick to learn and devoted to their human packs.

Living With:

Miniature Schnauzers are adaptable. They can be just as happy living in a city apartment getting a couple of walks each day as they can be on a country estate with lots of room to run.

Because the breed is somewhat fearless around other dogs, it is important to introduce a Miniature Schnauzer to other dogs while still a puppy.

Miniature Schnauzers are sociable dogs that love to be with their people. Their deepest need is to be fully included in family activities, whether those activities center on watching television or going out for a run.

Because they do not shed, these dogs are ideal for people who are allergic to other breeds. However, they need to be groomed regularly; frequent brushing, hair and nail trimming, and periodic clipping and stripping are necessary.

Miniature Schnauzers age gracefully; they do not show signs of age until late in life. The average life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.