The earliest records of the Miniature Schnauzer come from Germany in the late 1800s. They were originally bred as farm dogs to keep the rats and vermin out of the barn.

The breed was established by breeding the Standard Schnauzer with other smaller breeds such as the Affenpinscher, Miniature Pinscher, and even the Miniature Poodle. And, as breeders worked towards stabilizing the gene pool, mismarked, parti-colors, and white puppies were removed from the breeding programs.

The earliest recorded true Miniature Schnauzer was in 1888, and the first exhibition was in 1899. With their bold courage, the Miniature Schnauzer was originally used for guarding herds, small farms, and families.

As time passed, they were, also, used to hunt rats, because its small size was perfect to get into tight places to catch them.

The AKC accepted registration of the new breed in 1926, two years after they were introduced to the United States.

The Miniature Schnauzer is less than 15 inches tall at the shoulder.

Like the other two versions of the Schnauzer, the mini schnauzer has a harsh, wiry outer coat and a dense, soft under coat.

The coatcolor can vary between salt and pepper of gray, black, and white.

The schnauzer has minimal shedding concerns.

The hair on the face, is a little longer, to where it forms a beard at the muzzle. They have very long eyebrows.

Overall, Schnauzers are robust and sturdy dogs that are heavy for their height.

The Miniature Schnauzer is known for its lively personality, loyalty, and energy.

They are considered to be a spirited dog. The standards deems that the breed must be obedient, friendly, intelligent, and willing to please. Miniature Schnauzers should never be overly aggressive or timid.

Mini Schnauzers are not naturally aggressive dogs, but they should be fearless.

This schnauzer makes a great guard dog, as they tend to bark at anyone who may appear as a threat.

They are by nature great with children, as well, as they are highly playful. But remember to supervise any playtimes with younger children.

Miniature Schnauzers will do well living in an apartment, although at times they can be very active.

If they aren't given the proper exercise and a balanced diet, Miniature Schnauzers can gain weight easily.

But, for the most part the breed is relatively healthy and robust.

The more common health concerns include:

• Kidney stones
• Liver disease
• Skin disorders
• von Willebrand's disease
• Diabetes
• Liver ailments
• Cysts

The Miniature Schnauzer can, also, suffer from hereditary eye problems.

Pictures can be found at flickr.com.