Dog's Name & Age:
Barney 3 years old
In a Word, My Miniature Schnauzer Is…
Goofy, has a love/hate relationship with his docked tail.
Best Characteristics of the Breed
Affectionate, shares love with everyone in the family. A great companion.
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
He has a mind of his own, but we work with that.
When, Where and How I Got My Miniature Schnauzer
June 29, 2009 I found a small white dog in the neighborhood and I immediately listed him as found dog with the shelter and posters. He fit in with the family immediately. It wasn't until three weeks later lost dog posters showed up and it was Barney whose real name was Simon. Killed me to take him back. Two days later the owner called and said she was in danger of losing her house, already had a full size Schnauzer and did I want Barney. Definitely.
He got along well with my 18 yr old Yorkie/Chihuahua, who we lost this past Jan. and you'd think he lived with us always. He's also been a comfort with Bogie gone.
I'd Describe My Dog As…
Barney had a habit of peeing and pooping in the house when he first arrived although he had a doggy door in his other house. I worked with him on that, no scolding, just showing him he was better off outside. It took a few weeks, but now he loves going outside, when he didn't before. I work from home and he spends time in my office chair with me along with time snuggling with my mom in her easy chair. He loves to play and has a variety of toys that he drags around the house. And does what I call 'dinner and a show' when he drags out his huge green spider after dinner and humps it. I gathered he did this where he'd been before and have to admit it's really funny. Right now, you'd think he's always lived here and he's very social.
He also didn't like having his paws touched in the beginning. Now he loves to play batting his paws at me. It just took a little time and patience.
Lessons Learned
- I don't know about small children.
- Make sure the dog is socialized with others.
- Stubbor.n
- Very vocal but in a good way.
- Protective.
