Miniature Schnauzer Wendy Barnhart Size: 12 - 14 inches high Weight: 13 - 15 pounds Color: Silver-grey to black Origin: Bavaria Historic Purpose: Carriage dog; stable watchdog Modern Purpose: Dedicated watchdog and mouser Photo: This is Wendy Barnhart's Miniature Schnauzer "Sebastian" (seen here with his summer haircut!)

The Miniature Schnauzer is a smaller version of the Standard and Giant Schnauzers though it is believed that the Miniature Schnauzer also carries the blood of the affenpinscher and the poodle. Both males and females are 12 to 14 inches in height and generally weigh 13 to 15 pounds (though Sebastian is a muscular 19 pounds). Their coats are attractive and have a wiry outer layer with a soft, silky layer underneath. Coat color can vary from a silver-gray to completely black and it is not unusual to have white legs and paws with white eyebrows on a silver-gray subject. Their eyes are oval in shape and dark and the neck is long and arched. The Miniature Schnauzer's tail is docked at the third vertebrae, and their ears are often cropped to a point. Sebastian, however, was spared this latter bit of cosmetic surgery. The Miniature Schnauzer also has a strong muzzle that is rather square and bearded when groomed. They have prominent eyebrows that, combined with their characteristic head shape, gives them a handsome appearance.

The personality of the Miniature Schnauzer is very affectionate, devoted, and bold. They are energetic and hearty dogs and will defend you and their territory from all varieties of "danger." Sebastian's favorite activity is to sit on my lap and paw at my hands so I will keep petting him. However, at the first sign of trouble, he quickly gives up this cherished spot in order to defend the family and the property. Miniature Schnauzers are also excellent mousers (they were used as "ratters" many years ago) and you can rest assured that your home will be rodent-free should you choose to share it with a Miniature Schnauzer. These dogs are well-suited to apartment living and they are very good with children. They will patiently tolerate pats and tugs from a small child, even if those tugs are a bit more rough than is to the dog's liking. Miniature Schnauzers are also intelligent and easily trainable.

The breed originated in Bavaria and their name comes from the German word "schnauze" which means snout or muzzle. Miniature Schnauzers were originally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1899 and the American Miniature Schnauzer Club was chartered in 1933. However, there is evidence that schnauzers have been around much longer and they have even been depicted in some fifteenth century artwork. Originally used as carriage dogs and stable watchdogs, their ability and skill as a watchdog is still valued today.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a sturdy breed and will usually live for quite a long time. Middle age for the Miniature Schnauzer is considered to be around nine to 11 years of age. They are also clean dogs and will wash their faces with a wet paw when needed. Another favorite trait is their lack of doggy smell and a coat that is not prone to excessive shedding.

Miniature Schnauzer's can be very vocal dogs and have a wide vocabulary of "words" used to communicate with others. Their voice can carry as much weight as a larger dog, and they are highly capable of commanding attention when they want it or need it (which is often the same moment). They can bark at various pitches, and also squeal, howl, growl, gurgle, and grunt. During an especially long conversation (on his part), it is difficult to keep from laughing at his very serious communication. Thankfully, the Miniature Schnauzer can easily be trained to refrain from barking excessively.

Miniature Schnauzer's are excellent companions and friends. If you are interested in providing a home for one of this hearty and affectionate breed, consider contacting a local breeder. Miniature Schnauzer breeders have been selective in their choice of breeding stock throughout the years so the breed has maintained a high level of quality. You may also consider contacting a Miniature Schnauzer rescue service if there is one in your area or nearby. Many excellent dogs can be adopted from a rescue service or the local humane society. Sebastian is a wonderful dog and he was adopted from the humane society in my area. Many humane society groups will often put you on a list if you are looking for a specific breed of dog so that you will be contacted should one arrive at their shelter. This is a great way to find what you are looking for in a dog, and provide a home for a pup who is lost or unwanted.

Related Reading:
Guide to Owning a Miniature Schnauzer, by Anton Janish
The New Miniature Schnauzer by Dan Kiedrowsk
Book of the Miniature Schnauzer by Anna K. Nichola
Your Miniature Schnauzer by Mildred L. Doud

Wendy M. Barnhart
ydnewmarie@aol.com
or wmbarnhart@earthlink.net
Copyright 1996. All rights reserved.