Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest variety of the Schnauzer group, originating in Germany, where the breed was formed in the late 19th century from small Pinschers and Standard Schnauzers. Initially, these wiry-coated and compact dogs were used as ratters and stable guards. Thanks to their endurance, intelligence, and distinctive appearance, the breed quickly gained popularity among urban residents. The first purposeful breeding programs appeared in the 1880s–1890s, aiming to create a reduced but fully functional copy of the Standard Schnauzer. By the early 20th century, the type was fixed, and the Miniature Schnauzer was recognized as an independent breed. Today it is known worldwide as an active, intelligent, and versatile companion.
General Appearance
The Miniature Schnauzer presents the impression of a sturdy, compact, and harmoniously built square-format dog. It combines small size with well-developed muscles, clean lines, and a defined breed structure. Distinctive elements of the appearance include a wiry beard, heavy eyebrows, and a rectangular head that emphasizes an alert, energetic expression. The topline is strong and level, the chest is deep, the limbs are straight and solid, and the movement is springy and free. The coat is harsh, dense, and trimmed to create a neat silhouette. Overall, the Miniature Schnauzer appears as a miniature but fully functional working dog with a lively temperament and confident presence.
Important Proportions
The Miniature Schnauzer must have a strictly square format: height at the withers equals the body length from shoulder joint to ischial tuberosity. The head is proportional to the body, approximately half the length of the back, with equal proportions of skull and muzzle. Chest depth reaches the elbows and equals about half the dog’s height. The neck length corresponds to the head length, ensuring balance and a proper head carriage. Limb proportions must support a square outline: elbow height is roughly half of the total height, and fore- and hind-angulation must be balanced. All proportions aim to create a harmonious, compact, and functional silhouette.
Behavior and Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer is an active, confident, and intelligent dog with a strong temperament and keen awareness. It combines liveliness and courage with steadiness and high trainability. Deeply attached to its family, friendly to people, yet alert with strangers, it retains the qualities of a reliable small watchdog. It possesses a strong sense of dignity and enjoys interaction, games, and work, requiring regular mental and physical stimulation. With proper socialization, it becomes obedient, attentive, and dependable, while maintaining the spirited independence characteristic of the breed.
Head
The head of the Miniature Schnauzer is rectangular, dry, and proportional to the body, with clean lines and a clearly defined breed type. The skull is moderately broad and flat, flowing into a strong but not coarse muzzle. The muzzle is elongated, with a straight nasal bridge, well filled under the eyes, and emphasized by the characteristic wiry beard. Lips are tight and darkly pigmented. Jaws are strong, with a full set of teeth and a scissor bite. Cheeks are smooth and not prominent. The overall expression is alert, energetic, and confident.
Facial Region
The facial region is defined by dry, clean lines and a pronounced breed structure. The muzzle is long and rectangular, filled throughout, without tapering or coarseness. The nose bridge is straight, with a black nose and open nostrils. Lips are thin, tight, and closed at the corners. Jaws are strong, with a well-defined chin emphasized by the beard. The area under the eyes is well formed and not hollow. The facial impression combines strength, cleanness, and typical Schnauzer character.
Eyes
The eyes are oval, dark, and medium-sized, set straight and moderately wide, giving an expression of attentiveness and lively intelligence. The gaze is alert and expressive. Eyelids are tight and darkly pigmented. The whites are not visible in normal head position. The placement of the eyes harmonizes with the head shape and heavy eyebrows that highlight the characteristic expression.
Ears
The ears are set high, small, V-shaped, with thin cartilage and good mobility. In natural form, they fold forward, lying close to the head with tips directed toward the temples. This shape enhances the alert expression. When attentive, the ears are highly mobile. In regions where cropping is permitted, cropped ears must be upright and symmetrical. Regardless of form, ears must not be large, heavy, or widely set.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, dry, strong, and elegantly arched, blending smoothly into a well-marked withers. The musculature is developed but not coarse. The upper line of the neck is slightly curved, creating a proud head carriage. Skin fits tightly without folds or dewlap. Proper neck length ensures balance and free movement.
