My Dog Training Secrets 

The Miniature Schnauzer is a smaller, but sturdy dog. The miniature’s eyes are dark brown in color and are set deep on the face. The dog’s ears set high on the top of the head are sometimes cropped to a point, but when the ears are not cropped, they are smaller and have a V shape that lies close to the head. This breed has a double coat of fur with the outside coat being wiry and the undercoat being softer. The typical Schnauzer cut is with a full beard, mustache and eyebrows.

The color of the coat is usually black, white, black and silver, and salt and pepper. The breed stands about 10-14 inches at the shoulder and weighs an average of 10-15 pounds. The life expectancy for a Schnauzer is about 15 years, and often times they are healthy until the end of their life. There is also a Standard Schnauzer, which stands taller than the smaller breed, standing from 17-20 inches at the shoulder and weighing from 30-45 pounds.

The Schnauzer is a smart, joyful, loving breed. They tend to be full of energy and like to play, which can make them a good dog for children. This dog can make a great family pet. If socialized well, they can get along well with other dogs. If this breed senses that they are stronger in mind and will than the owner, they may not listen well.

When training the dog, the owner needs to be firm, with a voice of authority, but calm at the same time. Their bark tends to be a lower howl type of bark and not a yap likes other breeds. The Schnauzer can make a nice watchdog, but can be timid around strangers if not socialized well. The Standard size can be a little more aggressive than the Miniature, and may require a stronger owner as far as authority goes.

Because they are energetic, they love long, quick walks or even jogs. Having a play time off of a leash is great for the Schnauzer, if that is available to the owner. Sometimes the city will have a dog play park that might work well for playtime if the dog is well trained. A dog of this type who does not get out for exercise daily may show some behavior problems. As for living space, an apartment is even fine as long as the dog can get out in the day to stretch and exercise.

As far as grooming goes, it is fairly easy for the Schnauzer. It is good to get them clipped professionally twice a year, preferably autumn and spring. Otherwise, the owner can clean them and brush them regularly, as well as trim up any hair that needs trimming between groomings. The hair around the mouth can get dirty from eating, so it may be necessary to keep that area clean daily, or even after each meal.

This breed, like many others, is susceptible to skin disorders, overeating and weight gain, liver and kidney problems and diabetes. Feeding the proper type and amount of food, as well as regular exercise will help the dog to stay in good health.

Some important tips for training your Schnauzer include starting early and not waiting until they have developed some bad habits. Use an authoritative voice, not a loud voice. Be sure to give praise when it is due and not give attention to bad habits, because they love attention, so could get the wrong message. The dog can be redirected to the correct behavior. There are many methods and manuals that can be used to help in training your dog.

Schnauzers are smart, energetic dogs who love their families and respond well to authoritative, kind training. Most are well adjusted if trained well and can be a great companion to many owners.