Dog breed · Terrier
Miniature Schnauzer
A robust little terrier with a distinctive beard, happy in town or country and quick to announce visitors.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Terrier
- Origin
- Germany
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5–9 kg (11–20 lb)
- Height
- 30–36 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Wiry double coat, low shedding
- Temperament
- SpiritedAlertFriendlyInquisitive
History
Bred down from the Standard Schnauzer with Affenpinscher and Poodle influence to catch rats on German farms.
Appearance
Square, sturdy body with bushy eyebrows and beard, in salt-and-pepper, black or black-and-silver.
Exercise and activity
An hour daily plus scent and trick work.
Care and grooming
Brush twice weekly with hand-stripping or clipping every six to eight weeks; keep the beard clean after meals.
Health considerations
- Pancreatitis
- Hyperlipidaemia
- Urinary stones
- Cataracts
- Myotonia congenita
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Miniature Schnauzer
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: An hour daily plus scent and trick work. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Pancreatitis, Hyperlipidaemia, Urinary stones, Cataracts, Myotonia congenita), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice