All breeds › Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer dog breed
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, medium-energy dog breed from Germany, originally bred for hunting vermin on farms. It typically lives 12–15 years. It suits apartments and is easy to train.
A sturdy, bearded terrier-type from Germany that is clever, alert and low-shedding.
♥ Swipe on the Miniature SchnauzerQuick facts
- Breed type
- Purebred
- Origin
- Germany
- Size
- Small
- Energy
- Medium
- Bred for
- Hunting vermin on farms
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Temperament
- Alert, friendly, spirited
- Exercise
- 45 min/day
- Grooming
- High
- Shedding
- Low
- Training
- Easy
- With children
- Good
- Apartment
- Yes
Where the Miniature Schnauzer comes from
German farmers bred the Miniature Schnauzer in the late 1800s by crossing smaller Standard Schnauzers with breeds such as the Affenpinscher and Poodle. Its job was to keep rats off farms.
Personality and daily life
Intelligent, outgoing and sometimes stubborn. They are playful with children and usually get on with other pets.
Miniature Schnauzers are good-natured and love being with people. They bark at visitors, which makes them good watchdogs for their size.
Exercise, grooming and health
About 45 minutes of exercise a day. The wiry coat sheds little but needs brushing and professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. Pancreatitis, bladder stones and eye problems occur.
Is a Miniature Schnauzer right for you?
Apartments and families who want a small, trainable dog that sheds little. Be ready to groom and for some barking.
- Copes well with apartment living
- Easy to train, good for beginners
- Sheds little
- Needs regular grooming
Miniature Schnauzer questions answered
Is a Miniature Schnauzer good for apartments?
Yes. The Miniature Schnauzer generally copes well with apartment living if it gets daily walks and play.
Is a Miniature Schnauzer good with children?
Generally yes, especially with early socialisation. Supervise young children around any dog.
How much exercise does a Miniature Schnauzer need?
A Miniature Schnauzer needs about 45 minutes of exercise a day. Its energy level is medium.
Does a Miniature Schnauzer shed a lot?
Shedding is low for the Miniature Schnauzer. Grooming needs are high.
How long does a Miniature Schnauzer live?
A Miniature Schnauzer typically lives 12–15 years.
Is a Miniature Schnauzer easy to train?
Yes. The Miniature Schnauzer is generally easy to train and eager to learn.
Similar breeds
Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.