The Miniature Schnauzer is a breed of small dog of the Schnauzer type that originated in Germany in the mid-to-late 19th century. Miniature Schnauzers developed from crosses between the Standard Schnauzer and one or more smaller breeds such as the Poodle, Miniature Pinscher, or Affenpinscher. The breed remains one of the most popular, and is currently the 10th most popular breed in the U.S.
Appearance
Miniature Schnauzers are quite distinctive in appearance. They should be compact, muscular, and be "square" in build (the height at the withers should be the same as the length of the body). They have long beards, eyebrows, and feathering on the legs. In the USA, ears are sometimes cropped to stand upright and the tail is normally docked short. British Schnauzers have uncropped ears, as ear cropping is illegal in the United Kingdom. Since April 2007, docking has also been banned in the UK.
Their coats are wiry (when hand-stripped,) and do not shed, which adds to their appeal as house pets. Miniature Schnauzers that are shown at dog shows needs to be hand-stripped to achieve the wiry texture that the breed standard calls for. Pets that are not shown, can be clippered. This will however turn the coat soft and make the dog lose color. The AKC, CKC and the KC (UK) recognizes only three colours: black, salt and pepper, and black and silver. The FCI, however, also recognizes white Miniature Schnauzers. Some breeders cross-breed Miniature Schnauzers with other breeds to try and introduce new colours, a practice that is discouraged by all major Schnauzer breed clubs.
Height is 12 to 15 inches (30.5 to 38 cm) at the withers (American standard) or 30-35cm (FCI, German standard) at the withers, and they generally weigh 11 to 20 pounds (4.5 to 7 kg).
Temperament
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their lively personality and mischievous sense of humor. They are also highly loyal to their owner and can be very energetic, but if not given proper exercise or a balanced diet, they will gain weight very quickly.
Miniature Schnauzers are extremely vocal dogs, and are known for their barking. This is because they are excellent protectors of their home and will alert their owners to anyone that may be coming. However some dogs of the breed will bark at even the slightest noises. This amount of unnecessary barking can usually be controlled by training if the owner has patience with the dog. The Miniature Schnauzer is often guarded of strangers until the owners of the home welcome the guest, upon which they are typically very friendly to them. The breed is very good with children recognizing that they need gentle play.
Because a Miniature Schnauzer is one of the most intelligent breeds of dog, it can take commands and learn quickly, making them easy to train. However, Miniature Schnauzers require a great deal of attention and affection from their owner, regardless if they are to be used as show dogs or home pets. If not given affection on a regular basis the breed can become depressed, which can decrease their mental and physical health.
They can be very independent and have been known to have a naughty streak in them. They are practical jokers, but it is all in fun. They are highly playful dogs, and if not given the outlet required for their energy they can become a somewhat difficult breed.