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Miniature SchnauzerPopular Breed
While the breed has traditionally been less well known in the UK, it is becoming more popular year on year, as news of these little dogs with the big personality spreads. It is currently 13th in the Top 20 Breeds, according to The Kennel Club (UK). The Mini has found its way into the hearts of countless dog lovers all over the world.
Stylish good looks combined with a lively, often cheeky personality and devotion to their human companions have made the Miniature Schnauzer a popular choice. Many owners have more than one, as Minis enjoy companionship and often do well with other Minis. These dogs are sociable creatures and don't appreciate being left alone in the house for long periods. They are very adaptable dogs, suitable for families, single people and the elderly. They are happy provided they are involved in everything going on. Left alone all day, they can become sad or depressed. New colors of Miniatures are becoming increasingly popular in the USA, particularly white Schnauzers, despite the fact that they are not recognised by the AKC. Parti Schnauzers, which are two or more colors including white, are also gaining in popularity, as are teacup and toy schnauzers, which are smaller versions of the Mini. If you do decide to go for a non-registered Miniature puppy, we strongly recommend that you seek out a good, responsible breeder to prevent heartache further down the line with health or temperament problems caused by poor breeding. Non Shedding Incidentally, the most popular dog breed in all 3 countries is the Labrador Retriever. However, the Miniature has two big advantages over the hairy retriever - The breed is non shedding and hypoallergenic
It’s true. Our mini Max sheds almost no hair. When friends visit with their dogs, I find I’m cleaning up dog hairs around the house for months afterwards. History
The modern Miniature was recognized as a breed in Germany in 1880. The first ones arrived in the United States in 1924 and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club two years later. Read how the breed got its unusual name and its fascinating history. Appearance This is a small, robust dog with a smart appearance. Like all Schnauzers it is square in shape with the height at the shoulders being almost the same as length of the body. With its bushy eyebrows and trademark moustache and beard, the Miniature Schnauzer is an instantly recognizable breed. There are a variety of colors including white - but many of these are not recognised. There are only 3 colors accepted by the AKC and UK breed standard. These are: Salt and Pepper - Solid Black - Black and Silver Breed Characteristics
In the USA and Canada, the Miniature Schnauzer is classed as a Terrier. In the UK the breed comes under the Utility Group.
In North America it is common to have both the ears and tail cropped. For showing, the dog must have a docked tail and can have cropped or natural ears.
Dogs born prior to that with docked tails are accepted in the show ring. It is also illegal to crop the dog’s ears in the UK.
In continental Europe, most Schnauzers are left natural with long tails and floppy ears. < For a full list of breed standards, follow these links:
American Kennel Club Miniature Schnauzer Breed Standard
Mini Schnauzer - Temperament and Character
Top Ten Tips for Finding Good Breeders
Schnauzers - Hypoallergenic and Non Shedding Schnauzer Colors – the Great Debate
Schnauzermania Store for gifts and pet products
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Since April 2007 it has been illegal to dock any dog’s tail - except for working gundogs – in the UK. AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AS PRINTED BOOK AND KINDLE! The definitive manual for owners of Miniature Schnauzers, Giants and Standard Schnauzers
"The Schnauzer Handbook is brilliant and covers almost all you want to know about the breed," Michele L, Bournemouth
"A thoroughly interesting and entertaining book. There’s hardly anything about schnauzers that isn’t in here - it even made me smile!" J. Garrard, Ormond Beach, Florida