Description:  A sturdily built, robust, energetic and affectionate dog breed.  This hearty breed is square-shaped in proportion with plenty of muscle and bone.  It has a quick, powerful stride, alert attitude and an intense look.  Its coat is thick and wiry colored in solid black, or black and gray with silver-white furnishings. It is well recognized for its whiskers, moustache, and bushy eyebrows. Please note: Miniature Schnauzers also come in solid white, this color would be disqualified in the AKC show ring.

Country of Origin:  The Miniature Schnauzer is of  German origin.

Height:  Up to 14 inches at the shoulder for either sex.  

Weight:  13 to 15 pounds.

Recommended Maintenance:  Miniature Schnauzers have harsh, wiry outer coats with dense under coat which needs regular attention. Daily brushing is required to keep the coat from matting.  Professional grooming and shaping should be done every season as well.  Trim around the eyes and ears as needed, and clean its long whiskers after meals.  This energetic breed needs vigorous exercise daily, either a long walk or a romp in a safe area.  It can also do well in an apartment as long as adequate exercise is provided.  Although they can be stubborn, schnauzers are quick learners with a willingness to please their owners.  Training should be consistent and it readily responds to its master's voice.   

Temperament: The schnauzer is an active breed that is an inquisitive, playful and affectionate breed.  It is highly intelligent resulting in a personality that can be clever, stubborn and mischievous.  Intelligent and easily trained, it does well in obedience, and on the home front it makes a super watchdog that is devoted to its family.  It is great with children and other pets. It can be a barker.

Health Concerns: The Miniature Schnauzer is susceptible to liver disease, kidney stones, skin disorders, cysts and eye problems.

Life Expectancy: The expected life span of the Miniature Schnauzer is 12-15 years.

Living Environment: Miniature Schnauzers are suitable for both city and country living. Miniature Schnauzers do better in a house than in an apartment because this breed can be noisy.

AKC Group: The Miniature Schnauzer is in the terrier group.