Group 2 · Pinschers & molossoids
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the three Schnauzers and comes from Germany, where it caught rats on farms. It is bright, lively and watchful, with the typical beard and eyebrows.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Dwergschnauzer by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 4 examinations:
- 4 DNA tests
The breeding programme also recommends 4 further examinations.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (4)
-
Factor VII deficiency (F7def)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- F7: c.407G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- CARD9: c.493_495del
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- AMHR2: c.262C>T
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Progressive retinal atrophy – progressive rod-cone degeneration (Prcd-PRA)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- PRCD: c.5G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
Recommended examinations (4)
-
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- SOD1: c.118G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Demyelinating polyneuropathy (DP)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- SBF2: c.2363+1G>T
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Exercise-induced collapse (EIC)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- DNM1: c.767G>T
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Primary lens luxation (PLL)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- ADAMTS17: c.1473+1G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Dwergschnauzer, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 30/05/2025.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Factor VII deficiency (F7def), Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), Persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS) and Progressive retinal atrophy – progressive rod-cone degeneration (Prcd-PRA). The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Degenerative myelopathy (DM), Demyelinating polyneuropathy (DP), Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) and Primary lens luxation (PLL). A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Miniature Schnauzer needs daily walks and some playful challenge. Its wiry coat sheds little, but needs regular trimming or hand-stripping and a weekly brush.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
The Miniature Schnauzer is clever and self-assured, and likes to announce everything by barking. Consistent training and early socialisation help it learn to react calmly.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
