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Miniature Schnauzer

German in origin, the Miniature Schnauzer is a smart little dog derived from the Schnauzer, reduced in size, it is believed, by crossing with the Affenpinscher.  This is the smallest of the Schnauzers, the others being the medium sized dog, known simply as the Schnauzer in the UK, but the Standard Schnauzer elsewhere, and the Giant Schnauzer.  The breed name came from the winning dog in the Wire-Haired Pinscher (meaning terrier) class at the International Show in Hanover in 1879 and refers to his foreface, 'schnauze' meaning muzzle.

Dogs resembling the Schnauzer have long been popular in Germany and in the 16th and 17th centuries Durer and Rembrandt depicted dogs who were recognisably of Schnauzer type.  His terrier background means that he is an excellent ratter and although he demonstrates some of the terrier characteristics of being on his toes and ready to defend himself against all-comers, he is primarily a stylish little companion who makes an excellent family dog.

His coat needs stripping twice a year, though most people will find it more convenient to have it clipped, and between clips he can be kept neat and tidy with a comb through his facial and leg furnishings. Permitted colours are all pepper and salt colours in even proportions, black or black and silver.  Heights should be up to 14" for dogs and it is important that he looks sturdily built and robust with no suggestion of the Toy about him.

Click here to read the Miniature Schnauzer Breed Standard.

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Selected Books

The time to make sure that the Miniature Schnauzer is the right breed for you is before you bring him home. If you and your dog are going to be a good match speak to breeders, Breed Clubs, and generally find out as much as you can about the breed.

Understanding dog psychology, and what his motivations are will save a lot of confusion and misunderstandings for both you and him. Many mistakes can be avoided, and quick solutions reached if you have the basics of puppy training to guide you through all the early settling in difficulties.  It helps, too, to have some idea of basic healthcare so you can make informed judgements about whether a visit to the vet is necessary or if there is a simple remedy.  For example, many cases of upset tummies are best cured by 24 hour starvation.  The books we have chosen will be able to guide you as to whether your dog can be treated at home, or a visit to the surgery is necessary.

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Miniature Schnauzer Breed Clubs

• NORTHERN SCHNAUZER CLUB
• SCHNAUZER CLUB OF GB

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Miniature Schnauzer Rescue and Rehoming

Contact a Breed Club. They should all be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own Schnauzer, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.

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Miniature Schnauzer Breeders

Gainsfield Miniature Schnauzers have quality Pepper and Salt dog puppies, ready now. Born 20 December 2007, they are KC registered, vaccinated, eye tested and wormed. They will have a Veterinary Health Check Certificate, Puppy Pack and six weeks PetPlan insurance. Phone Miss J Beardall on 01427 811569 (Gainsborough, Lincolnshire) for more details.

• Boweslyon 
• Risepark 
• Caldbeck
• Rillaton 
• Tamodan 

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If you are looking for a puppy contact the Breed Clubs and the Breeders listed and visit the puppyfinder website where there is a great deal of information on hereditary conditions.  If you are a Breeder and wish to advertise your puppies puppyfinder is an excellent showcase.