The Miniature Schnauzer The Schnauzer originated in this country, Germany and acquired his name from the German words "Schnauze" (snout or muzzle) and "Schnauzbart" (moustache). As the name suggests, all three of the Schnauzer breeds are endowed with abundant facial furnishings (→ the Mini, the Standard & the Giant). By far the most popular of the three varieties, and a perfect scaled-down version of the other two, is the Miniature Schnauzer. He was developed as a small farm dog, in particular being used as a barnyard ratter. His temperament combines high spirits, absolute reliability, strength, endurance and vigour. Very friendly with everyone he knows and meets, including children, he nevertheless makes an excellent guard dog and watchdog when the occasion demands, as well as being an outstanding companion. Left in the rough (i.e. not trimmed or clipped), the Schnauzer has a fairly ragged, untidy appearance, but shaped and trimmed regulary he looks an absolute gem! Few breeds repay care and attention to grooming as much as the Miniature Schnauzer does. His neat size and clean habits make him the ideal dog for the home. The Mini-Schnauzer comes in 4 colours: pepper&salt, black, black&silver and white. These are the colours recognised by the VDH/FCI. The ideal height of the mini should be 30-35cm and the weight should be 4,5kg-7kg. The ears and tails are left 'intact', as tail docking has been forbidden in Germany since the 1.06.1998. and ear docking was stopped from the 01.01.1987. This breed does not shed hair and so is ideal for people with allergies.