Miniature Schnauzer

Like every breed, the Miniature Schnauzer is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Start reward-based training early and keep it going.
• Be patient and consistent.
• Pay special attention to a reliable recall.
• Socialise them well, including with cats if they will live with one.
• Try dog sports such as agility or heelwork to music.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Cats and small pets

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually happier in a house.

• Garden

  A garden is helpful.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Some dog experience helps.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC)

  An inherited immune problem that can leave the dog unable to fight off certain infections. The Royal Kennel Club recommends a DNA test before breeding.

• Eye conditions

  Miniature Schnauzers can be affected by congenital and hereditary cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and dry eye. The Royal Kennel Club recommends eye testing under the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme, including litter screening.

• Bladder and urinary stones

  Minerals can form stones in the bladder or urinary tract, which can be painful.

• Schnauzer comedo syndrome

  An inherited skin disorder in which blackheads and bumps develop on the skin.

• Atopy

  An allergy to things in the environment that makes the skin sore and itchy.

• Pancreatitis and hyperlipidaemia

  Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can range from mild to severe. Hyperlipidaemia is where fat levels in the blood become too high.

• Hormonal conditions

  The breed can be prone to diabetes mellitus, Cushing's syndrome and hypothyroidism.

• Intervertebral disc disease

  Abnormality of the discs that cushion the bones of the spine.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Miniature Schnauzer home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Miniature Schnauzer home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 10 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Miniature Schnauzer suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Miniature Schnauzers do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.