Breed Description

Coat
The Miniature Schnauzer has a hard and wiry outer coat, while the undercoat is close and dense. This breed has a distinctive beard and should always have longer hair on the chest, underbelly, and legs. The coat of this breed should be plucked to remove dead hair.

Overview
The Miniature Schnauzer is a cross between the Standard Schnauzer, the Affenpinscher, and it is said the Poodle is a possibility. They were bred to retain the same look and characteristics of the Standard Schnauzer, but being of a more manageable size. This breed originated in Germany, named after the German word for muzzle, "schnauze." The Miniature Schnauzer does very well in killing rats which is what he was commonly used for, and does well in hunting, tracking, competitive obedience, and performing tricks which he is known for.

Character
The Miniature Schnauzer is generally well mannered and very obedient making him a great student. A very perky breed, they do not do well in kennel life and should always be kept as a companion. This breed loves to be around his owner and does best in a family environment. The Miniature Schnauzer makes a wonderful alarm dog, barking at the sight or sound of something odd or treading onto his territory. This breed is very active, but does not require as much exercise as the Standard variety.

Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer can have troubles with other dogs, however if properly trained and socialized; this breed can do all right. This breed should be supervised around small children, and does best with older children and more respectable children. The Schnauzer can be combative with other dogs, however if raised with them this breed can do well. They are not recommended for a home with smaller animals such as the cat as they have the tendency to chase them.

Care
The Miniature Schnauzer should be brushed regularly to prevent matting or tangling, however is fairly easy to comb through. This breed should be clipped professionally twice a year, however is not required if brushed regularly. Professional plucking is required on the coat of this breed. The coat of this breed, while it can still become tangled and/or matted, has a fairly tangle resistant coat. The Miniature Schnauzer sheds little to no hair making him ideal for a family with allergies.

Training
The Miniature Schnauzer is naturally well mannered and obedient, however needs training. They can be very demanding and if left alone, they can become somewhat of a tyrant. Consistency and a firm yet gentle hand is required. A variety of training methods work best with this breed. Obedience training must be started at an early age as they have the tendency to be stubborn. The Miniature Schnauzer is very eager to learn and is fairly easy to housebreak if the right techniques are used.

Activity
The Miniature Schnauzer is very lively and energetic, however gets quite a bit of exercise indoors. This breed does love long walks and regular romps though and would do beautifully with an average sized yard. This breed makes an excellent jogging companion for an owner that loves the outdoors. The Miniature Schnauzer requires extensive stimulation as they have the tendency to become noisy and destructive if left along for long periods of time.