Mittelshnauzer

Breed Description

Medium Schnauzers originated in Germany in the 15th century. They were indispensable on farms. Initially, they were bred as rat catchers, guard dogs, and versatile dogs on German farms. Their average size, versatility, and hardworking nature made them ideal workers on farms. Today, however, they are excellent companion dogs and outstanding protectors of their families.

The Medium Schnauzer is considered the standard among German Schnauzers and Pinschers. They formerly formed a common group of working dogs for common people, spreading throughout Central Europe. Coaches and traveling merchants, especially in Germany, preferred them. Transporters needed a dog capable of running long distances, reliably guarding the cart and cargo even at night after a long, strenuous day. These dogs had to independently and confidently protect their owner’s property, and this mindset can still be seen in Schnauzers today.

Our Pinschers and Schnauzers’ common ancestors grew into extremely resilient dogs. When horses or mules were taken out of the stable, the work of these dogs was not yet finished. In addition to guard duties, they also cleaned the stable of vermin, hunting mice and rats.

Around 1870, these dogs began to be categorized into the now-known breeds of Pinscher and Schnauzer according to their sizes and colors. Contrary to widespread rumors, Schnauzers are not close relatives of English terriers, as confirmed by a 2017 genetic analysis of over 100 breeds involving more than 13,000 dogs conducted by geneticists under the leadership of Heidi Parker.

Modern Schnauzers represent a popular breed of wire-haired dogs. The Standard, or Medium, Schnauzer, also known as the Mittelschnauzer, is the most common representative of this group. Since their breeding began in 1895, they have become an integral companion for many people.

This breed, one of the oldest in Germany, originally gained popularity as an ideal family companion. For a long time, it was a constant adornment of every urban area. However, today these amazing dogs have become a rarity. In 1955, the Schnauzer was officially recognized by the International Canine Federation.The Pinscher-Schnauzer Club, founded in 1895, actively promotes the development and breeding of the Schnauzer as a unique family and companion dog. Its focus covers the entire breed group, bringing together over 13,000 members. The club is also responsible for establishing the standard for Pinschers and Schnauzers worldwide. Currently, the Standard Schnauzer breeds about 500 puppies a year in their native Germany. This medium-sized, square-built dog looks like a smaller version of the Riesen Schnauzer. Their thick eyebrows and beard give them a regal appearance, while their intelligence and sociable nature distinguish them from other breeds!Standard Schnauzers are intelligent, strong-willed, and persistent. They are considered some of the smartest and best problem-solvers among all breeds. Their temperament is interesting, especially in their enthusi

Appearance

The Mittelschnauzer is a compact and active family dog characterized by its medium size and energetic temperament. It has a distinctive appearance typical of all Schnauzer breeds, earning it recognition among the diversity of dog breeds. The breed standard describes it as a medium-sized dog that is sturdy and stocky rather than lean, with harsh fur in various shades.

When you look at a Mittelschnauzer, you will notice a strong dog with a square build, covered in dense, harsh fur in shades of salt and pepper or solid black. Notable features include an upright docked tail, a rectangular head with arched eyebrows above dark-brown eyes, bristly whiskers and beard, as well as ears that can be either cropped or natural.

The Mittelschnauzer has a strong, muscular, nearly square build (the length of the body corresponds to the height at the shoulders). It has a keen expression and a watchful demeanor. The standard emphasizes that proper anatomy is more important than color or mere external “beauty.”

The height of the Mittelschnauzer ranges from 45 to 50 centimeters, and its weight varies from 14 to 20 kilograms. With proper care and training, this breed can live to be 14 years old or more.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head is strong and of good length, narrowing from the ears to the eyes, and then gradually forward to the tip of the nose. The upper part of the head (from the back of the neck to the base of the forehead) is moderately wide between the ears. A flat forehead with no folds; well-muscled but not overly developed cheeks. A medium stop to highlight the prominent eyebrows. The neck is moderately long, strong, and slightly curved; the skin near the throat; the neck is clearly set on the shoulders.

Морда

A strong muzzle ending in a moderately blunt line, with bristly short whiskers and sideburns on the chin. The bridge of the nose is straight and runs almost parallel to the continuation of the forehead. The nose is black with wide nostrils. The lips are tightly pressed together, but they do not overlap.

Уши

The ears are neat, V-shaped, set high, and tilted forward towards the temples.

Глаза

The eyes are medium-sized, dark, oval, protruding, with thick, arched eyebrows.

Зубы

The jaws are strong, with a perfect, correct, and complete scissor bite, meaning the upper teeth tightly overlap the lower teeth and are positioned perpendicular to the jaws.

