In the world, a great many service dogs - from bloodhounds to life-saving divers. Today we will talk about the smallest representatives of this group of dogs - miniature schnauzers.
A bit of history
Miniature schnauzers are a dwarf variety of schnauzers. It is not known how and when this breed was bred. There are only significant assumptions that the progenitors of the miniature schnauzers were the middle schnauzers - larger representatives of the schnauzers. They have the same exterior, the difference is only in size.
The official date of presentation of this breed to the general public is considered to be 1888, the homeland is the Swabian region.
Description
Growth of an adult does not exceed 35 cm, weight - in the range from 4 to 8 kg. Females are slightly smaller than males.
- Ears tight to the head, with a crease. They are often stopped - to improve the appearance and enhance hearing.
- The muzzle is wedge-shaped, with a rectangular beard. Thick eyebrows hanging over the eyes - careful and regular care is required.
- Build muscular, strong. The croup is round, the stomach is tightened.
- Paws are small in size with fingers pressed together. In the presence of extra fingers on the hind limbs, they are removed surgically at an early age (within 1-2 weeks after birth).
- The tail can be short from birth (1 vertebra) or long, but in this case the puppy stops it, leaving a segment of 2-3 vertebrae.
- Wool is tough, many compare it to wire. This structure of the coat is embedded in the dog’s genes.
The color of the wool can be different, but only four main colors are prescribed in the standard:
- pure black color (both wool and undercoat);
- jet black with silver;
- "Pepper and salt";
- pure white.
The color of the coat does not affect the character or other qualities of the dog, so if you have a puppy of a different color (for example, a chocolate one), nothing will prevent you from growing a wonderful friend and protector from it. Just for breeding such dogs are not used.
Character
The Miniature Schnauzer is a rather peaceful pet, flexible and cheerful. He loves active pastime, outdoor games. They are not recommended to start with people with disabilities and families with small children - although the level of aggression in this breed of service dogs is low, it requires respect for itself and its personal space.
Among the advantages of the miniature schnauzers should be noted:
- good learning (subject to the timely start of training);
- non-conflict - gets along with other pets - cats, dogs and others without any problems, does not break into the pursuit of animals on the street;
- he treats strangers and strangers wary, but does not show aggression for no reason.
Among the shortcomings are such features as:
- excessive curiosity - can lead to trouble;
- empty barking (for some minor reason or no reason at all);
- digging holes and holes - If the puppy is not looked after, it can ruin the parquet, carpet or tear up the yard / garden.
Conditions for keeping
Before you get a puppy, think about how to provide him with normal conditions.
- First of all, take care of buying the necessary equipment - utensils, a leash, a collar.
- For water and food, bowls should be separate, preferably metal (stainless steel) - they are much more durable and practical than plastic dishes.
- Prepare a place where the puppy will sleep. Do not spoil it, do not take it to your bed or sofa. Lay him something soft and warm, protect the bed from drafts.
- A dog must be trained on a leash and collar from an early age. Of course, the kids need a collar made of soft leather, and the leash is not too long - so that the pet does not run far or get tangled in its paws. As you grow older, the occasion can be lengthened, and the collar can be replaced with metal or hard leather.
- Consult with your veterinarian what medicines for dogs should always be at hand and prepare them.
- Adjust your daily routine to walk your pet and play with it. The dog needs an active pastime and attention of the owner.
- Get your pet toys that he can grind his teeth, otherwise he will spoil the furniture and other things.
What to feed?
For puppy nutrition, it is best to consult a veterinarian. Of course, a lot depends on your financial capabilities, but there are a few subtleties that you should know.
- When choosing a diet (prepared food or natural products), stick to it. Do not skip from one feed to another or mix rations.
- If you are a supporter of natural nutrition, remember that in this case the dog may not receive the necessary minerals and biologically active substances, so be sure to add vitamin preparations to your food. In finished feed mixtures, they are already included in the composition.
- It is necessary to include meat and meat offal, vegetables, cereals from cereals, as well as cottage cheese (a source of calcium) in a natural diet.
- If the means allow, choose ready-made holistic-class feeds - they are made only from high-quality natural products and do not contain any synthetic additives (preservatives or flavorings) that can adversely affect the health of your pet.
How to care?
Before purchasing a pet, consult with the breeder what care he needs. Features of the coat dictate the need for some procedures that another dog may not need.
The list of these additional manipulations includes the following.
- Grooming. Comprehensive care for the hair, teeth, claws, ears and eyes of the pet.
- Trimming The so-called forced molting of dead hair. Especially relevant for breeds with hard coat. It is advisable to carry out at least 2 times a year. Even if you regularly trim your dog, miniature schnauzers need trimming.
- Cut your bushy eyebrows and beard as needed. Too thick and long eyebrows stick into the eyes and cause their irritation.
- Wash the dog's paws, beard and head every week. Full washing is not required so often, but partial washing is necessary, since pieces of food, dirt and rubbish often get stuck in these parts of the body.
- For swimming, pick up mild conditioner shampoo.
- Watch your claws, carefully trim them with nail clippers as needed.
- 2 times a year at the veterinarian go purification of the paraanal glands
- Cropped ears do not require as much attention as uncropped ears, but still inspect them regularly and wipe them with a cotton pad dipped in lotion.
- Do not forget about vaccinations and examinations at the veterinarian. Find out the schedule of necessary vaccinations in advance and do not miss them without good reason. For any health problems, consult a specialist in order to prevent complications.
And most importantly - love your pet, and believe me, he will reciprocate.
You can look at the beauty of a black puppy further.