DOG BREED #6 – Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers, with their distinctive beards and boundless energy, are beloved for their spirited personalities and affectionate nature. These lively dogs make wonderful companions, but their well-being requires special attention to certain health considerations and care.

Five Fun Facts

General Care

Schnauzers have a double coat, with a soft undercoat and a thicker outer coat. For dogs in Hong Kong, the outer coat should be brushed at least twice weekly to avoid tangles, mats and skin problems, and clipped and groomed at least every few months.

Schnauzers are also active and athletic, and need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. We would suggest at least two walks per day of around 30 minutes, with a couple of toilet breaks between. Remember to be careful in the hot weather in Hong Kong – it’s easy for dogs to overheat and they shouldn’t be walked in the middle of the day during hot periods.

Training and Socialisation

Schnauzers are an intelligent breed, but they can also be independent, headstrong, and easily distracted, so you need to be patient, consistent, and positive with your training methods.

Start with basic commands such as '’sit’ and ‘stay' and then build, using positive reinforcement such as treats, pats, and praise. House training should be started at around 12 weeks, and many owners find crate training a successful and gentle method.

Socialisation is also important for Mini Schnauzers. we would recommend getting them out and about and playing with other suitable pups as soon as they’ve had their vaccinations.

Health Considerations

Mini Schnauzers are generally healthy dogs, but there are a few areas to watch for. The warm, humid climate in Hong Kong can predispose Schnauzers to skin problems, and we would recommend using a medicated skin shampoo such as Malaseb. Two medical issues that Schnauzers are predisposed to are bladder stones and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas in the abdomen). Both of these conditions are partly due to poor nutrition, so Schnauzers should always be fed a healthy, high-quality diet. 

The Bottom Line

Mini Schnauzers tick a lot of the boxes for being a great dog for Hong Kong. They’re small yet sturdy; always ready for action but also just as happy to relax at home with the family; and generally good in social situations and with other dogs. And for this reason, they’ve reached #6 on our HK most popular breeds list.