Miniature Schnauzer is a tough structured small but strong dog. It is joyous, lively and sharp in actions. As a pet, it is love bonded family dependent dog. It is happy when in vicinity of family. It is healthily playful, entertaining, caringly and affectionate towards children and rest of the family. Having fearless nature, it falls in terrier group, however, no or less dominating in comparison with standard Schnauzer. It behaves well with other pets including dogs, rarely very slight annoyed to other dogs. It does not exercise the authoritative control on other pets, even it can accept orders from other dog at home without any hesitation. It is intelligent and confident to present itself in daily activities voluntarily.

The Miniature Schnauzer is well muscled, tough build mini dog. Its physique is solid with good proportion of body and legs. Mature dog would be in approximately square dimensioned with head held high from upper line. Ears are erected upright and shaped like small ‘v’, long hairs around nose, eyes and all over the skull appear straight or wiry. Its eyes are black or brown, nose mostly black. The dog is originally vermin catcher or repellant, especially rat killer. The pace is brisk and attentive, able to catch and hold the quarry instantly. Closed undercoat is covered with hard wiry outer coat much suited for tough environment. Their wearing and bearing expression is upstanding casting the effect of high socialized and gentle dog.

The Standard Schnauzer originally belongs to Germany, where, it was used as ratter and vermin catcher dating very old and had been seen around the turn of century. German Pinscher and Schnauzer are contemporaries of that era. All three dogs with slight rough coat were identified by an association namely ‘The German Pinscher Schnauzer Club’. The evaluation by this club identified all these three breeds as separate, resulting in recognitions of Miniature Schnauzer as distinguished dog breed. The Miniatures are supposed to be descended down by the cross-breeding of the Affenpinscher and possibly the Poodle. First appearance of this breed is around 1888, first time exhibited in dog show during 1899 and recognized by AKC in 1926. The Miniature Schnauzers are proven good watchdog, small game hunter, vermin catcher, competitive obedience and ratter. The dog has good socialization norms and acceptable family pet.

Temperament

As the family pet, Mini Schnauzer holds all wanted qualities. Its terrier like strong and healthy physique make it a sturdy and tough dog, even sized small, it is not fragile in any case and can withstand with naughty children at home. On other hand, it enjoys to play cheerfully and amuse the children with tricks. Its gentle behavior to all other family pets make it more economical and harmony of the house environment remains retained. It is eager to remain close with owner and wants to get involved in activities.