The Schnauzer, as one might expect from the name, is definitely of German origin. The German word "schnauzer" means "muzzle". In Germany today there are three recognized Schnauzers, the Giant, the Standard and the Miniature. Among the characteristics that the three Schnauzers have in common is the distinctive look of the head, which has a beard and mustache and heavy brows of hair over the eyes. The body structure is quite square in appearance. The coat is "wire-haired" and harsh, a typical terrier type of coat which is stripped since it will not shed naturally. The colors of salt and pepper or black are most common. The purposes of all three dogs are quite different.