Miniature Schnauzer

Spunky, sweet, devoted as of 2008 the Miniature Schnauzer is listed as the 11th most popular breed in America. This breed is a loyal companion and watchdog. The Miniature Schnauzer, though small, is not delicate or timid. It is stocky, muscular and sturdy. It stands from 12 to 14 inches tall, and may or may not have cropped ears and docked tail. The American Kennel Club breed standard calls for a docked tail but the ears may be left natural. This breed comes in several color varieties, but the AKC recognizes only three: salt and pepper, solid black, or black and silver. This is because the AKC wishes to stick close to the original form of the ancient Schnauzer breed, which is documented in those three colors. However, there exists a long-standing controversy over the solid white color in particular. Since the white re-emerged in the 1950's various kennel clubs have disagreed over allowing the color into their official standards of breed. The AKC, the Canadian Kennel Club and the United Kingdom Kennel Club all argue that the white color was likely not present in the early form of the breed and that it is largely unknown whether it is caused by a natural recessive trait, an albino characteristic, or a genetic mutation signaling possible bad health. The White Miniature Schnauzer Initiative was formed in Germany in 2006, its mission to educate, promote and expand the gene pool of the white Mini Schnauzer. The Miniature Schnauzer has a double coat: the topcoat is wiry and coarse, the undercoat soft. Eyes should have a keen, alert, expressive sweetness. Average lifespan of the Miniature Schnauzer is 12-15 years. Although some breeders advertise dogs as "Toy Schnauzers"� who weigh less than 10 lbs. as an adult, this is considered a sales gimmick as no such breed is recognized; these dogs are simply Miniature Schnauzers bred to be very small. The breed standard specifies 10-15 lbs. at maturity. The Mini Schnauzer was developed in Germany in the mid to late 1800's. Its ancestor, the Standard Schnauzer, appears in 15th century paintings, but the first documentation of the miniature breed occurs in 1888. Exact history of the breed's origin is uncertain, but it is generally believed that in addition to the Standard Schnauzer, the mix included either poodle or Affenpinscher, along with Miniature Pinscher. Early breeding strived to maintain the general appearance of the Standard Schnauzer, but in a smaller version. The Miniature Schnauzer was registered with the AKC in 1926; in the U.S. it is shown in the terrier group, but in the U.K. and other parts of Europe it is shown in the "utility" or working category. Mini Schnauzers were not originally ratters, as some believe. Rather, they were first bred as watchdogs for small farms, guarding family, herd, and property. Only later was it discovered that they were good at keeping the barn clear of vermin and so this trait was also encouraged. Because the Mini Schnauzer sheds very little, it is often chosen as a good dog for those families whose members have allergies. Miniature Schnauzers need frequent grooming to stay clean and maintain the classic appearance of close-cropped body fur and long beard. Fur on the legs is allowed to grow longer and is usually referred to as "feathers"� or "furnishings"�. The owner should plan on having the Mini Schnauzer fully groomed every 5-8 weeks. This is usually done by a professional, although some owners learn to do it themselves, maintaining that the cost of the necessary top-notch grooming tools is quickly compensated for by the first few home groomings! Miniature Schnauzers are generally healthy dogs, if they are obtained from an experienced breeder and the owner avoids allowing excess weight. Mini Schnauzers sometimes develop pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia (fat in the blood), or diabetes all of which may be exacerbated by fatty foods, sweets, or being overweight. Along with diabetes, other hereditary diseases found in the breed are Cushing's Syndrome, allergies, bladder stones, epilepsy, liver shunts, renal dysplasia, myotonia, and eye diseases such as retinal dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and cataracts. Some Mini Schnauzers tend to develop benign, fluid-filled tumors on their skin called "Comedone Syndrome"�; these are easily removed at the veterinary clinic. The Miniature Schnauzer may be prone to ear infections if un-cropped ears become wet, such as when the dog is bathed or swimming. For this reason, this dog should always have ears examined during regular veterinary visits. The Miniature Schnauzer always wants to be with its family, whether active or sleeping. It is a true family companion. The word "schnauzer"� translates roughly to "one who talks back"�, and the Mini Schnauzer lives up to its name. It is very vocal, and will bark in playful excitement, and when someone comes to the door or even near the house. Once the stranger is accepted by the owner, the Mini Schnauzer will usually be quite friendly. This breed is very playful and social with other dogs. The Miniature Schnauzer does well with older children and teenagers; when raised from a pup with young children this dog can adapt to life with youngsters as well, but parents should remain sensitive to the fact that this breed was designed to be highly reactive to quick movements and high-pitched noises. As with any dog, this breed should be supervised around small children. Likewise, a small animal such as a kitten, hamster or bird, should be very gradually introduced to the Mini Schnauzer until the dog learns to see the smaller animal as a household pet and not as prey. The Miniature Schnauzer is bold, fearless and tireless, but unlike many terrier-type breeds it is rarely aggressive. As a watchdog it is very likely to bark in order to warn the owner of danger, but will almost never attack to defend. Its innate intelligence and eagerness to please make this breed a joy to train. It usually excels in activities and competitions such as hunting, tracking, obedience trials, and agility. Because it enjoys searching out vermin, earthdog competitions are also a favorite activity.

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