The Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly, social breed. They can suit city or country living, and do best with plenty of daily exercise and training. A distinctive busy beard and soulful eyes stand them apart from a lot of other popular breeds, but I’ve also found them to be incredibly devoted companions. Their coat doesn’t shed hugely, but does benefit from grooming and clipping. Positive training and a great recall command are essential for these headstrong dogs as they have a high prey drive.
Contents
- Miniature Schnauzer appearance
- Do they make good family pets?
- Training, exercise and health
- Miniature Schnauzer puppies
Original Purpose
Miniature Schnauzers come from Germany. They are an old breed that are recognized in pictures from the 15th century. There, Standard Schnauzers were bred with smaller dogs, such as the miniature poodle and the Affenpinscher. The aim was to create a farm dog that could hunt rats, and they did a great job. But they also proved to be great pets and companions.
The first recorded Miniature Schnauzer appeared in 1888. But it was shown as a distinct breed from 1899. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1926.
Miniature Schnauzer Appearance
Miniature Schnauzers are 12-14 inches in height. They range in weight from 11-20 lbs. They have a long foreface and a strong muzzle, with thick whiskers. Their bodies are short and squat. They have small, dark, deep-set brown eyes.
The is breed has a double coat. They have a hard, wiry outer layer and a softer undercoat. They can be black, salt and pepper, or black and silver in color. White Miniature Schnauzers exist too. But they are not recognized by some breed associations.
Shedding and Grooming
Miniature Schnauzers need daily grooming because of their double coat. Stripping is done for show-quality dogs. This requires removing loose, dead hairs by hand or with a stripping knife. Clipping, a less time-consuming process, is usually done for house pets. Clipping is done with a shaver to remove the topcoat and reveal the softer hair underneath.
Without regular grooming, Schnauzer hair can become easily tangled and matted.
Are They Hypoallergenic?
Dog allergies are caused by a protein in dog saliva and urine, which adheres to fur. Some breeds don’t release as much fur. So those breeds are often called hypoallergenic. But the protein still exists in the dog’s hair and dander. Allergic people may suffer less when exposed to certain dogs, but there are no guarantees.
Temperament Traits
These super-cute pups are friendly, smart, alert, and active. They have spirit!
Lively pups, they have a medium amount of energy. But can be happy living in many areas. And if well exercised during the day will still be a bit of a lap dog in the evenings. They are also eager to please, which makes them obedient. Although these little cuties can also be stubborn.
Miniature Schnauzers are curious and use their intelligence to get into trouble! Because they were bred as ratters, they are spunky and fast. They have big personalities! As terriers, they dig, chase, and think they’re bigger than they are.
Miniature Schnauzers are also vocal. They like to bark, but this means they make good watchdogs.
Training and Exercise
Training is a good idea for Miniature Schnauzers. They need to exercise their minds. These dogs are food-motivated. Keep training sessions short, as Miniature Schnauzers can be bored by repetition.
Once your dog starts to obey you, try to curb any barking. You won’t be able to stop it completely, but you may be able to reduce it. Lively Miniature Schnauzers may enjoy the challenge of agility training, too.
Miniature Schnauzers are smaller dogs. But this doesn’t mean they don’t need exercise. Exercise is important to maintain both mental and physical health. Especially in these clever, active dogs!
Miniature Schnauzer Health
Schnauzers are prone to allergies. These often show up on the skin, as itchiness from contact dermatitis. They may also cause digestive issues.
There’s also a skin condition called comedones syndrome that is so common on Miniature Schnauzers that it’s also known as “Schnauzer Bumps.” These bumps are not harmful or contagious unless they get infected. If that happens, go to your vet for antibiotics.
Bleeding disorders, eye and heart conditions and epilespy are also problems they can be prone to, but many of these have health tests available.
Your Miniature Schnauzer can, if healthy, live 12-15 years. Lifespan depends on her own health and environment, genetic predispositions to illnesses like those listed above, and quality of life. Some dogs will not live as long, because of physical issues. Others may live longer, with good care.
Miniature Schnauzer Puppies
Breeders of Miniature Schnauzers can be found all over. You can get a referral from the American Miniature Schnauzer Club. Know if you’re looking for a pedigreed, show-quality animal, or just a healthy one for a family pet.
