They are highly playful dogs, and, if not given the outlet required for their energy, they can become bored and invent their own 'fun'. Miniature Schnauzers can compete in dog agility trials, obedience, showmanship, flyball, and tracking. Schnauzers have a high prey drive, which means they may chase other small animals and hence should not be off leash when not in a fenced area. Based on Stanley Coren's book The Intelligence of Dogs (2006) ranking methodology, the Miniature ranked 12th out of 140 breeds within 79 ranks on the ability to learn and obey new commands i.e. working and obedience intelligence, being grouped among 'excellent working dogs'. Additionally, experts ranked the Miniature as 5th among top 15 breeds at watchdog barking ability.