Корпус

The chest is moderately wide; deep, with a clearly visible strong breastbone reaching at least the height of the elbow and slightly rising toward the lower back. The back is strong and straight, with the shoulders a bit higher than the hind limbs, featuring a short, well-developed loin. The ribs are well-arched. The body length is equal to the height from the top of the withers to the ground.

Конечности

Плечи плоские и хорошо посаженные. Передние конечности прямые, если смотреть под любым углом. Мышцы скорее гладкие и гибкие, чем выступающие; кость крепкая, прямая, хорошо доходящая до ступней; локти прижаты к телу и направлены прямо назад. Бедра косые, плоские, но с сильной мускулатурой. Задние конечности (верхняя и нижняя часть бедер) сначала расположены вертикально по отношению к коленям; от колена до скакательного сустава на уровне продолжения верхней линии шеи; от скакательного сустава, вертикально к земле. Лапы короткие, круглые, кошачьи, компактные, с плотно сводистыми пальцами, темными когтями, твердыми черными подушечками, лапы направлены вперед. Походка свободная, уравновешенная и энергичная, с хорошим вымахом передних конечностей и хорошей движущей силой задних конечностей. Линия верха остается ровной в действии.

Хвост

The tail used to be traditionally docked. Docked: it is set high and usually attached to three joints. Undocked: it is set high, of medium length, to provide the dog with overall balance. Thick at the base and tapering to the tip, it is as straight as possible and held up happily.

Шерсть

The wool is coarse, wiry, and fairly short. It is shorter on the neck, shoulders, throat, skull, and ears. There are stiff hairs on the legs. A dense undercoat is essential.

Окрас

The coat color of Mittelschnauzers can be pure black (white markings on the head, chest, and legs are undesirable) or "pepper and salt." The shades of pepper and salt range from dark gray iron to light gray; good pigmentation is important. The hair is intertwined with dark/light/dark strands. The facial mask should match the corresponding coat color.

Character

The Mittel Schnauzers make ideal family companions, easily adapting to urban life and modern family environments. With the right training and guidance, these dogs can impress with their impeccable behavior.

The training process for a Mittel Schnauzer requires a serious and consistent approach, starting from the puppy’s early age. Clear rules and direction from the owner are important, and it’s necessary to maintain consistency in training, considering the high level of intelligence of this breed and its ability to notice sloppiness and inconsistency.

The strong temperament and character, along with the playful appearance of the Mittel Schnauzer, perfectly reflect its inner values. Interacting with this breed is easy thanks to its intelligence, ability to learn, and capacity to adapt to the owner’s preferences. The Mittel Schnauzer has its own will but listens well to its owner. Its curiosity and energy make it an unwavering guardian and a loyal, persistent companion.

The official standard of the Mittel Schnauzer emphasizes its lively temperament, combined with thoughtful calmness. Notable traits include a gentle nature, loyalty to the owner, and a friendly attitude towards children.

Standard Schnauzers get along well with children because they are playful and tolerant. This breed is known for being an excellent companion, devoted to its family members.

Mittel Schnauzers are loyal and loving companions. They strive to please their family, especially when they get along with you. This charming dog loves attention!The standard Schnauzer typically enjoys playing with other pets in the home. They will also find it easier to make new friends if they are socialized at an early age or grow up together with them from puppyhood.In terms of their characteristics, they are strong, energetic dogs capable of great endurance. Their temperament is alert, dependable, and intelligent. Above all, they are companion dogs.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for Miniature Schnauzers is easy and doesn’t require much effort. Their coat can be trimmed using clippers or with a technique called stripping, which involves a fine and shortening effect using a special tool called a stripping knife.

Trim their nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn’t naturally wear them down to prevent painful tears and other issues. Check their ears weekly for redness or unpleasant odors that may indicate infection. A thorough weekly inspection will help you identify potential health problems early on.

Make pet care an enjoyable activity, complemented with praise and treats, which will pave the way for easy veterinary check-ups and other procedures as they grow.

Standard Schnauzers have a thick, wiry outer coat. Periodic baths and weekly grooming with a horsehair mitt or deshedding glove will help keep it in great condition.

It’s important to monitor their diet, recommended at 2 to 3 cups of high-quality food that meets their needs. Due to their activity level, they may require more energy. Treats can be helpful in training, but excessive amounts can lead to obesity. If you have any questions about your dog’s weight or diet, it’s advisable to discuss them with your veterinarian. Fresh, clean water should always be available.

Training and Education

The Mittelschnauzer is a very intelligent, assertive, and energetic dog that is easy to train and obedient. However, they have an independent nature and may ignore commands if they do not feel like complying. Thus, positive reinforcement and gentle corrections work better than harsh and strict methods during their training.

