The Miniature Schnauzer originated in Germany in the early nineteenth
century. This type of breed was created in order to "bring down" the
size of the Standard Schnauzer. The goal was to make a miniature version
of the Standard Schnauzer. The Affenpinchser and Miniature Pincheser
were breed together and that is how the Miniature Schnauzer got its
mismatched colorings. Many breeders will not breed a white dog with another
type of dog to prevent these so-called "part" colorings. Some people
would not have their Miniature Schnauzer any other way.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a wonderful dog that is a mixture of pepper,
salt, black and silver. The Miniature Schnauzer only weighs fifteen
pounds and reaches a maximum height of twelve inches. The top coat of the
Miniature Schnauzer is hard and very coarse but the undercoat is
incredibly soft. The coat of the Miniature Schnauzer needs a lot of grooming
performed. The Miniature Schnauzer's coat must be kept clean and
untangled. This is a non-sporting type of dog that has a life expectancy of
fourteen years.

The downside to owning a Miniature Schnauzer is that this type of dog
can not be trusted around small pets. A Miniature Schnauzer was once
used as a rat hunter and it seems that this is a natural instinct for a
Miniature Schnauzer to attack a pet small in size. Otherwise a Miniature
Schnauzer does well with children and larger pets. It is usually best
in the Miniature Schnauzer has grown up with the children and other
pets. The Miniature Schnauzer does best when kept indoors.

This type of dog is usually uneasy around guests at first but will
eventually warm up to them. A Miniature Schnauzer once comfortable in its
surroundings is a warm, loving and loyal dog. This type of dog is a
great addition to any home.