Calling All Miniature Schnauzers!

The Mini Schnauzer: A Loyal and Loving Friend

​Miniature Schnauzers are fun and loving dogs. Marley, my Mini, was seven years-old when he came into my life. He had a lot of energy, so much that his previous owners used to call him the "Forever Puppy." He would keep going on and going on. Marley loved to play, socialize and "doggie" talk.

I was always impressed by Marley’s personality. He was a true Mini through and through: loyal, obedient and motivated. And very easy to train too.

A Little Bit About Mini Schnauzers

Minis are the smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds. They grow to 12-14 inches in height and weigh between 11-20 pounds. Their life expectancy of 12-15 years.  

Miniature Schnauzer have a coat that does not shed. Many people consider them a hypoallergenic dog. Their coat has a hard wiry texture that comes in three different color patterns: 

• salt and pepper
• black and silver
• solid black. 

I have also seen white ones, but I don’t think they're recognized by the AKC.

The Mini-ful History

​The history of the Miniature Schnauzer is a quick one. They come from the Standard Schnauzer who was one of Europe ‘s supreme all-around farm dogs. German farmers bred the Standard down to Miniature size. This way they could work as barnyard ratters.  

The dog breeds used to produce the Schnauzer the were Affenpinscher and Poodle. This explains why their behavior is quite different from other Terriers. Miniature Schnauzers are very friendly, spirited and obedient. Terriers can be independent or have a fiery temper.

By 1899, Miniature Schnauzers were a distinct breed.

Grooming Miniature Schnauzers

On the grooming table, I must admit, they are very well behaved. They're clipped with a standard haircut as shown below: ​

When grooming, we strip down the Miniature Schnauzer to be on the show ring. This encourages the dog's natural coat texture and color. A stripped coat is harder, dirt- and water-repellent. It also does not mat up easy.

Rescue a Mini Into Your Loving Arms

As I always do, I encourage my friends and clients to consider rescuing a dog before buying a puppy. You can find at PetFinder.com the following rescues:

• Schnauzers and Fox Terrier Rescue League 
• Schnauzer Love Rescue, Inc.  
• Schnauzer Rescue Florida