Research your breeder. You want to know that the breeder is ethical and responsible. So if you can visit the site, do that. This lets you see for yourself how your potential pet lives. Ask questions about health history and get documentation before you commit to a purchase.
Where to Avoid
Make sure to avoid puppy mills. These breeders just breed with money in mind rather than to create healthy happy dogs.
These pups are usually cheaper, but they have a worse quality of life.
As do the parent dogs, who are often just seen as a means to an end.
Pet stores often buy puppies from puppy mills. So make sure to also avoid pet store when buying your Mini Schnauzer.
Miniature Schnauzer puppies are the cutest things on the planet. But don’t let their sweetness blind you! No matter how cute the puppy looks, you still need to research the breeder and the dog’s lineage. Given the potential health risks, it may save you money and heartache down the line.
Wanda says
I had a Schnoodles and Poodle mix she passed a week ago. She was 13 yrs old. But before her passing I had many health problems with her heart problems, liver, gall bladder, shrinking of her breathing tube in her neck, hip problems, skin problems, fungus problems, problems with her ears getting infected, digestion problems, crushing problems. kidney problems. She was really sick. I have been doing research on the Schnoodle’s breed. The problems she had were on both sides of the breeds she was mixed with. I loved her so much and but had no idea these problems could occur in this breed. The problems appeared starting to appear age 7 to 13 mostly being the 13 years age. If anyone has had a Schnoodles please let me know. My husband is wanting to get another one. I personally are not fond of this idea. The breeder he is looking at is in Virginia and swears her dogs are very healthy and has had DNA testing on them. I have read that DNA testing is not enough testing and does not tell the whole story on what this dog problems can be. Her prices range from $3,500.00 to more on her puppies. If anyone out there can tell me can I ask her for her DNA testing results and the name of her vet? And if you have had a Schnoodles and had problems with yours I would like to know what kind.
Layton says
My wife and I are in desperate need of advice. We have a 13-year schnauzer that has been a joy to own until about 18 months ago. Now he paces continually, wakes us up at sunrise, no naps. My wife is a heart patient and needs her rest and is not getting it. Oliver also use to ride in a car quietly, but now barks continually and jumps around in the car. Food is the main event – all the time. He is not overweight because of his diet, but you would think he is starving all the time. Three Vet’s have recommended that he be euthanized, but we can hardly stand the thought – and yet we have tried everything we know. We have had Oliver to several vets, tried several treatments. If you have any suggestions, or have experienced any similar things please let me know,.
Marcus says
Still have a wonderful MS who has just turned 14 years. We live in a city and we have trained her to walk without a leash with us. Took some patience, lots of love and most importantly only positive stimulation. A little snack everytime she stopped at the curb, sat on command or returned when called. Great little dog we can take with us wherever we go. Healthwise she has (allergic) skin issues. We have taken to grainless foods but sometimes she still has itch attacks where overnight she will chew two bald patches. Antihystamine injections at vet always work. Now she is getting old she has catharac which means in the dark-dusk she has to go on the leash as she loses us. Also seems to be ‘lost in thought’ often and forgets surroundings and has fatty lumps on chest and hips. Can still run around and lark when she meets a goodlooking wirehaired Dachshund. Has always been a lovely dog with our kids when they were very small. Very family oriented and cuddly.
Debby Mitchell says
Pepper is my 2nd miniature schnauzer, she just turned 1 this past January, she is a liver/pepper. My 1st miniature schnauzer Belle,who was salt/pepper,crossed the rainbow bridge, 2 years ago , this coming June. She was diagnosed with lymphoma. My heart was broken. Both my girls are and always will be “mommas babies”. They truly are a wonderful breed.
Lorraine Cangin says
Our newest schnauzer, Henry, is 3 mos. old.. He is our 5th schnauzer. After our last schnauzer passed from a liver tumor that burst. (Remy was only 10 yrs old) we thought we would never have another dog, it just hurt too much to lose him. But then, after a year, we began to want another fuzzy face. So then came Henry. It’s true that getting a dog may be one of the happiest days of your life and losing one is probably one of the saddest! But, once you own a schnauzer you will probably always have one. All we can do is be happy while they are here and know that we have given them the best life we could. God bless all dogs and dog lovers.
