The Miniature Schnauzer is a playful, clever pup that makes an excellent pet. They have a long history of assisting humans with their hunting skills, but today, they’re primarily adopted as companion animals. Miniature Schnauzers are the 18th most popular dog breed in America, and we’ll discuss 10 more reasons to love this scruffy breed even more.¹

 

The 10 Miniature Schnauzer Facts

1. Mini Schnauzers Date Back to the 1400s

The Standard Schnauzer (one size up from the Mini Schnauzer) dates back to the 1400s. However, one of the benefits of having a small breed is their ability to catch small animals.

That’s why German farmers bred the Standard Schnauzer down to a miniature size in the 1800s. They could easily catch barn rats, and since 1899, Mini Schnauzers have remained a separate breed.

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2. Mini Schnauzers Are a Mix of Three Charming Breeds

German farmers created the Mini Schnauzer using the Standard Schnauzer, Poodle, and Affenpinscher to create the ideal vermin catcher. The result, of course, is the loveable Mini Schnauzer.

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3. Mini Schnauzers Aren’t Like Other Terriers

The majority of Terriers were created in the British Isles. However, the Mini Schnauzer is unique because they are entirely a German breed.

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4. Mini Schnauzers Are Tough Cookies

Mini Schnauzers are just as tough as they are sweet. First and foremost, the Mini Schnauzer protects their family. They have no problem voicing their opinions if they sense a nearby threat.

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5. They Are Not Like Giant Schnauzers

People assume the Mini and Giant Schnauzer are the same, but that is far from the truth. With their rat-catching background, Mini Schnauzers occupy the Terrier group, whereas Giants are part of the working group. But the most significant difference is in their personalities.

Mini Schnauzers are friendlier, especially around children and other dogs, than Giant Schnauzers. They also don’t require as much exercise. Interestingly, Miniature Schnauzers bark much more than Giant Schnauzers.

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6. Mini Schnauzers Require Moderate Grooming

Mini Schnauzers have a double coat that requires hand stripping. It takes some time, but their wiry topcoat keeps dirt and grime to a minimum. Extra love is needed to keep a Mini Schnauzer looking sharp.

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7. They Are Nosy Dogs

Mini Schnauzers have prominent snouts. The German word for snout is “schnauze,” referring to the dog’s distinctive mustache and serious eyebrows.

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8. They Can Be Couch Potatoes or Athletes

Mini Schnauzers are content with vegging on the couch with you and are more than happy to walk a 5k. They seem to have an on/off switch that’s ready at a moment’s notice.

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9. They Are Dog Sports Champions

Miniature Schnauzers are excellent dog sport competitors that thrive in agility courses, barn hunting, obstacle courses, and Earthdog competitions.

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10. The Mini Schnauzer Is the Most Popular of the Schnauzer Breeds

Between the Giant, Standard, and Mini, the Mini Schnauzer wins as the all-time favorite scruff ball.

Summary

Miniature Schnauzers are fantastic dogs. They are energetic and bold, and their personalities are much bigger than their small frames suggest. They have hearts of gold, a great work ethic, and are loving with everyone. Plus, who could ignore those mustaches and eyebrows?

See also:

• Black Miniature Schnauzer
• Can Dogs Eat Limes?

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Featured Image Credit: Sebastian Coman Travel, Unsplash