Types of Miniature Dogs

Miniature Schnauzer
This breed of small dogs is a Schnauzer type, which originated in Germany in the 19th century. It is developed from crosses between a standard Schnauzer and two or more smaller breeds including affenpinscher and poodle. This Schnauzer type remains one of the most popular miniature breeds in year 2007. It is the 11th most popular breed in the United States.

This dog type is normally has squarely, small proportioned built, measuring about 30 to 36 centimeters tall and weighing 6.4 to 8.2 kilograms for males as well as 5 to 6.8 kilograms for female. The breed can suffer health problems related with high fat levels such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes as well as eye and bladder stone problems.

Miniature Pinscher
This small breed of dog is a Pinscher type and developed in Germany. This breed is also known as the King of the Toy Dogs. It is a friendly, energetic and playful dog breed that thrives on owner interaction. The breed usually stands about 25 to 30 centimeters at the withers and weighing 4 to 6 kilograms. The breed drives strongly and smoothly from the ear and the tail. Its head is carried high. This type of dog breed is prone to overeating and must have their diet stated to prevent obesity.

Scottish Terrier
This breed is also called aberdeen terrier and popularly known as the scottie. The dog is best known for its black color, a typical terrier characteristic and distinctive profile. It is one of the five terriers that originated in Scotland and the other four are West Highland White, Dandie Dinmont, Cairn and Skye Terriers.

They are generally cobby, sturdily built and short-legged with long head proportion to their size. Generally, the well-balanced Scottish Terrier must weigh 19 to 22 pounds and the female 18 to 21 pounds or about 28 to 38 centimeters in height. It usually has wiry, long, hard, water-resistant outer coating and soft dense undercoats.

Tips How to Care for Miniature Schnauzers

Vaccinate your schnauzer when you first get it and ensure that your dog gets annual booster vaccinations to maintain its immunity to diseases. Deworm your dog every 3 months and ask your veterinarian regarding flea control products.

Feed your schnauzer with high-grade dog food and the first ingredient must be meat if you desire a quality product. Basic protein must be no less than 25 to 30 percent and basic fat must be no less than 15 to 20 percent. The fiber content must be 5 percent or less.

Socialize your schnauzer to be with other dogs at an early age. Miniature schnauzers are aggressive with other dogs that they not know and they need to be watched from outside your house.

Run or walk your schnauzer everyday. Make sure your dog has ample of playtime off leash as well.

Brush your schnauzer coating everyday with wire brush. Make a professional trim to your schnauzer coat twice a year. Trim your schnauzer 2 to 3 three weeks.

Understand that your schnauzer is prone to certain health conditions including liver disease, diabetes, Von Willerbrand's disease, skin disorders and kidney stones.

Know that female miniature schnauzers grow to 11 to13 inches and weigh about 10 to 15lbs. while males will grow to 12 to 14 inches and weigh 11 to 18lbs. Expect miniature schnauzers to live approximately 15 years.