About the Breed
Miniature Schnauzers are hardy dogs, originally bred to be ratters on German farms. They are alert, feisty animals of a suitable size to be good companions and eager to share your couch. They do not shed, so they often can be enjoyed by persons who are allergic to other breeds of dogs. They are good watch dogs, alerting to intruders, but are not given to mindless barking if properly trained.
Individuals interested in a quality dog from a reputable club member and/or show breeder will usually find that the breeder has made every effort to meet the specific temperament, size, color, and other physical standards set by the parent organization - The American Miniature Schnauzer Club. Such are the characteristics that a breeder's breeding stock is evaluated on at AKC-accredited dog shows.
A responsibly-bred Miniature Schnauzer in the United States will be one of three colors accepted by the AMSC:
- salt & pepper
- black & silver
- black
It will generally fall within the 12-inches to 14-inches height standard (measured at the shoulders). Please note that there is no accepted standard within the AMSC or the AKC allowing "toy" or "teacup" Miniature Schnauzers. These are often bred & sold by profiteering individuals who hope to take advantage of "fads" to prey upon the uninformed pet buyer. Likewise, dogs of colors other than the three mentioned above may also come from less-than-reputable breeders who simply wish to profit from what they may advertise as "rare" versions of the breed.
While there are a few health issues within some lines of the breed, a healthy pet purchased from a reputable breeder who has carefully researched pedigrees and bred only those dogs which seem most likely to reproduce healthy offspring can be expected to live a life of 12 to 16 years.
As noted in the breed standard, a "typical Miniature Schnauzer" is very alert and active, yet obedient to command. Miniature Schnauzers are extremely intelligent and quick to learn; they are most willing to please and do very well in performance activities such as agility, rally and obedience. They do need proper socialization and basic training in order to become valued family members and good neighbors.
Click here to see a gallery of champions of the past produced by MSCSC members.