Standard Schnauzers require at least an hour of active activity. These energetic dogs need to be walked regularly three times a day for about 20 minutes each time. They thrive when they have activities and space to run, as they enjoy vigorous activities that match their energy level and enthusiasm. Generally, Schnauzers are well-suited for active families and those who enjoy playing with dogs.

The Mittelschnauzer easily adapts to the lifestyle of its family and shows a particular preference for daily walks outdoors. Living in a city presents no difficulties for them, and they happily find their place even in small apartments. However, to become an ideal companion for other four-legged friends, early socialization and introduction to other family members are necessary.

Although Schnauzers are excellent hunters of mice, they are not direct hunting dogs. This makes them pleasant companions for outdoor walks. However, it is worth noting that the Mittelschnauzer may have a tendency to bark and show assertiveness towards other dogs. It is important to emphasize that even inexperienced or elderly individuals will find it easy to manage this breed. At Zoonyka, you will find only verified offers with a health guarantee.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Mittel Schnauzer puppy is a responsible and exciting process that requires careful consideration and awareness. Mittel Schnauzers, with their elegant appearance and vibrant personality, make excellent companions, but before making a decision, several important aspects should be taken into account.

First of all, it is essential to conduct thorough research on the Mittel Schnauzer breed. Familiarize yourself with their history, character traits, sizes, and care requirements. This will help you understand how well a Mittel Schnauzer fits your lifestyle and expectations for a future pet.

Once you decide that a Mittel Schnauzer is your choice, look for a reputable breeder. The best breeders monitor the health and temperament of their dogs, provide useful information about the lineage, and support new owners.

Remember that the health of the puppy’s parents is a key factor. Ask the breeder for health information about both parents and any medical tests they have undergone. This can help prevent potential issues in the future.

Pay attention to the temperament of each puppy. If you’re looking for an active companion for sports or long walks, choose the more playful puppies. If you need a calm pet for apartment living, consider puppies that show more balanced character traits.

When selecting a Mittel Schnauzer puppy, observe how closely they conform to breed standards. Proper proportions, coat color, and head shape-these aspects are all important to ensure your future pet meets breed standards.Do not hesitate to ask the breeder questions. They can provide valuable advice on the care, feeding, and training of a Mittel Schnauzer. The breeder can also share insights about the personality of each puppy and help you choose one that fits your criteria.Choosing a Mittel Schnauzer puppy is a significant step that will determine your future with your pet. With careful consideration and appropriate research, you can find the ideal companion to bring joy, affection, and loyalty into your life.If you are looking to buy a Schnauzer, you should seek a breeder who is a member of the Pincher-Schnauzer Club of 1895. If you’re lucky, you may also find your medium or standard Schnauzer at a local animal shelter. Please do not purchase a Schnauzer online, as there is a very high risk that the puppy may come from a disreputable dog dealer or breeder.The Mittel Schnauzer is a classic German dog breed. It is an ideal companion and family

Health and Diseases

Caring for a dog’s health is an important aspect of responsible ownership, and the breed Standard Schnauzer is no exception. These elegant dogs, with their distinctive appearance and intelligence, require special attention to their physical and mental well-being. Let’s look at the main aspects of health and possible diseases that can affect Standard Schnauzers.

Health of Standard Schnauzers

When choosing a Standard Schnauzer puppy, it’s important to pay attention to the pedigree and any medical tests performed on the parents. This can help prevent potential genetic diseases and ensure the health of the puppy’s ancestors.

Regular visits to the veterinarian are an integral part of caring for a Standard Schnauzer’s health. Routine medical check-ups can help identify issues early and take necessary action.

Standard Schnauzers are energetic dogs, and maintaining their health requires activity. Regular walks, exercise, and playtime help keep them in good physical shape and prevent obesity.

The health of a Standard Schnauzer largely depends on a high-quality and balanced diet. Choosing the right food that meets the breed’s needs can help maintain their physical and mental well-being.Diseases of Standard SchnauzersHypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart disease that can affect Standard Schnauzers. Symptoms may include fatigue, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Regular veterinary visits and medical examinations can aid in the early detection and management of this condition.Pancreatitis is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas. It may manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Following a proper diet and medical supervision can help prevent pancreatitis.Due to their fur, Standard Schnauzers may be prone to various skin diseases, such as dermatitis. Regular grooming and hygiene can help prevent these issues.Caring for a Standard Schnauzer’s health requires attention, love, and a systematic approach. Regular medical check-ups, an active lifestyle, proper nutrition, and attention to the breed’s needs can ensure long and happy years with your loyal four-legged friend.Veterinary care is essential for maintaining excellent