Schnauzer

A Schnauzer is a German breed of dog. The term comes from the German word for snout because of the dog's distinctly furry muzzles. The Miniature Schnauzer is the result of crossing the Standard Schnauzer with Affenpinschers and Poodles. Kennel clubs generally subdivide these dogs into three breeds by size:

• Miniature Schnauzer: Less than 15 inches tall at the shoulder
• Standard Schnauzer: Females 17-19 Inches, Males 18-20 inches
• Giant Schnauzer 23.5- 25.5 Inches

Distinct breeds today, originating from the Standard of the past, the three share some common features such as intelligence, alertness, strong sense of smell, and loyalty to family. It can live up to 15 or more years. All three varieties come in salt and pepper and black and the miniature schnauzers come in one additional color, silver. In the American and Canadian kennel club only salt and pepper, black, and silver are recognized colors for miniature schnauzers but in Europe white is now recognized as well. A common name for a schnauzer is Björki.