Originally from Germany, the Miniature Schnauzer was bred to keep rats and mice out of the barn yard. This breed was bred down from the Standard Schnauzer using the Affenpinscher, Poodle and Miniature Pinscher. Their goal was a smaller version of the Standard Schnauzer. As with many experiments, there were a few off spring of varying colors that were not desirable. When a parti color or white puppy was created, they just removed them from the breeding stock in an attempt to eliminate the unwanted colors. Miniature Schnauzer breeders will tell you that the desired colors are salt and pepper, black and silver or just black. Occasionally you will see a parti color or white dog which is not recognized in some organizations.

This breed is a small dog measuring twelve to fourteen inches tall and eleven to eighteen pounds in weight. They tend to be easy to train and are generally good with children. Miniature Schnauzer breeders agree that this dog is not a random barker. It reserves this for alerting its owner to strangers or to say hi to its family. This makes them a good choice as a guard dog. They will alert their owners of a stranger by vocal means and usually does not demonstrate any physical contact while guarding. These dogs are fun loving and playful. But if they do not get the exercise and attention they require, can create their own fun (or mess).

Early socialization is important for this dog. Not only with humans and other dogs, but if your family has other small pets, this dog needs to be introduced to them at an early age. Because they are very prey oriented, especially toward smaller animals, they my \’hunt\’ or attack birds, rodents or maybe even cats. This urge may be curbed but many Miniature Schnauzer breeders will probably suggest that you not own any other small vermin like pets if you choose to have a Miniature Schnauzer as part of your family.

The AKC first recognized the Miniature Schnauzer in 1926. They do have fairly strict standards as far as the looks of a Miniature Schnauzer. The official colors include salt and pepper, silver and black and black. They have naturally forward bending ears with a long head. Their face is trimmed into a thick bushy beard, and mustache. They have two coats, the first somewhat wiry, while the second coat is softer. Although, most Miniature Schnauzer breeders will state that they are not a shedding dog, it has been noted that there is a small amount of shedding that goes along with this breed. If you’re looking for a small, energetic, but obedient pet, the Miniature Schnauzer will fit your bill.