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Anyone looking for a lively and inquisitive small to medium size house pet should not need not look any further. The Toy or Mini represents all that is to be desired in an energetic little dog. They are wonderful around children, delighting the family for hours on end with all their clever antics.
Due to my huge passion for the Schnauzer Breed I could devote pages to their characteristics. He is as much at home in the city with a small amount of exercise as he is in the country where he appears tireless. Amazingly Schnauzers adapt to any change of condition or climate. For example: Molly and Andy, Toys from Roxy and Pepper 2004 love their 50-60 degree below temperatures in
North Dakota. The Toys and Minis are fearless but not aggressive, so he can run with other breeds as well as Schnauzers. And like other terriers he will search out and attack vermin of all kinds. Used extensively as “ratters” in the early days in Europe
they rid the cities of disease-carrying rodents.
But is a Toy or Miniature Schnauzer the right dog for YOU? There are several breed characteristics that should be considered if looking at one of these as a companion. First, as a blessing in many households, the Mini is largely a non-shedding breed. That means that there is no natural seasonal removal of hair that scatters over your rugs or clogs your drain after baths. Non-shedding, however, means other things as well: you have to groom the Toy or Mini on a regular basis. For pet owners, you should plan on setting aside several hours 3 to 4 times per year at a minimum to clipper the back, trim the beard and eyebrows, and scissor the leg and stomach furnishings. Most professional groomers are very familiar with the; Toys or Miniature Schnauzer (more so than the other Schnauzer breeds) and can keep it in good condition and appearance if regularly visited. Prices vary considerably for grooming the Mini, but US $30-42 is typical. So, if you don't learn to do it yourself, plan for an occasional expense at the neighborhood grooming shop. Let me warn you, however, every owner of a Miniature should own some grooming supplies because you will quickly become unloved by groomers if you neglect the soft leg, beard, and under belly hairs. The soft legs, beard and under their tummy hair are light and fluffy with an easy tendency toward matting. The hair along the back of the Toy or Mini is quite different and naturally dense and wiry. However, unless the dog is headed for the show ring, this area is best clipped, instead of being stripped, leading eventually to a soft permanently exposed undercoat.
Besides grooming considerations, the Mini is an active, robust dog that wants to be near you at all times. It is hard to overlook these dogs, or ward them away. The breed thrives on attention and affection. They are alert, responding to almost every noise and every stranger. Most are highly intelligent with quick minds that make them easily trained, especially in obedience class, and ever so much the clown or entertainer. The Miniature Schnauzer, unlike its related Schnauzer breeds, is considered to be a Terrier. That distinction means these dogs are tenacious, clinging to most tug-of-war toys to the bitter end. It also means they are fast moving, quick in response and ground coverage, and if
vermin in your yard, but may be difficult for some owners who want a quiet and settled pet that rarely demands to be near you. The Toy and Miniature Schnauzers do not shed. While NOT hypoallergenic, Schnauzers surely can be enjoyed by persons who are allergic to other breeds of dogs. He makes a fantastic companion due to his extreme obedience and eagerness to learn. My admiration for the breed led me to strive to raise a well adjusted family member, one with a sound disposition and a wonderful temperament. To be the center of attention will always be the deepest desire of a Lit’l Bit of Heaven Schnauzer. He will want to live as a part of your family, going where you all go and doing what you all do. You might even find that your canine companion would love to have his own inner tube for a six hours river ride.
This breed is devoted, playful and affectionate, while his alertness makes him an excellent guard dog. They have a keen sense of hearing. Schnauzer excels as a guardian; he is steadfast protector of his home and family and to the people he loves. The fact that Schnauzers are very alert watch dogs does not mean that he will bark unnecessarily at any provocation. He will however be always be aware of peculiar noises, and will warn you whenever anyone approaches your home. It is for sure that you we are loved unconditionally when you add a Schnauzer to your family. His kindness and charm will capture the hearts of almost everyone visiting your home, even to non dog lovers. If you take walks be sure to have your Schnauzer along, they love walking, great at retrieving balls, yet love to be cradled in your lap or nuzzled next to you for a nap or at bedtime.
To summarize about whether a Toy or a Mini is for you, you need to yourself the following questions,
- Do I want a small active, loving canine companion?
- Will I be able to tolerate a welcoming bark?
- Can I find time to care for it's coat?
The Schnauzers widespread presence and abundant popularity means few seem able to resist the charm of the small bearded one. As the owner of many Toys & Miniature Schnauzers, I can honestly say that I always look forward to coming home and snuggling with my loveable “Babies”. Maybe you will too? There’s sure something to “being loved unconditionally!
Hopefully the above information has confirmed your desire to adopt a Toy or Miniature Schnauzer. And we hope in doing so you will consider one of the litters now or in the future here at Lit’l Bit of Heaven Schnauzer Farm.
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