The objective of the Miniature Schnauzer Club of Michigan is to advance the principals and scientific practices in the breeding of purebred Miniature Schnauzers; foster co-operation between breeder, owner, and veterinarian; encourage the exchange of information and experience among the club members and between show-giving clubs; to conduct sanctioned and licensed specialty shows and matches; and to encourage the adherence to the high standards of conduct and to the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club.

The Miniature Schnauzer is of German derivation and began its recorded history as a ratter, vermin hunter, and stable dog.

The adult Miniature Schnauzer should stand between 12 and 14 inches at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. The three approved colors are Salt & Pepper, Black & Silver and Black. Miniature Schnauzers have a double coat which is a wiry body coat when show trimmed or will be soft when pet trimmed with clippers. Leg and underbelly hair is shaped and longer than body coat and of course the eyebrows and beard that are so characteristic of the breed. Miniature Schnauzers don’t shed so are considered a “hypo allergenic” breed suitable for people with allergies to dog hair.

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The temperament of the Miniature Schnauzer should be alert, and spirited, yet obedient to command. He is friendly, intelligent and willing to please. They are extremely interactive and expressive dogs. The M.S. is easily trained, they will however, without the right guidance easily train their owners. They should never be over-aggressive or timid. They can be quite verbal but with training and proper socialization will be only an alarm and not a yappy nuisance.

General requirements of a Miniature Schnauzer would include approximately 1 cup of a quality dog food daily. Proper veterinary care and regular professional grooming (every 6-8 weeks). This breed does not shed but does require at least a weekly brushing of his beard, underbelly and leg furnishings to keep mats form forming in the hair. To make your Miniature Schnauzer a complete companion, one that is a pleasure to be around, dog training classes for proper socialization and behavior are recommended. The Miniature Schnauzer requires moderate exercise after it becomes an adult. The M.S. makes a nice family dog, being small enough to be a lap dog but robust and active enough for play with children. This breed is normally fine with other pets as well.

The Miniature Schnauzer is generally a healthy breed and long lived. Reported health problems; bladder and kidney disease, diabetes, pancreatitis, allergies, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Retinal Dysplasia (RD), cataracts, Juvenile Renal Dysplasia (JRD), liver shunts, Myotonia, and SARDS.

When considering a Miniature Schnauzer to purchase for a pet, ask the following questions:

Can you see one or both parents?

Can you see a copy of the pedigree?

Has the puppy had the proper vaccinations?

Do the parents have yearly eye checks? (by a V.O.)

If the seller does not have the puppy you want is he

or she willing to refer you to another reputable breeder?

Is the puppy's health guaranteed in writing? (especially

against congenital defects)

Don't forget to ASK YOURSELF:

Can you provide a clean, safe, healthy environment, proper food, veterinary care, and grooming?

Can you provide time for training and exercise and many years of love and attention?