The Schnauzer Puppy Reached Up. The Pony Leaned Down. Noses Met.
On a wooden floor in a cozy, cluttered room, a gray Miniature Schnauzer puppy with whiskers and bushy eyebrows reaches up to touch noses with Pebble the little tan pony. The pony has lowered her head all the way to the puppy's level, her ears turned forward and her forelock hanging down. A lamp glows in the corner, a basket of blankets sits on the floor, and a houseplant leans toward the window.
Miniature Schnauzer puppies are alert, spunky little dogs with wiry coats and distinctive eyebrows and beards. They are smart and often quick to bark at anything new, so a patient introduction goes a long way. Their wiry coats need regular grooming, and the beard should be cleaned after meals. Nose-to-nose sniffing is how animals say hello, and it is a good sign when both stay relaxed. A pony should never be left alone with a small dog, because even a friendly step can hurt. Your vet or trainer can give advice about safe introductions.
The puppy's whiskers are quivering, and the pony's nostrils flare slightly as they take each other in. For a moment, the whole room seems to be listening. It looks like a first hello between very different friends, one tiny and bearded, the other large and woolly. Neither seems afraid. It is a quiet, curious beginning, and the rest of the afternoon is wide open.
