This Miniature Schnauzer Went Viral For The Most Adorable Reason
While schnauzers come in various types and sizes, the miniature schnauzer remains the most popular in the United States, ranking 18th on the American Kennel Club's list of popularity in 2024. It's easy to see why: Beyond its adorable scruff, the smart dog breed is known for its high energy, intelligence, affectionate nature, charismatic personality, and adaptability that enable it to thrive in both apartments and open spaces. With its popularity and abundant charm, the breed is perfect for online sharing and potential virality. For one little guy named Fritz, popularity has come thanks to his appearance, which people say is straight out of a Pixar movie.
Fritz's owner, who goes online as Mom, related in a TikTok post that this was not the only thing that her mini schnauzer got compared to. Many called him so cute that he must not be real, with some likening him to an adorable collectible like a Webkinz or a Build-A-Bear. Fritz and his equally cute brother, Alfie, have quickly built an online following, boasting more than 14,000 followers on TikTok and over 16,000 thousand on Instagram. Fritz's most popular post on TikTok has garnered over 2 million views.
@alfie.and.fritz Fritzy is better than therapy 🫶🥹 #dogsoftiktok #cutedog
In an Instagram post where Fritz's mom posed the question "How are you even real??" fans were quick to share their love of the adorable pooch, with one user saying, "So adorable! That's what you call instant love.. that little face." Another commented on his unreal appearance, stating, "Oh my goodness! So adorable! Looks like a little stuffed animal!" Fritz has the looks to be a future high-earning celebrity pet, but like any miniature schnauzer, the love of a good home seems to be his greatest reward.
What life with a miniature schnauzer is like
Miniature schnauzers are known to be a very affectionate breed, and Fritz the viral pup is no exception. A TikTok shows him cuddling up with his mom in various positions, with the post reading, "I'm so glad my little guy likes to cuddle because how could I NOT hold him all day?" To confirm that it's not just for the camera, a Reddit thread discussing when users first noticed the cuddly tendencies of the breed garnered many responses. This included a user who commented, "From day one! Got him when he was an eight-week-old potato, and he's just always needed to snuggle. He's not clingy, just snuggly. Won't hear me complaining!"
The breed can also be a long-term furry companion. The miniature schnauzer's lifespan ranges between 12 and 15 years, and it is generally considered a healthy breed. While they are prone to conditions (like any breed) including high cholesterol, cataracts, pancreatitis, and liver issues, they can experience long, happy, and healthy lives with their owners.
@alfie.and.fritz Nothing brings Fritz more joy than an open bathroom door #dogsoftiktok #fyp
Of course, it's not just cuddles; the intelligent breed can also get into mischief. Fritz loves stealing toilet paper when the bathroom door is left open and finding weird places to try to nestle himself into, like a toy chest or mixing bowl. Every dog is different, and every breed can be an adorable rabble-rouser or an affectionate hugger — sometimes both. Fritz certainly embodies the best traits of the mini schnauzer with his online virality, but any adopted dog deserves the love that comes with being the apple of an owner's eye.