Sue says
I couldn’t agree more! They are the best!! Such great personalities. I lost my 1st schnauzer from cancer….tumor on his liver. He was the best little guy…close to perfect as you could get. It’s been 7 long years since I had to let him go…still hurts….hardest thing I ever had to do. Just like you said…the happiest day when you get a fur baby & the saddest day when you lose them! I have 2 now & I love them dearly but my 1st one will always hold the most special place in my heart.
Jason says
Bonnie was my first MS and lived to 17 and was healthy her whole life except for cataracts at around 16. Stormie was my second and only made 10 years old due to G I lymphoma. Both were wonderful doggies. Bonnie was raised by a 75 lb put bull named Chopper who made 15 yrs. Stormie spent her 10 years traveling 48 + Canada in a big truck…..Now I have Mystie who is 3 in May. What a character! I hope she outlives me cannot go thru the heartbreak again.All being black+ silver females 14, 12,+ 18 lbs respectively. Do alot of research on your breeder, due to relatively high cost of breed many are only looking to turn a fast buck or adopt and rescue. Also do alot of research on pet food and use top quality like Orijen, Arcana, Fromme.
Lynda says
I grew up with mini schnauzers. We had one that lived to be 18. Just bought my last one in December 2017 for my husband. Then my husband passed a month ago. I feel so bad for little Duece. But he has finally stopped whimpering constantly and now sticks close to me. Wonderful, smart amazing dogs.
Peggy clark says
How do you go about checking out the breeder!Iam about to pay 500 for a miniture snouzer!
Meg Austwick says
Hi Peggy, we have a guide with 11 Key Questions to Ask When Phoning a Breeder that you may find useful!
Kumud Altmayer says
We already had two Miniature Schnauzers. one lived till 14a male. The other one has just left. She was turning 12 this Feb. 8, 2019. I lost her on Jan. 3rd late night/Jan. r 4rth early morning with heart and kidney/renal failure. She was so cue. Both were great. I a thinking one more and know well how to handle and take care of little pet doggy miniature Schnauzer. I miss very badly. I have also my spouse who was in military. It would be great t have one more Schnauzer and I love this breed. they are great companion and intelligent, obedient.
Yvonne Reekie says
We have 3 miniature schnauzers. 1 was never going to be enough. They are extremely intelligent, gorgeous to look at and fairly obedient. They have their moments. I told my husband (as I have had dogs before) they will settle at 3 then 4 then 5. Not a chance at 10 (2 of them) they are still fiesty and headstrong but just the way we love them. My younger one is 8 and she is such a good dog. Fiesty but very loving and obedient (sometimes). All are great with children and other dogs. My next dog will defo be another MS
Nancy Dimeola says
I had my Minature Schnauzer for 18 the 1 /2 yrs. Best dog ever. I would not get another as NO OTHER would replace her. She was Black and White
Super intelligent. Extremely Loveable
Jeff says
My family have had 3 miniature schnauzers which we rescued at an older age (around 4 years old). We recently purchased our first MS pup “Louie”. Great, loving pup. He’s now 3 months old and, again he’s our first pup, noticed he gets a bit aggressive in the evenings and when picked up. Is this common?
Keener says
We have a white MS that will be 15 in April 2019. He has had bladder stones, has liver issues, has had pancreatitis, cushings disease, now Addisons (sp? ) disease, IBD, UTI’S, and lumps and bumps. In the past 6 months now we have been dealing with boughts of vomiting/diarrhea with multiple vet trips. He is being held together with meds and proper diet right now which is day to day. Vomiting is under control but the poop can swing from firm to soft daily. We have over 15,000 in vet bills in the last few years from emergency hospital stays and surgery. Unfortunately, he had had pretty much everything possible a MS is known to get. With all that said, we love this dog and would do anything to keep him comfortable (which he is) to live out his life. We don’t have any human children. My point is, they can be expensive if your pooch gets all the issues like ours but he’s such a good little guy with a very Strong personality that makes us laugh because we seem to work for him! Love MS’s!
