The Miniature Schnauzer has it all in one small package: intelligence, affection, an extrovert temperament, humour, and a personality twice the size of their body. Add a walrus moustache and a quivering enthusiasm, and they will make you laugh every day.

History

Miniature schnauzers were originally bred as rat-catchers and guard dogs on farms. They were developed in the mid to late 19th century in Germany by crossing the Standard Schnauzer with smaller breeds, such as the Miniature Pinscher, Affenpinscher, and perhaps the Poodle or Pomeranian. In Germany, it is known as the Zwergschnauzer.

There are no records of how the Miniature Schnauzer was developed, but it is clear that the intention was to create a smaller version of the widely known Standard Schnauzer. The earliest record of a Miniature Schnauzer was a black female named Findel, born in October 1888.

Personality

A Miniature Schnauzer is full of life. He is extroverted and likes to join in the family action. He is not aloof or independent, but he needs to be with people, and what is more, he wants to be in close physical contact.

He is highly intelligent, which makes training easy, but it also means he is a master of manipulation. That combined with his stubbornness will keep you on your toes. However, it is not as nippy as some terriers, nor dog-aggressive.

Known disorders