What is it about the Miniature Schnauzer that makes your heart melt? Is it the mustache? The fuzzy little legs? The lovey-dovey personality?
The correct answer is all of the above. Miniature Schnauzers are the 18th most popular dog breed in America and were about to give you 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 old German farmers bred the Standard Schnauzer down to a miniature size in the 1800s. The dogs could easily catch barn rats while staying true to their tough farm dog personalities. Since 1899, Mini Schnauzers have remained a separate breed.
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 our mustache-loving Mini Schnauzer.
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 it is entirely a German breed.
4. Mini Schnauzers Are Tough Cookies
Mini Schnauzers are just as tough as they are sweet. First and foremost, the Mini Schnauzer protects its people. They have no problem voicing their opinions if they feel threatened or disagree with a situation.
5. They Are Not Like Giant Schnauzers
People assume the Mini and Giant Schnauzer are the same but different sizes, yet this 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 personality.
Mini Schnauzers tend to be more friendly, 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. Size doesn’t seem to matter with the Minis.
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.
7. They Are Nosy Dogs
Quite literally, too. The German word for snout is “schnauze,” referring to the dog’s distinctive mustache and serious eyebrows.
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 that 5k. They seem to have an on/off switch that’s ready at a moment’s notice.
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.
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
There you have it—10 facts about the Mini Schnauzer. What do you think? Did we surprise you?
Miniature Schnauzers are fantastic dogs. They have hearts of gold, a great work ethic, and are loving with everyone. Plus, who could ignore those mustaches and eyebrows?
See also:
Featured Image Credit: Sebastian Coman Travel, Unsplash
Contents
- The 10 Miniature Schnauzer Facts
- 1. Mini Schnauzers Date Back to the 1400s
- 2. Mini Schnauzers Are a Mix of Three Charming Breeds
- 3. Mini Schnauzers Aren’t Like Other Terriers
- 4. Mini Schnauzers Are Tough Cookies
- 5. They Are Not Like Giant Schnauzers
- 6. Mini Schnauzers Require Moderate Grooming
- 7. They Are Nosy Dogs
- 8. They Can Be Couch Potatoes or Athletes
- 9. They Are Dog Sports Champions
- 10. The Mini Schnauzer Is the Most Popular of the Schnauzer Breeds
- Summary
