Miniature Schnauzzie -- Miniature American Shepherd X Miniature Schnauzer

		Miniature Schnauzzie
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			Germany <> U.S.A. -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Miniature Schnauzzie

The Miniature Schnauzzie is a specific cross between a Miniature American Shepherd and a Miniature Schnauzer. It's well known for its lively, fun-loving, energetic nature and good integration into family life. Children adore this little dog, who has a big heart and seems to remain a perpetual puppy. Loyal and affectionate, they are eager to please and like to be the center of attention. They can become anxious if left alone for too long. They need exercise and mental stimulation to bring out the best in themselves. Although small, they have a great attitude and can be fearless even in the face of larger dogs. It's as if they don't realize how small they are. They'll love a house with a yard to play and explore, but they don't want to live there, they want to be with you inside and curled up on your lap. Intelligent and quick learners, these little dogs make great family companions.

History of the Miniature Schnauzzie

The Miniature Schnauzzie is a rare hybrid breed with limited data on its history and performance. Therefore, it's important to examine the parent breeds to determine the character traits of the new breed.

	A little of the Miniature American Shepherd
	Curiously, the Miniature American Shepherd has no breeding links with Australia. The breed originated in the Basque region of Spain. It was here that the working sheepdog invented the name, as many of the region's shepherds had come from Australia. In the late 1960s, North American breeders decided to refine the standard breed into a miniature version by breeding only the smallest Australian Shepherds. This refinement developed a smaller, more compact dog than the original, while retaining its lively instincts and reliable nature. By the 1990s, it had achieved enormous popularity, which continues to this day.

	Standard of the Miniature American Shepherd
	A little of the Miniature Schnauzer
	The Miniature Schnauzer is a brave little dog whose original purpose was to hunt vermin and guard the farm. Thought to have developed in mid-19th century Germany by crossing the standard Schnauzer with smaller breeds such as the Affenpinscher, Pomeranian and possibly the Poodle, early breed records note the birth of a Miniature Schnauzer which was a black female called Findel, who was born in October 1888. The first Mini Schnauzer club was formed in Cologne, Germany. While the years of the First World War were difficult for many dog breeds, the Miniature Schnauzer managed to hang on, then exploded in the years that followed. While the coat color has changed from red, black and tan and yellow to the distinguished shades of silver and black we see today, one thing hasn't changed, and that's their popularity, which remains as strong as ever.

	Standard of the Miniature Schnauzer

Appearance of the Miniature Schnauzzie

Appearance can vary even among puppies from the same litter. They may inherit the moustache and eyebrows of the Miniature Schnauzer, or the silky feathers around the neck and chest, like the Miniature American Shepherd. Regardless of coat differences, the body is well proportioned, the legs agile and strong, and the head is slightly flat on top of the skull, with ears set wide apart and erect. The muzzle can vary from square to pointed, with teeth meeting in a clean bite. Bright round eyes lack nothing, and their alert posture means they're primed and ready to go. The tail is often long and fluffy. While coat color and texture may vary in appearance, one thing remains constant, and that's their attractive nature and feisty spirit.

Temperament of the Miniature Schnauzzie

Funny, comical, affectionate and just a little bit stubborn describes the Miniature Schnauzzie's easy-going temperament. They have that Terrier lineage, so they can be a little pushy or demanding at times if they can get away with it. These dogs are ideal for active families, they love interacting with children and are sturdy little dogs that demand your attention. They can integrate perfectly into apartment life as long as they receive plenty of mental stimulation and a daily walk or two if possible. These dogs are social animals; they don't like to be alone and want to be part of the family. Without company and left to their own devices, they can become destructive and develop bad habits. The Miniature Schnauzzie is an intelligent dog, quick to learn as long as training is fun and praise is accompanied by treats. Eager to please, they almost anticipate what you're going to say. Quick and agile, they learn quickly and will love the mental stimulation of solving problems, finding hidden objects or tackling an agility course. These dogs are best with an active family and a strong leader they respect. With their beautiful appearance, charming nature and truly original personalities, they'll keep you guessing and laughing, making life with the Miniature Schnauzzie a true adventure.

Needs and activities of the Miniature Schnauzzie

The Miniature Schnauzzie is an active little dog who lives for the moment and loves to explore. They'll remind you if you've forgotten to take them for a walk, and would prefer a few daily walks rather than one. Keep them on a leash when they're out and about, as they can tend to chase small moving objects, and their hearing seems to suffer as a result. Your requests will go unanswered as they disappear into the distance, overcome by their instincts. They'll play endless games with children, children getting tired long before the dog. Like an energizing battery, they keep on working. But they love to cuddle, so if a game isn't in the cards, they'll throw themselves on your lap and demand your adoration.

Maintenance of the Miniature Schnauzzie

The Miniature Schnauzzie is relatively easy to care for, but this can of course vary depending on the coat it inherits. Often, daily brushing and an occasional bath with a mild dog shampoo will suffice. But if he inherits the coat of the Miniature Schnauzer, shearing may be an additional task. Check ears for dirt and foreign objects. These dogs are curious creatures and are likely to enter all sorts of places to satisfy their curiosity, which can lead to the accumulation of seeds and dirt in the ear. Gently wipe the inside of the ear with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Treat the teeth to a good brushing and check for cavities or cracks. Then, all you need is a pair of nail clippers and a cuddle to reward him for his patience.

Details: Written by: Francis Vandersteen; Also available:; Last Updated: 30 April 2024; Hits: 338

Miniature Schnauzzie -- Miniature American Shepherd X Miniature Schnauzer