Lee Underwood says
My name is Lee, I have had two males before Gracie, I was single and met my wife through a Schnauzer breader as we had both recently lost our Schnauzers, Claudia had two before we met as well. Gracie is the reason we met and we worship the ground she walks on. They are all scary smart and if loved and played with they are a blast, we have a very large house and play sneak up and goose the other person, she can beat me easily but sometimes lets me win, I will peak around a corner to sneak up on her and she learned to peek around the corner to sneak up on me. She will hide when I get close and bust out of hidding to goose me and run. One word of caution, once you get your first Schnauzer you will get another one, we have talked to so many Schnauzer owners that will neve get another bread and we agree. Schnauzers for lifers as we call ourselves. These little dogs are actually a human brain trapped in a cute, sweet, cuddly dogs body. All of our dogs have been really scary smart, so scary smart that they amaze you every single day, they like to be large and in charge and will absolutely go out of their way to make you smile. Tough as nails and are no means wimpy. Best cuddlers on the planet that will never not want to be without you unless they are stalking you to goose and run.
Janice says
My mini schnauzer is a mix with a rat terrier. Daisy Mae looks exactly like a mini schnauzer except for her blond color. She is my Service Animal, so we are always together. Before I retired, she came to work with me. We go to church, dine out, go grocery shopping together – her favorite outing is the library. I just say “library” and she’s at the door! Her BFF is a great guy who works there and will inherit her if she outlives me. I have had many dogs in my life, but I never had such a loving and smart dog as my Daisy Mae. At 8 years old, she hasn’t slowed down at all. When she has her uniform on, she knows she’s working and behaves beautifully, but when we get home and take off her uniform, she’s still just a playful puppy. I call her “Crazy Daisy!” She has never nipped or growled at anyone, but she is an awesome watch dog and will bark at unrecognized sounds, which is great for an old lady who lives alone on 6 acres in the middle of nowhere! I would recommend a mini schnauzer to anyone, and if you are lucky enough to find a good mix, all the better.
Steve S. says
We are now living with our second female Miniature Schnauzer Ebi Lou. She will turn 12 this October 30, 2018. She has been a smart, sweet, intelligent, spunky joy in our family. Recently, her whole routine changed dramatically. She stopped eating 1st thing, is resting more. We took her to the vet for her 2nd Bortadela shot and to discuss the changes, and she’s 100% healthy. She’s just decided to take it a little easier, at this stage. Our previous Miniature Schnauzer, Mims, was with us for 14 wonderful years. We love our Miniature Schnauzers. They are wonderful, enjoyable family members!
Gali says
My Galliana was a party color mini schnauzer that passed away about 2 years ago of some type of kidney disease. She was 13 years old. She was the most amazing little buddy. She followed me everywhere and lay beside me on the couch when watching tv. Always had to be near me. She was extremely sweet and amazingly intelligent. We trained her to do agility courses and she was very good at it. As others have mentioned, horrible on a leash. She would charge after any dog she saw and ring her own neck when the leash reached its limit. We switched to a harness for connecting the leash to keep her from damaging her neck. They do tend to be a little yappy though. I miss her terribly. I recently got another party color mini schnauzer named Ellemae. They are great dogs. I highly recommend the breed.
Joy savarese says
We have a white one he is only 5 years old He is just as sweet, gentle and understanding. He was bought for our grand kids . Our sweet Bolt was bought at an breeder. When Bolt was just a couple months old wefound out he was full of all the type of worms The vet did not expect him to make it . But he did. We had several emergencies with him He had got a holded of a rib bone and it ldge n this throat. . Then he was posion . At our fence in yard. Or he has lmHA he had a low blood count and found out he has a heart murmur. He had to have a blood transfusion and believe not make it but with lots love and care sofar he has been around 4 months past what we were told. This is one tough dog He is also my therapy dog.
Lynn says
I have a Black Mini Schnauzer who just turned 6. We are so attached to each other. She had one bladder infection 2-3 summers ago but no other health issues thus far. She gets anxious around children or around a lot of activity such as family gatherings, but I attribute that to her daily quiet surroundings, just the 2 of us. I would get another Mini in a heartbeat. She’s loyal, protective, playful, fun and a snuggler. I hope she stays healthy for a long time to come!
Claire says
HANDS DOWN BEST BREED EVER.
