The Miniature Schnauzer – Good Things Come in Small Packages
A dignified looking breed with a playful streak, the miniature schnauzer is
seemingly the perfect dog... assuming the owner understands how to handle a
terrier. There are few types of dogs that can rival the terrier for its
intelligence and inability to sense when it's in trouble. The miniature
schnauzer, gentlemanly as it may appear, is a scrapper at heart and will
throw itself into everything. Those not used to the terrier way should look
for something more sedate.
Bred for hunting rats, the miniature schnauzer is a combination of a
standard schnauzer and an affenpinscher. this unique combination led to a
compact dog with natural hunting instincts and a willingness to fight. These
traits have continued even as the miniature schnauzer has lost its original
purpose. We stress this part of his history because it is what mainly drives
the dog as a pet.
The miniature schnauzer will manage to get himself into trouble. You had
best accept that now. Whether it comes from challenging other (much larger)
dogs or simply burrowing under fences, this dog is a whirlwind of curiosity
and action. For those who are not acquainted with the terrier stubbornness
and drive, the miniature schnauzer will be too much. Only those experienced
with dominating a very dominant dog should handle this breed.
That is not to say that the miniature schnauzer has no saving graces. For
those able to handle him, he will be a lively and playful companion and an
excellent watchdog. He can, when socialized, do very well with other pets
and is perfect for traveling. His small size makes him a wonderful lapdog
(even if you do have to groom regularly to maintain his look). This is a
show-dog with a great personality and you will love him.
You just have to train him. Since the miniature schnauzer can be suspicious
of strangers, socialization is key. Take him everywhere with you to expose
him to the world. Also, this is a breed that was born to hunt. You will have
to teach him early that smaller animals are not to be chased. Again,
socialization will help but you will also have to take care to put up fences
in the yard and keep your miniature schnauzer on leash. This is for his
protection. Getting him out into the world is the best form of training for
the miniature schnauzer. He needs to understand that you are not the only
family and there are more dogs than him. Egocentric little fellow, isn't he?
This is a healthy breed for the most part. The typical dog illnesses can
strike but, assuming you don't overfeed him (the miniature schnauzer does
tend to bloat), he should live a long life.
And that guarantees you an exciting time with your dog. The miniature
schnauzer will seem more like a child than just a pet and his intelligence
and curious nature will keep you on your toes.
