Schnauzer Miniatures 101

Terrier group

Bright-eyed and bewhiskered, the Miniature Schnauzer is an active dog, a devoted family member, and an alert watchdog. They carry themselves with pride and love to make an entrance.

Mini Schnauzers are extremely smart and quick to learn things. Early manners training work bests with them, including when it comes to minimizing barking. They’re generally good with other family pets, although they can take umbrage at dogs they do not know.

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No one's ever sneaking up on these alert dogs

They are adaptable to most any situation and any kind of family. They do need regular exercise of their athletic body and sharp mind, or they may find michievious ways to amuse themselves. Their wiry coat requires professional grooming and is usually kept clipped short for ease of maintenance.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
12 to 14 inches tall
Group Size Small
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
020
Weight
11 to 20 lbs
0150

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Mature adult Schnauzer Miniature

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Urinary bladder stones

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Diabetes mellitus

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Pancreatitis

Senior Schnauzer Miniature

9+ years

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Diabetes mellitus

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Urinary bladder stones

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Schnauzer Miniature puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Ear infection

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Gastritis

Young adult Schnauzer Miniature

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis

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Urinary bladder stones

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Toxicity

Mature adult Schnauzer Miniature

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Urinary bladder stones

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Diabetes mellitus

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Pancreatitis

Senior Schnauzer Miniature

9+ years

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Diabetes mellitus

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Urinary bladder stones

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Gallbladder disease

Schnauzer Miniature puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Toxicity

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Ear infection

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Gastritis

Young adult Schnauzer Miniature

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer Miniature conditions

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Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis

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Urinary bladder stones

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Toxicity

schnauzer GettyImages-505970958

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3-Fun fact Minature schnauzer GettyImages-1160833953

"Felix" was the Miniature Schnauzer of German-American photographer Man Ray. Felix became a muse for Man Ray's iconic surrealistic photographs in the early 20th century. The images captured Felix's unique personality and expressive face, turning him into a notable figure in the art world.

Schnauzer Miniature coat care and colors

Schnauzers of different sizes had different jobs, but all have wiry coats like small Terriers. Show-bound Schnauzers have their dead fur plucked (or "stripped") by hand. The task is time-consuming and not at all easy, which is why most Schnauzers are kept clipped short. Between spa visits, all that’s needed is occasional brushing to keep the coat in good shape. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.

Do Schnauzers shed a lot?

All dogs shed, some a little and some a lot. The wire-haired coat of the Miniature Schnauzer doesn't shed much, and much of what does shed stays in the coat until brushed or combed out. Most Miniature Schnauzers are kept clipped, which reduces shedding and makes coat maintenance easy --- just weekly brushing baths between grooming as needed. Your Schnauzer may need occasional bathing of their beard, which tends to pick up muck.

What is the best way to maintain the distinctive appearance of a Schnauzer's coat?

Show-ring Miniature Schnauzers are "hand stripped," a time-consuming grooming skill that's not very practical for pet Schnauzers. Regular clipping that preserves the distinctive beard and eyebrows of the Miniature Schnauzer will keep the best of the "look," without the effort of a show-ring grooming.

Can I trim my Schnauzer's hair myself?

Yes, you can. While most people find it easier -- not to mention prettier -- to have a professional keep their Miniature Schnauzer clipped, it's certainly possible to teach yourself. YouTube has grooming tutorials that go over what you tools you need and how to clip your Schnauzer safely.

Schnauzer Miniature exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

As with other terrier-type dogs, the Miniature Schnauzer loves to go and doesn’t want to be left out of family activities. Brisk walks along with indoor play and games will keep them happy.

Class clown

Trainability

Behind those shoe-button eyes and bewhiskered muzzle is a smart, engaging and sometimes stubborn little dog. Encourage good behavior with praise and tiny treats.

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Schnauzer Miniature fun facts

Top girl names for Schnauzer Miniatures

100%

of Schnauzer Miniatures are female

0%

of Schnauzer Miniatures are male

Top boy names for Schnauzer Miniatures

Nationwide loves Schnauzer Miniatures of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Schnauzer Miniatures

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