AKC Breed Standards
The American Kennel Club helps to maintain breed integrity for all purebred dogs.
The Mission Statement for the American Kennel Club (AKC) reads The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Founded in 1884, the AKC® and its affiliated organizations advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership. What does that mean to me and you? Simple: As a registered dog breeder, it means I will only breed to attain the best dogs that uphold the strict guidelines set forth by the American Kennel Club.
BREED STANDARDS
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 an alert, active disposition.
Size, Proportion, Substance
Size - From 12 to 14 inches. He is sturdily built, nearly square in proportion of body length to height with plenty of bone. Disqualifications - Dogs or bitches under 12 inches or over 14 inches.
History of the Miniature Schnauzer
History of the Miniature SchnauzerMini Schnauzers were originally bred to be farm dogs in Germany to keep vermin such as rats out of the dwelling areas, especially barns. In the earlier stages of developing the breed, several small types of dog were employed in cross breeding experiments in order to reduce the size of the Standard Schnauzer, with the ultimate goal of creating a perfect duplicate in a miniature size.
The oldest Miniature Schnauzer ever recorded was a pure black female named Findel, who was whelped in October of 1888. There was still much deviation back then in the breed standard, though. Of the first eight females to be registered, only half were of the now acceptable AKC colors, which are black, black and silver, and also salt and pepper.
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WHY CROP? Although cropping the ears of a Miniature Schnauzer is often looked upon as an aesthetic alteration, there is also a medical reason for cropping the ears. Miniature Schnauzers with uncropped ears are prone to ear infections and deafness later in life if the ears are not checked regularly or dried out after swimming- AKC |
Link to More AKC Miniature Schnauzer Breed Standards