Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a bold, spirited terrier packed into a compact 11-20 pound frame, distinguished by their distinctive bearded face and bushy eyebrows. Originally bred in Germany as farm dogs to hunt rats and guard property, these alert little dogs retain their working instincts and take their watchdog role seriously—your neighbors will definitely know when someone approaches your door.

Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent, trainable, and surprisingly athletic despite their size. They're generally good with children and other dogs when properly socialized, though their terrier heritage means they have opinions and can be stubborn. Their wiry coat is considered hypoallergenic (low-shedding) but requires regular grooming—either professional clipping every 5-8 weeks or learning to hand-strip the coat to maintain proper texture.

If you want a smart, alert, portable companion who's big on personality but small on size, adaptable to apartment or house living, and makes an excellent watchdog, a Miniature Schnauzer is perfect. They need daily exercise and mental stimulation, consistent training to manage their stubborn streak, and regular grooming—but they offer loyalty, entertainment, and a dog who thinks they're much larger than they actually are.