Breed Description
Miniature Schnauzers are wonderful little dogs that are intelligent, loving, playful companions and SO easy to live with. They feel equally at home living in the city or out in the country. This devoted dog is happy to curl up on your lap or accompany you for a leisurely walk in the park.
The breed standard calls for them to be relatively equal in length and height (from 12" to 14" tall), the average weight being about 18 pounds. They do not shed, which is a wonderful attribute if you have ever lived with a dog that does. In addition, many people that have exhibited allergic symptoms to other breeds of dogs do not have a problem with Miniature Schnauzers.
The American Miniature Schnauzer Club recognizes three colors of Miniature Schnauzers. These are the only three colors that may be shown at AKC Sanctioned Shows in the United States. The three accepted colors are --
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Salt and Pepper -- the most common color variety. If the dog is in a plucked coat, the body hair should be banded, giving the salt and pepper appearance. A clipped coat is usually silvery-gray and lightens as the dog ages. The leg hair and whiskers are white. |
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Black and Silver -- the body coat is solid black and the leg hair and whiskers are white. |
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Black -- the whole dog is black. A small patch of white is permitted on the front chest of the dog. |
Miniature Schnauzers love the out-of-doors but must live inside. After all, they are part of the family. Most of them are not overly fond of the rain but love to run in the snow. Schnauzers enjoy playing with each other but are happiest when they are with you, their owner. It does not take a puppy long to adjust to its new home once it leaves its siblings.
Because Miniature Schnauzers are so family oriented, it is best to socialize them at a young age. The more they experience as youngsters (sounds, sights, adults, children) the better. Many dog clubs now offer puppy classes which are great for the dogs and also help the owners and dogs bond to each other. Miniature Schnauzers do extremely well in obedience training which is also great fun for the whole family.
Copyright © 1999 Attaway Miniature Schnauzers. All rights reserved.
Revised: January 28, 2008