Miniature Schnauzer information

Reena driving Miniature Schnauzers standard say they are alert, robust, active dogs that are from 12 to 14 inches tall and sturdily built. Their body should be nearly square in proportion. When their ears are cropped, they should be identical in shape and length with pointed tips. They should be in balance with the head and not exaggerated in length, sitting high on the skull. When the ears are not cropped, they should be small and v-shaped, folding close to the head. The typical Miniature Schnauzer is spirited, yet obedient to command. He is friendly, intelligent and willing to please. He should never be overaggressive or timid. They are non-shedding and hypoallergenic.

pup in hands Miniature Schnauzers are one of the breeds prone to Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). PRA refers to a retinal disease that causes blindness. Some breeds have blindness by abnormal development of the retina and this is called dysplasia. Other breeds have a slowly progressive retinal degeneration (PRD) or death of the retinal tissue and this is degeneration. It is a slowly progressive disease and the earliest signs may be overlooked. These diseases affect many breeds and in general are thought to be inherited. These diseases are known to be passed from parents to offspring even though the parents may have normal eyes. Therefore, identification of breeding animals with PRA is essential to prevent the spread of this condition. All of our dogs have been tested for PRA by a veterinary opthamologist. Check this site out for current research regarding PRA. Schnauzers are also prone to several other diseases such as diabetes, hypothyroidism and porto-systemic shunts. These diseases are not preventable with vaccines but can be avoided thru proper diet, exercise and the use of NuVet supplements. Read about the benefits of NuVet here.