11 Things You Should Know About The Miniature Schnauzer

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11 Things You Should Know About the Miniature
Schnauzer
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Introduction

• The mischievous miniature schnauzer has become
  very popular of late. After all, who can resist
  the distinguished pointy eyebrows and marvelous
  mustache of this plucky little fellow?
• Originally bred in Germany as a ratter to keep a
  farms vermin at bay, the miniature schnauzer is
  less accustomed to working for a living these
  days.
• But if you think that he has become a dainty
  lapdog, you are sadly mistaken.
• The miniature schnauzer is a sturdy, square set
  dog with muscular legs and a strong stance.
• Standing at 12 to 14 inches at the withers and
  typically weighing in at 5 to 10 kg, he is far
  from delicate and meek. Instead, he is feisty and
  brave yet loving and loyal.
• But before you fall for a miniature schnauzer and
  go and get yourself the cutest of puppies, there
  are some things you should know about the breed.
  Here are my top eleven.

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1.    Theyre Very Affectionate

• The miniature schnauzer likes nothing more than
  to snuggle with his human family.
• He simply loves a good cuddle.
• One things for sure, you will never be alone
  again with this nosey parker in the house.
• He will follow you everywhere you go and want to
  know what youre up to.

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2.    Theyre Friendly

• This chirpy character is exceedingly sociable and
  wants attention from everyone.
• He is a people pup but does get on with other
  breeds as long as hes been socialized from a
  young age.
• He is usually good with well-behaved children as
  well as older humans and so makes a great
  all-around family pet.

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3.    They like to Be a Comedian

• There is never a dull moment with a mini
  schnauzer around.
• Dont be surprised if this cheeky chap pinches
  your socks or sneaks of with a slipper.
• He is likely to use them to pounce on you later.
• A toilet roll addict too, nothing is safe.
• Be prepared to laugh at your mischievous monkey
  every day.

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4.    Theyre Clever

• This highly intelligent breed is eager to please
  which means that he does well with obedience
  training.
• Positive reinforcement training with treats work
  well.
• He thrives when his mind is made to work and
  enjoys mastering new tricks.
• His intelligence though can mean that he can be
  stubborn and even bossy at times.

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5.    They Can Be Active

• This lively little man moves fast, very fast. If
  he sees a rabbit in the park he is likely to be
  off.
• He is cheeky and playful and may well play-attack
  you armed with a cuddly toy without warning.
• His high energy level and quick mind make him a
  good candidate for agility training.
• Having said that, the miniature schnauzer is
  adaptable so will fit in with your lifestyle.
• Consistency though is key. Your pup wont be
  happy to suddenly go hiking for hours after
  spending weeks curled up on the sofa with you.
• Either way, he does require daily exercise.

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6.    Theyre Definitely Vocal

• A quiet mini schnauzer is a very rare thing.
• This makes sense as they were used as alarm dogs
  to alert their farmer masters to intruders.
• They are therefore suspicious of strangers to
  their home.
• They can certainly be noisy at times but are
  unlikely to bark for no reason.

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7.    They Can Be Greedy

• There is no getting away from it, a mini
  schnauzer is a greedy guts.
• He is always looking for food and will eat
  anything.
• He is though prone to weight gain and so pet
  parents should be careful with portion sizes and
  treats.
• Feeding him scraps from your plate is a definite
  no-no.
• Plenty of exercise will help keep him fit and
  healthy.

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8.    They Can be Prone to Health Issues

• The mini schnauzer is generally a healthy and
  hardy breed with an expected lifespan of 12 to 15
  years. But, as with most purebred pups, there are
  certain issues to be aware of including
• Pancreatitis
• Haemorrhagic Gastroenteritis
• Canine diabetes
• Hereditary Eye Issues (PRA)
• Hereditary Cataracts
• Urinary stones
• Hyperlipidemia
• This list may look a little scary but many can be
  avoided with responsible breeding and health
  checks. Therefore it is imperative that, if
  searching for a puppy, you obtain health
  screening results from both parents.
• A healthy diet is also a must so keep an eye on
  what youre feeding your mini. As they say,
  always read the label, to ensure that his food is
  nutritious and junk-free.

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9.    They Are Not a Hypoallergenic Breed

• Mini Schnauzers are often marketed as a so-called
  hypoallergenic breed but sadly this term doesnt
  really exist.
• There is simply no such thing.
• They are though low-shedding which means that
  they are often suitable for those with allergies.
  
• Unfortunately though, there is no guarantee.

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10.   They Need Regular Grooming

• The trade-off for the minimal shedding is that
  they need to be groomed regularly, every five to
  six weeks ideally.
• A professional groomer is recommended but, as
  their fur can become easily matted, daily
  brushing and combing, in addition, is a must.
• A well-groomed miniature schnauzer is very smart
  sight indeed.

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11.   Theyre Confident

• With extrovert tendencies, this brave bearded
  breed is a little dog in a big dogs clothing.
• He is a show-off and has absolutely no idea how
  small he really is.
• He is not at all phased by larger dogs, a trait
  that could get him into trouble. It is your job
  to keep him safe by socializing him from
  puppyhood so that he can safely strut his stuff.
• I hope that I have helped you to decide whether
  to bring a delightful miniature schnauzer into
  your home.
• As long as you go to a reputable breeder and pick
  a puppy wisely, there is no reason why you should
  not enjoy a long and healthy life together.
• There are almost always schnauzers in need of
  homes at rescue shelters so why not take a look.
• Whichever age you decide and from which
  background, a miniature schnauzer will, without
  doubt, make a loyal and faithful companion.

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Thank You

• Buy your next puppy at - centralparkpuppies.com/