24" dog crate
Right-sized for a small dog, cozy not cramped.
View pick
Miniature Schnauzer
A bearded, spirited little watchdog.
Terrier group
Germany
Small
Lifespan12-15 yr
Weight5-9 kg
Height30-36 cm
OriginGermany
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small terrier with a wiry coat, bushy beard and lively, friendly nature. Smart and low-shedding, it is a popular family dog and an alert little watchdog.
Great points
- Low-shedding, allergy-friendlier coat
- Smart and trainable
- Friendly and spirited
- Great family watchdog
Things to consider
- Coat needs regular grooming
- Barky and alert
- Strong prey drive
- Can be stubborn
The story
Bred in Germany as a small farm ratter and watchdog from larger Schnauzers, the Miniature Schnauzer combined terrier grit with a friendly temperament. It became one of the most popular terriers worldwide.
Training
Minis are clever and eager and respond well to positive training, though the terrier streak means consistency helps, and barking is best managed early.
Grooming
The wiry coat sheds little but needs regular brushing and clipping or hand-stripping every few weeks, plus beard cleaning.
Food & diet
About 0.5 to 1 cup of quality small-breed food a day, split into two meals.
Exercise
Moderate. Daily walks plus play and training satisfy this active little terrier.
Health to watch
Prone to pancreatitis, high blood fats, bladder stones and some eye issues. A careful diet helps.
Fun fact. The Schnauzer's beard was originally functional, protecting the muzzle while the dog hunted vermin.
Frequently asked questions
Do Miniature Schnauzers shed?
Very little. The wiry coat is low-shedding and often suits allergy sufferers, but it needs regular grooming and trimming.
Are Miniature Schnauzers good family dogs?
Yes. They are friendly, smart and sturdy, which makes them a great family companion and a lively little watchdog.
Do Miniature Schnauzers bark a lot?
They can. As alert watchdogs they bark at noises and visitors, so early training helps keep it in check.
Essential gear for the Miniature Schnauzer
A few breed-right basics for a new Miniature Schnauzer.
Small orthopedic bed
Joint support, sized to a small frame.
View pickSlicker brush
Keeps a low-shed coat tidy.
View pickSmall-breed formula
Right kibble size and calories.
View pickThese are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend.
