9781422278420

A Miniature Schnauzer must learn to cooperate with all mem- bers of his human family, no matter how small they are. Interactions should be closely supervised, so he learns that jumping up, mouth- ing, and nipping are not acceptable behaviors. If you get relations off to a good start, you will be rewarded with a wonderful companion who is loving and affectionate with all mem- bers of his family.

Life expectancy We are fortunate that the Miniature Schnauzer is a healthy breed with a good life expectancy. Most will reach their early teens, and some may live even longer.

Schnauzer history The Miniature Schnau- zer is a bred-down ver- sion of the Standard Schnauzer, a medium dog measuring 17.5 to 19.5 inches (44 to 50 cm) at

the highest point of the shoulders. The Standard is the origi- nal member of the Schnauzer family. A type of dog very similar to the Standard Schnauzer was popular in the 14th or 15th century in southern Germany, where he was used as an all-purpose farm dog. He worked as a drover, moving livestock from place to place, was a formidable ratter in the stables, and was a useful watchdog. This versatile dog would also pull a cart to market if required. There is no question that the Schnauzer has a long history. Albrecht Durer depicted a Schnauzer in a 1492 watercolor titled Madonna with the Many Animals .

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