The Miniature Schnauzer was known in its homeland, Germany, as the Zwergschnauzer. He like the Standard Schnauzer,
was a proficient ratter. He is not, as some fanciers believe, merely a smaller version of the Standard Schnauzer.
The most popular accepted dog to have been combined with the Standard Schnauzer to produce the Mini is the
Affenpinscher, and pictures from earlier times clearly bear this out. It was not until the 1920's that the first
Mini appeared in North America. The Miniature Schnauzers did not receive separate recognition as a breed until
late 1926 when registration as a breed was granted them. The same year the name was officially changed to Schnauzer.
All Schnauzers originally were shown in the Working Group, but Mini's were transferred to the Terrier Group in 1927.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a hearty, muscular little dog, should be 12" to 14" at the shoulder, and weigh 13 - 17 lbs.
He is sturdily built, nearly square in proportion of body length to height with plenty of bone, and without any suggestion
of toyishness.
EYES: should be small, dark brown, oval and deep set with keen expression.
EARS: (cropped or uncropped) should sit high on the skull and be moderate thickness.
HEAD: Strong & rectangular, with thick whiskers accentuating the rectangular shape of the head.
TEETH: Should be scissor bite. The upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth slightly.
BODY: Strong and well arched neck, blending into the shoulders, with a short deep body, ribs are well sprung and deep, extending well back to the loin. The topline should be straight with a high set carried tail which is docked. The forelegs should be straight and have good bone. The hindquarters have strong-muscled, slanting thighs, with sufficient angulation so that, in stance, the hocks extend beyond the tail. The feet should be short round (cat like) with thick, black pads.
There are only 3 colours that are recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club, and the American Kennel Club, which are:
Salt & Pepper, Black & Silver and Black. All other colours cannot be registered with these clubs. Both parents and puppy have to be registered with these clubs before they are considered purebred.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a robust little dog with a wonderful personality. They are very intelligent, excelling at agility and obedience. They are hypo-allergenic and in most cases people with allergies are able to have them as pets. They are a great family dog, wonderful with children, make great travelers, and are happy being with you whether it is jogging or just sitting on the couch watching TV. They can take over as 'pack leader' very quickly, so therefore I suggest obedience training with the whole family. They don't shed, but do require grooming approximately every 8 weeks, with weekly brushing in between. The Mini is a versatile little dog that looks in the mirror and sees a big dog, they have little fear and make a great all round pet.
