Appearance

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog with a sturdy and square build. The body has a deep and broad chest, a strong and straight top-line that is higher at the front, very straight and rigid front legs and a small, docked upright tail. The long head has a prominent muzzle, forward folding or cropped upright angular ears, dark elliptical eyes, a dark nose, and a characteristic bushy beard, moustache and eyebrows. The coat is harsh and wiry, and the coloring tends to be black, white, a salt and pepper combination, or black and silver.

History

The Miniature Schnauzer originated in 19th-century Germany. Originally intended to keep rats out of barns, they were derived from a mix of Standard Schnauzers, Affenpinschers and possibly Miniature Pinschers. The first Miniature Schnauzer on record appeared in 1888 and their first exhibition came in 1889. They began to be bred in the U.S. in 1925 and in 1933 the American Miniature Schnauzer Club was formed.