Miniature Schnauzers are friendly, smart, and obedient. They are one of three Schnauzer types recognized by the American Kennel Club, and also the smallest. The Standard Schnauzer and Giant Schnauzer are similarly groomed, but have many differences, like their temperament. Learn more about this German breed with these Miniature Schnauzer fun facts.
They’re Eager to Be Part of the Family
Miniature Schnauzers want to be a part of your family and do whatever their owners are doing. They are happy as long as they are with their people, whether you’re out exercising or gardening at home. They just want to be with you.
Miniature Schnauzers Shed Very Little
Because they’re a dog breed that sheds very little, they might be a good choice for allergy sufferers. As an added bonus, you won’t have much dog hair in your house. The only catch is that Miniature Schnauzers should be groomed every six weeks.
They’re Part of the Terrier Group
Miniature Schnauzers belong to the Terrier Group. In contrast, their larger relatives, the Standard Schnauzer and Giant Schnauzer, belong to the Working Group.
Miniature Schnauzers Excel at Dog Sports
They are an inquisitive and competitive breed that can be quite athletic. Miniature Schnauzers can thrive while competing in many dog sports, including Agility, Obedience, AKC Rally, Barn Hunt, and Earthdog.
They Were Bred Down From Standard Schnauzers
Farmers bred them down from the Standard Schnauzer to make them more useful around the farm. The Miniature Schnauzer has been known as a separate breed since 1899.
There Are Three Recognized Colors
According to the Miniature Schnauzer’s AKC breed standard, the recognized colors for the breed are salt and pepper, solid black, and black and silver. Each color must have uniform color pigmentation (i.e., no patches of other colors appearing on the dog), and the nose must be solid black.
They’re a Long-Established Breed in America
According to the American Miniature Schnauzer Club, the Miniature Schnauzer has been bred in the United States since at least 1925. The AKC recognized the breed in 1926, and the American Miniature Schnauzer Club was created in August 1933.
Miniature Schnauzers Are Pretty Popular
Miniature Schnauzers are one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Out of over 200 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are typically among the top 20 breeds each year.
Minis Can Be City or Country Dogs
Miniature Schnauzers were bred to be farm dogs and ratters, but that doesn’t mean they won’t do well in your apartment. These dogs are incredibly adaptable, and with enough exercise and stimulation, can thrive in cities just as well as running through acres of farmland.
They Aren’t British
In contrast to most other AKC terrier breeds, the Miniature Schnauzers have no British ancestry. These terriers come from Germany, from their Standard cousins. Most terrier breeds were developed in the British Isles, and those that weren’t, the Rat Terrier and Cesky Terrier, were still crossed with British breeds to be created.