GENERAL APPEARANCE: The Miniature Schnauzer is a robust, active dog of terrier type, resembling his larger cousin, the Standard Schnauzer, in general appearance, and of alert, active disposition. He is sturdily built, nearly square in proportion of body length to height, with plenty of bone, and without any suggestion of toyishness. Originally bred as a dual purpose dog, keeping the barn and farm yard clear of vermin and warning of intruders during the day and being a cozy up companion with the family at night. Miniature Schnauzers are a safe choice for people or families with allergies. They are non-shedding and considered hypo-allergenic.
TEMPERAMENT: The typical Miniature Schnauzer is alert and spirited, yet obedient to command. He is friendly, intelligent and willing to please. He should never be over-aggressive or timid. They are easy to train and eager to learn. Miniature Schnauzers excel in canine sports and make great agility and rally dogs, they love flyball and, of course, are among the best at Barn Hunt. Their most amazing skill is being a best friend to a human. If they are raised with children they will be devoted to them and will put their lives on the line for them. Loyal to the end.
SIZE: From 12-14 inches or 30-36 cm. Anything under or anything over is considered a serious fault.
COLOUR: The recognized colours are salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black. The typical colour is salt and pepper in shades of grey; tan shading is permissible. The salt and pepper mixture fades out to light grey or silver white in the eyebrows, whiskers cheeks, under throat, across chest, under tail, leg furnishings, under body, and inside legs. The light underbody hair is not to rise higher on the sides of the body than the front elbows. The black and silvers follow the same pattern as the salt and peppers. The entire salt and pepper section must be black. Black is the only solid colour allowed. It must be a true black with no grey hairs and no brown tinge except where the whiskers may have become discoloured. A small white spot on the chest is permitted, not to exceed one inch in diameter. Any other colours would most certainly be a result of cross-breeding with a different breed. Nose must be black.
GROOMING: The Miniature Schnauzer requires regular maintenance and should be combed thoroughly 1 or 2 times a week and should have a full professional grooming every 8-10 weeks to keep him looking his best.
GENERAL: The Miniature Schnauzer loves to eat and are known for their gluttony. It is very important to keep them on a simple, low protein/low fat diet and a good quality kibble is best. Human food is discouraged. A great dog to curl up and watch TV with they are also always up for a walk, hike or run or some fun on the agility course. They should be on a leash or contained in a fenced area as if they see a squirrel or something fun & interesting they will be off to investigate.