About the Miniature Schnauzer Breed

The miniature schnauzer was created by breeding between the Standard Schnauzer, the Affenpincher and perhaps the Poodle. The schnauzer was originally from Germany and named after the word for muzzle (schnauze). The breed was known for killing rodents but now is in demand for their companionship.

According to AKC, the Miniature Schnauzer is in the Terrier Group and considered a small breed adult dog who is squarely proportioned with a long head, bushy beard and eyebrows. The eyes are dark in color and oval. The nose is black and the V-shaped ears fold forward when natural or cropped ears are pointed and stand straight up. The height is 12 to 14 inches and weight is between 14 to 18 pounds. There are only three acceptable colors: salt and pepper, black, and black and silver. They have two coats of which the main coat carries the color and is wirery in texture and the second coat is soft and called the undercoat. Show dogs have to be stripped to keep the wirery coat whereas the pet dogs are clipped which makes the top coat somewhat soft eventually. The legs are straight, chest, skirt, and head are scissored to liking length of coat. Showing a miniature schnauzer takes work and knowledge of the standard. A proper show dog is groomed to meet the standard as close as possible.

Miniature Schnauzers are playful, happy and alert. They are bright eyed, loving, intelligent and more trainable then many Terrier breeds. Miniature Schnauzers like children and demand time and companionship from owner. Can be feisty with other dogs inorder(remove inorder) to put on a show of superiority without intending to fight but this behavior can be dangerous because they will challenge even the large dogs. They are little dogs with big hearts. Since the temperament of this breed can be quite variable, select a puppy from parents whose temperaments you enjoy.

A word to the wise when buying a dog. Avoid newspaper ads, puppy mills and pet shops. Miniature Schnauzers are one of the most popular terrier breeds and unscrupulous or careless breeders can take advantage of the demand to offer inferior animals. Select a puppy from a reputable breeder near where you live, if possible. Some lines are prone to diseases so be careful. Don't overfeed as the breed tends to put on weight easily. A good watchdog and a fine dog for traveling. The miniature schnauzer is virtually non-shedding and therefore is easy on allergy sufferers.