A Miniature Schnauzer is full of life. An extrovert, he loves to be in the thick of the family action. He may even run up to you while you're sitting down and throw his paws around your neck. He wants to touch you and be next to you all the time, and you can bet he'll want to sleep plastered to your side.

A bit of a spitfire, the Miniature Schnauzer is a terrier--that means he's full of himself. He's a feisty type A and his work involves amusing himself. He is not aloof or independent but needs to be with people, and what's more, he wants to be in close physical contact. (Your lap is no longer your own.)

He's very intelligent, which makes training easy, but it also means he's a master of manipulation. That combined with his stubbornness will keep you on your toes. He's not as feisty as some terriers, however, nor as dog-aggressive.

As with every dog, the Miniature Schnauzer needs early socialization--exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences--when they're young. Socialization helps ensure that your Miniature Schnauzer puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.

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