Body
The body is compact, strong, and well balanced, with dry musculature. The topline is straight and firm; the withers are moderate, flowing into a short, strong back. The loin is firm and slightly arched. The croup is short, slightly sloping, and muscular. The chest is deep and oval, reaching the elbows, with moderately sprung ribs. The underline is slightly tucked up. The body must show compactness, strength, and functionality characteristic of a working miniature breed.
Tail
The tail is set high and carried in continuation of the topline, reflecting the breed’s confident temperament. In natural form, it may be straight or slightly sickle-shaped. In motion, it is active but not overly animated. In countries where docking is allowed, the tail may be shortened, but must remain proportional. It must not be thick at the base, overly short, or curled tightly.
Forequarters
Forelegs are straight, parallel, and strong, with dry musculature. Shoulder blades are long, well laid back, and close-fitting. The upper arm is equal in length, forming the correct angle for free movement. Elbows point straight back, neither turned out nor in. Forearms are straight and strong. Pasterns are short, firm, slightly springy. Feet are compact and round with strong toes and dark nails. Forequarters must show strength and stability in movement.
Hindquarters
Hind legs are well developed, strong, and muscular, providing powerful drive. Thighs are long and firm. Stifles are well angled. Lower thighs are strong and parallel when viewed from behind. Hocks are low, firm, and well formed. Metatarsi are short and vertical. Feet are compact with strong toes and dark nails. The hindquarters must deliver a strong, elastic push.
Gait / Movement
Movement is free, springy, and well coordinated, with a steady rhythm and good reach. Fore and hind limbs move straight, without crossing or deviation. Forelegs extend confidently; hind legs provide powerful drive. The back remains firm even at higher speed. The gait must demonstrate energy, balance, and functionality.
Coat
The coat is harsh, dense, and close-fitting, consisting of a wiry topcoat and a soft, moderate undercoat. The topcoat must protect against weather but not be overly coarse or wavy. The coat forms a clean silhouette. Typical eyebrows and a full beard emphasize breed type. Legs carry longer but structured hair. Proper trimming is essential to maintain hardness and outline. The coat must not be soft, silky, or curly.
Permissible Colors
Four classic colors are permitted: salt-and-pepper, black, black-and-silver, and white. Salt-and-pepper must show clear pigmentation and typical markings. Black must be deep and solid. Black-and-silver requires sharply defined silver markings on specified areas. White must be clean and well pigmented. Dirty tones, brownish shades, or irregular patterns are undesirable.
Size
The Miniature Schnauzer is a compact but strong miniature breed with good musculature and a square outline. Ideal height at the withers is 30–35 cm for both sexes. Weight is typically 4–8 kg. The dog must remain dense, dry, and functional, without lightness or heaviness. Extreme size deviation is undesirable.
Faults
Faults include any deviations affecting balance, functionality, or breed type: lack of squareness, weak topline, light pigmentation, large or widely set ears, soft coat, poor trimming, faulty movement, or unclear colors. Incorrect temperament such as excessive shyness, excitability, or aggression is also faulty.
Disqualifying Faults
Disqualification includes severe deviations: aggression or extreme fearfulness; lack of nose pigmentation, brown or pink nose; overshot or undershot bite; multiple missing teeth; deformed skull or jaws; light, blue, or odd-colored eyes; non-standard coat colors; soft or curly coat; severe alopecia; structural defects impairing movement.
Important Notes
Evaluation must be based on overall impression: harmony, compactness, and working type. Minor deviations are acceptable if they do not affect health or function. Coat quality and trimming are crucial to breed type. Temperament must be confident and stable. Females may appear slightly lighter, which is allowed. Evidence is required for scars or medical traces.
Conclusion
The Miniature Schnauzer is a compact, energetic, and expressive breed combining working qualities with a lively character. Appearance, movement, and temperament must reflect strength, confidence, and harmony. Correct proportions, a harsh coat, strong pigmentation, and a distinct head define the breed. It remains a versatile companion and reliable small guardian, valued worldwide for intelligence, spirit, and devotion.