IVE HAD 6 OLDEST JUST PASSED AT 17…ELLA WAS THE LOVLIEST SOUL. I WAS LUCKY DID NOT EXPERIENCE ANY MAJOR ILLNESSES..
THEY ARE LOVING, LOYAL, FUNNY, BIG DOG IN LITTLE DOG SUIT, ENJOY PEOPLE AND OTHER DOGS. JUST NEED TO SHARE WITH THEM YOUR THE BOSS..LOL
YOU WILL LOVE.
Stephanie says
We have a chocolate schnauzer named Hershey . He fits right in with the 8 & 2 yr old , he loves them very much and is so protective over them both . I love watching him and the 2 yr old play , it is so cute and funny . He is a barker though and is terrible on his leash as well. He is also very very stubborn . Lol
He is only 1 yr old so haven’t dealt with any health problems so far only some skin flaking ( due to wrong shampoo being used . I think . He is such a good boy . I couldn’t of picked a better dog to fit into our family .
Janice says
I had problems with my Daisy Mae on the leash, too. At only 15 pounds, she can drag me down the street. I tried a lot of different collars and methods until I discovered The Gentle Leader. IT WORKS!
Thomas says
I have had several I just had to put one down she was only 6 she had kidney disease and a heart murmur she had the best personality of any I had she was not a barker neither was the one previous I would not have any other breed they are the best!!
Brian golding says
Would like to know when female minis should be first bred
Joyce Pool says
I have a miniature Schnauzer, she is salt and pepper, 6 month old. My granddaughter breed s these dogs, she gave my little dog.
I love this dog so much. She has changed my life so much . I feel bad to know that these dogs are so pron to these deases.
Thank you for this information.
Tom says
I had two one was 2 years old I had to put her down because of infection and an other was 6 years old she had kidney failure I highly recommend insurance healthy paws is a good company to look at but they are the best I miss her every day
Claire says
Just to let you know I have had 6 mini Schnauzers. My most recent pasted at 17, previously 161/2….then 13 and on and on. I was truly blessed. Just first love them like they will love you, feed well, regular exercise and vet checks and lots of exercise and socialization. Do this and you will have the Best Breed in the world for a long time.
MS have been the most wonderful blessings in my life!!!
Cyndi says
Good article with great information on miniature schnauzers. I recently had to put down the first schnauzer I owned. Her name was Heidi and she developed congestive heart failure and then a month later was found with a large tumor on her spleen that burst. With the heart condition and her being 13 years old, it was almost certain she would not survive the surgery. We had to make the decision to put her down. My husband and I miss her very much! She suffered with allergies and infections from time to time in her ears because of the allergies. She also had the little bumps. She was very smart and very sweet. Love the fact that schnauzer don’t really shed. I also have an 11 year old male schnauzer that is blind from having diabetes. He was a rescue 4 1/2 years ago. He is also very sweet and gets around well with his limited eye sight. He doesn’t seem to have allergies but has teeth problems. Just happy he’s doing so well since his diagnosis of diabetes 3 1/2 years ago. My vet says that schnauzer are prone to diabetes. While having a dog with it means testing, special diets and shots, it is possible to get a routine down and have a happy healthy dog. While I’ve had several different breeds over the years, I have to say the miniature schnauzer is my favorite.
Ayo says
I have owned a schnauzer for 3 years they are very alert dogs and hate to get bored. I love them they are very smart on anything that moves faster then them brave lil dogs. By them being brave it can hurt them so u have to be careful of them running up on other animals…
Chuck says
Our White Male is 13 years old and minus the “bumps” has not had any of the scary health issues mentioned. Color us lucky. He is getting slower and grumpier, but still bounces around from time to time. Thinking about a regular color one down the road as this pup was saved from our daughters military travels, basically we took him in when they had to move. Will check shelters and other research before deciding. Easy to groom after a little practice!
Steve Miller says
We just had to put our Shitzu to sleep and decided to purchase another dog right away to ease the pain of our loss, someone in our area had miniature Schnauzers for sale in our area and we purchased a little male without doing the research.. now I’m extremely worried about potential health issues..
Samantha Seaba says
I’ve raised and trained 8 miniature Schnauzers over the last 10 years from 4 different breeders and the only medical issues I’ve had was one got cancer and died after 9 years of love, and one had a genetic teeth issue and had to have 27 of his 42 teeth removed. But other than those 2 the rest have been fully healthy.
