The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest service dog. This characteristic does not allow us to consider this self-confident dog a room dog, even despite its modest size. He established himself as an excellent search engine in the police service. And how does the representative of the miniature schnauzer breed behave at home? Owner reviews, information about the origin and care will help to know this animal better.
Origin of breed
Zwergschauzer is from Germany. From the German language, the name of this breed can be translated approximately as "dwarf face". It is only known that the schnauzers are at the source of the breed. In order for the small and bold miniature schnauzer to gain its memorable appearance and solid character, serious breeding work was carried out, and the blood of poodles, Spitz, affenpincers was used.
The results of this work were presented at a dog show in 1890, where the new breed was a resounding success. In the same year, the standard of the miniature schnauzer was approved.
Description
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, muscular dog with a high front body. Due to the physique, the animal can develop high speed. What is the standard for a miniature schnauzer dog? Description of the breed should start with the size. And they really are not so modest. The weight of the miniature schnauzer is 4-8 kg. Agree, this is not a lot. The growth of the miniature schnauzer is not so small - 30-35 cm. Thus, we see a slim, graceful and lightweight dog in front of us.
The coat is as stiff and coarse as wire. The undercoat is thick, which protects the dog from frost. The feet are softer and shorter. Of course, the visiting card of the zerg is a long coat on the eyebrows and chin. The dog’s look is serious, like a human.
The color of the miniature schnauzer can be pure black, white, pepper with salt and black and silver.
Character
How does a miniature schnauzer behave? The nature of the breed does not always correspond to its appearance. Perhaps, to some, the miniature will seem like a harmless pet, a cute toy dog. But appearance is deceiving - at the slightest danger he will quickly turn into a swift and bold defender.
How aggressive can a miniature schnauzer be? The character of the owner of such a dog should be tough enough, because he needs to become an authority for a serious dog, albeit a small one.
The miniature schnauzer has a highly developed watchdog instinct, and its protective qualities are already evident from early childhood. A vigilant and incredibly attentive miniature will zealously protect his family members from any threats. This may not always be appropriate, so you need to seriously work with the dog. The dog should be aggressive only with permission.
Who is a miniature schnauzer? Owner reviews indicate that this is not only a brave guard, but also a gentle friend for children and adults. He will be indefatigable in joint games. But this dog needs a mutual relationship - if not enough time is spent with him, the pet can become naughty and even aggressive.
Care
Does the miniature schnauzer molt? The reviews of the owners are unanimous - with good care you will not have to clean his furniture and clothes from his wool. Trimming is an indispensable element of such care. Wool should be plucked at least twice a year - in autumn and spring. If trimming or mowing the miniature schnauzer is wrong, the coat may lose its structure and color. You need to turn to specialists who understand the intricacies of working with schnauzers.
In order to prevent the formation of tangles, the dog needs to be combed out 1-2 times a week with a brush. A dog is often not required to be washed. Water procedures using special means must be performed before trimming and in case of serious pollution.
The eyes, ears and nose of the dog require attention. They should be clean, dry, without redness or any discharge. Tinnitus, which interferes with good ventilation, can be removed.
Good care includes more than just pet hygiene. The miniature schnauzer feels good in a city apartment, but he needs a good walk 2 times a day for at least one or two hours.
Nutrition
The health of the miniature schnauzer is largely dependent on nutrition. If the animal’s diet is incorrect, an active dog can gain weight and quickly turn into a sloth. Health problems may occur. Animals of this breed are not prone to gluttony.
Like any dog, the tsverg can not be fed from a common table. But these dogs have a weak liver, and, therefore, fatty, fried, smoked, flour, sweet is strictly prohibited. The diet is important . Adult dogs are recommended to be fed 2 times a day.
You can choose a premium dry food, where all the necessary elements and vitamins are strictly balanced. Do not forget that in this case, the pet should always have access to fresh water.
Can a miniature schnauzer eat “natural”? Owner reviews suggest that this type of food is also suitable for these active animals. To create a menu you will need meat, offal, sea fish, dairy products, eggs, oatmeal, buckwheat and millet porridge, carrots, cabbage, beets. Eliminate all fatty foods.
Health
Active zergs often have various injuries. Young animals without strong immunity should be protected from viral and intestinal infections, poisoning.
In general, the miniature schnauzer breed is distinguished by good health and a sufficiently long life span - from 12 to 15 years. Common diseases include various eye diseases - cataracts, glaucoma, eyeball degeneration. Hypothyroidism, cysts and melanomas are found.
Parenting and training
Like other service dogs, the miniature schnauzer needs serious training and a visit to the training site. Require obedience from the pet must be patiently, not retreating. This dog needs a solid upbringing. At first, she will experience the limits of what is permitted as a child, but as soon as she is convinced that the owner is superior to her in everything and is a leader, disobedience will pass. It is important to load not only the body of the pet, but also occupy its mind.