The Miniature Schnauzer, also know as
Zwergschnauzer is a breed of small dog of the Schnauzer type that originated in Germany in the mid-to-late 19th century. Miniature Schnauzers developed from crosses between the Standard Schnauzer and one or more smaller breeds such as the Poodle, Miniature Pinscher, or Affenpinscher.
HistoryThe earliest records surrounding development of the Miniature Schnauzer in Germany come from the late 1800s. In the breed's earliest stages, several small breeds were employed in crosses to bring down the size of the well-established Standard Schnauzer, with the goal of creating a duplicate in miniature.
Crossing to other breeds, such as the Affenpinscher and Miniature Pinscher, had the side effect of introducing colours that were not considered acceptable to the ultimate goal — and as breeders worked towards the stabilization of the gene pool, mis marked particolored and white puppies were removed from breeding programs.
The earliest recorded Miniature Schnauzer was in 1888, and the first exhibition was in 1899. With their bold courage, the Miniature Schnauzer was originally used for guarding herds, small farms, and families. As time passed, they were also used to hunt rats, because they appeared to have a knack for it, and its small size was perfect to get into tight places to catch them. They excels at killing rats, but today it is mostly a popular and esteemed companion. Some of the Schnauzer's talents include: hunting, tracking, watchdogging, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.
The AKC accepted registration of the new breed in 1926, two years after they were introduced to the United States.
TemperamentVery perky and bright-eyed. Loving and intelligent. Energetic, affectionate, and obedient.
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their lively personality and mischievous sense of humor. They are also highly loyal to their owner and can be very energetic, but if not given proper exercise or a balanced diet, they will gain weight very quickly. They enjoy long, brisk, daily walks, and love play sessions off the leash.
An excellent protector of his home, the Miniature Schnauzer is often guarded of strangers until the owners of the home welcome the guest. The breed is very good with children recognizing that they are needing gentle play.
Because a Miniature Schnauzer can take commands and learn quickly, they are easy to train. However, Miniature Schnauzers require a great deal of attention and affection from their owner, regardless if they are to be used as show dogs or home pets.
Keep in mind, that Miniature Schnauzers can be very stubborn dogs and often pretend to not hear your commands. Be sure that you have firm control over them. If your Mini gets away with something once, it will never forget it. Also, no matter how much you trust your schnauzer, never let it off-leash in a non-fenced in area, they will run off.
Socialize this breed well with other dogs when it is still a puppy. If properly introduced, the Miniature Schnauzer will get along with another dog, but will not accept every dog that comes its way.
Schnauzers tend to bark a lot, but it does not have a yappy bark and is not as annoying as one may think. Most of the time the dog's bark sounds like it is talking to you in a low carried-out voice. They make good guard dogs and mouse catchers. They are excellent watchdogs and are great to travel with. Some can be reserved with strangers, but most love everyone.
Height: 12-14 inches (30-36cm.)
Weight: 10-15 pounds (5-7kg)
Health ProblemsThis is usually a healthy breed. Although some are prone to suffer from kidney stones, liver disease, skin disorders, von Willebrand's disease, diabetes, liver ailments and cysts. Also hereditary eye problems. Eyes of breeding stock should be checked for this. Do not overfeed the Schnauzer, for he tends to gain weight easily.
They have about 15 years of life span. They shows no signs of age until quite late in life.
source :
Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 06:35, March 5, 2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minature_Schnauzer
Dog Breed Info. Retrieved March 5, 2007, from http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/miniatureschnauzer.htm
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