Lisa B says
We rescued our mini-schnauzer 6 months ago. She is about 2 1/2 now. She is VERY smart and VERY loving and sweet. She can be trying at times. We did a basic training class with her, and she did great except for walking on a leash. She is HORRIBLE on the leash. We are getting some additional one-on-one training for the leash issue, and have high hopes of success. This article was great! I really appreciate all of the information. I think it’s a good idea to have pet insurance for this breed to help with any financial issues that can arise due to possible health problems. So far I LOVE this breed. Thanks again for the info!
Sean says
My white schnauzer was named Krypto. He was the best dog ever. Krypto had the usual schnauzer bumps, including some larger cysts, one which burst. We ran into bladder stones early on, and switched foods to reduce their occurrence. We ended up going through 2 surgeries to remove them from the bladder, and later a urethrae redirect operation to increase ability to pass these stones. Spendy. 4 years ago they started detecting a heart murmur, but we did not focus on its existence till 2 years later. He started passing out when getting excited. We did a full cardio workup on him, and we then began a regiment of heart medicines. He lasted another 16 months, and we had to put him down 3 weeks ago. We are extremely sad, and miss him so.
I think the schnauzers are great pets, as long as you have the money to support their health. I’ve had two schnauzers. The other one, Ruby, a black schnauzer, went through bladder stone surgery as well.
Karen says
May I ask how old your Krypto was when you had to make that VERY difficult decision? My sister has a white Schnauzer and her vet said the life expectancy for white ones was much lower than others coat colors? He has her scared because he said her 7 year old was actually older than most?
I don’t use the same vet, so I tried to find anything online to confirm, but haven’t found anything. He may know this just gotten from personal experience over the years? But, her “Schnick” isn’t eating and she said he “seems to be going down at a rapid rate”! Health wise he’s dealt with the regular “Schnauzer bumps”, but he hasn’t endured the issues your sweet one went through!!
So, I’m VERY sorry for the timing of this question, and I am so very sorry for your loss! I’m currently dealing with the same “decision” with my 15 year old toy poodle, and have had to make that terrible choice for the many other fur babies I’ve had in my 43 years!
I ONLY ask as I’m trying to find anything positive to tell her!
Cathy says
We have a white mini Schnauzer going on 12 years that still acts like a puppy. He has the bumps but is otherwise very healthy. If we don’t have time for a walk he will get one of his toys and attack and chase it around the house, he’s very fit. One recommendation is to feed your dog high protein grain free dog food. It’s a bit more expensive, but well worth it to keep them healthy.
Laura says
This article is very accurate to our experience. Our dog had bladder stones at age 2 and required surgery. She is on a special diet and is doing well. She is stubborn, has a strong chase instinct and barks territorially. She is very friendly to strangers but less so to other dogs. I love our dog, but would try a different breed for the next dog. One that’s calmer.
Grace says
I have had 2 miniature Schnauzers. Both had to be put to sleep at around 16 years. I am a real Schnauzer lover and I would give anything to get another one.
Janet says
I have had four schnauzer s in the past thirty years. My newest little girl is a black and white Parti. My understanding was this coloring was the original from Germany. I got her at Moore’s Puppy’s. She is in Ca. Can find her on internet. Good luck .
Jason says
Bonnie was my first MS and lived to 17 and was healthy her whole life except for cataracts at around 16. Stormie was my second and only made 10 years old due to G I lymphoma. Both were wonderful doggies. Bonnie was raised by a 75 lb put bull named Chopper who made 15 yrs. Stormie spent her 10 years traveling 48 + Canada in a big truck…..Now I have Mystie who is 3 in May. What a character! I hope she outlives me cannot go thru the heartbreak again.All being black+ silver females 14, 12,+ 18 lbs respectively. Do alot of research on your breeder, due to relatively high cost of breed many are only looking to turn a fast buck or adopt and rescue. Also do alot of research on pet food and use top quality like Orijen, Arcana, Fromme.
Annette Ossenkop says
great article, lots of information, things that I’ve experienced as having 4 over a 25 yr period but learned a little more… thanks!