Schnauzer

This breed comes in three sizes, the Giant, Standard, and the Mini, the only difference being the size and weight.

Mini
Height: 30-36cm
Weight: 5-7kg

Giant
Height: Dogs 66-71cm, Bitches 58-66cm
Weight: Dogs 27-48kg, Bitches 25-34kg

Standard
Height: Dogs 46-51cm, Bitches 43-48cm
Weight: Dogs 14-20kg, Bitches 14-18kg

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, sturdily built, little dog. The body is square in proportion. The strong head is rectangular in shape. The width of the head gets slightly smaller from the years to the eyes. The deepest, small eyes are dark brown in colour. The ears are small and V-shaped folding close to the head. The tail is set high and carried erect. The Mini Schnauzer has a double coat. The outer coat is wiry and the undercoat is soft. The coat is clipped so it has a bushy beard, moustache and eyebrows. Coat colours include black, white, salt and pepper, and black and silver.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a German breed. During the years around the turn of the century, both smooth German Pinscher and coarse-haired Schnauzer pups appeared in the same litters. The German Pinscher Schnauzer Club initiated a policy requiring proof of three generations of pure coarse-haired Schnauzer coats for registration. This quickly helped set type and made them a distinct breed from the German Pinscher. These Schnauzers were given the name Standard Schnauzer. Miniature Schnauzers were developed by crossing small Standard Schnauzers, with the Affenpinscher and possibly the Poodle. The Schnauzer name is derived from the German word "Schnauze", which means "muzzle". It was used as a ratter and still retains the ability but is mostly a companion dog today. Some of Schnauzer's talents include hunting, tracking, ratter, watchdog, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.

The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent, loving, happy dog. They are energetic, playful and get along well with children, and like to be with their people. They are affectionate, keen, devoted, and docile. They make good companions and family pets. This breed makes a good watchdog and vermin hunter. An easy dog to travel with.

The wiry coat is not hard to groom, although it does need attention. Comb and brush daily with a short wire brush to prevent matting. To maintain the look of the Schnauzer, they need professional trimming for 6-8 weeks. Clean the whiskers after meals. On pet dogs, the coat is usually clipped short on the upper body and left somewhat longer on the underparts, legs, and head. This breed sheds little to no hair and is a good dog for allergy sufferers. These energetic dogs need obedience, daily long brisk walks or jogs, and love play sessions off the leash.