Miniature Schnauzer: Mighty Mini

The Mini is not a couch potato for sure. This spirited dog was originally developed to exterminate rats on farms!

- Patricia E Tan

Boasting a superb temperament, the Miniature Schnauzer hankers for human companionship. It is consistently cheerful, sweet, and spirited yet obedient.

With his bushy beard and eyebrows the Minis offers a charming, human-like expression. Add to the mix, its outgoing personality, portable size, and sporty good looks, make him an ideal family dog.

Considered the smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds, the Mini is a generally healthy, stocky and robust little fella standing 30cm to 35cm in height. This low-shedding companion has a hard, wiry coat in three colour combinations: salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black.

Cheery Characteristics

Minis are bright, friendly, easily trained and well suited to apartment living.

These study little guys get along well with children and other animals and children, and enjoy the rambunctious play.

Vocal and alert by nature, he makes an excellent watchdog. Don’t expect a Mini to be content curling up on the couch all day – he’ll need brisk walks twice daily and time to romp around a field or park weekly.

Give him a toy, and this independent pooch will gladly amuse himself. Once his energy is spent, he’ll will be more than happy to be your cuddle bug.

Health & Diet

The Miniature Schnauzer is naturally hardy, so if cared for properly, it should stay in fairly good health for most of its life.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), there are a few conditions that the breed can be prone to, including cataracts, hyperlipidemia, pancreatitis, liver shunts, and urinary stones.