What you Need to Know About The Black Miniature Schnauzer

When choosing a miniature Schnauzer one of the decisions you will need to make is which color you prefer. Miniature Schnauzers are available in many different colors, including the three color variations recognized by the U.S. breed standard.

They include solid black Miniature Schnauzer, black and silver and salt and pepper. The solid black Miniature Schnauzer can be easily recognized due to the fact that it is entirely black and also has a black undercoat.

In some cases, this color Schnauzer may feature a relatively small white patch located on the chest. By contrast, the salt and pepper Schnauzer features tones that can range from a light gray to a very dark slate colored gray.

At the current time, the only three colors allowed in the show ring for the Miniature Schnauzer are the solid black, black and silver and salt and pepper.

Other colors can be registered by the American Kennel Club.

The black Miniature Schnauzer can oftentimes be the most difficult for an exhibitor due to the fact that the wire jacket can have such intense color it is frequently superior to areas that have been clipped as well as the leg areas that have been scissored.

It should also be kept in mind that there are no guarantees that just because a puppy is a solid black that he or she will also have a black undercoat. It is entirely possible for a black Miniature Schnauzer to have a light grey undercoat. This, of course, can be quite challenging for a groomer.

Producing a Black Miniature Schnauzer

The genetics of breeding the various colors of Miniature Schnauzers can also be somewhat challenging to understand. Black and silver is actually recessive to any other colors in this breed. In order for a puppy of this color to be produced, he or she would need to receive a gene from both parents. Consequently, whenever two black and silver Miniature Schnauzers are mated, the result will always be black and silver puppies.

Salt and pepper is also dominant to black and silver. In some cases it is possible for a salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer to carry the gene for black and silver and as a result produce puppies that are black and silver. Interestingly, some dogs that carry this trait will have a type of marker indicating this; it is usually a small white spot that is located just over the nose. Black is always dominant over all over colors. In order for a black Miniature Schnauzer to be produced the puppy will need to have a minimum of one black Miniature Schnauzer parent.

Classified as a Terrier in the AKC grouping, the black Miniature Schnauzer is able to trace its history back to farm dogs in Germany that were bred for herding, guard work and overall farm work in southern Germany. Smaller versions of this dog, now known in modern times as the Miniature Schnauzer, were not defined as a breed until 1884. In the 1920s they were imported to the United States.

Bringing Home a Black Miniature Schnauzer

As those familiar with the breed are already aware, Miniature Schnauzers make wonderful pets due to their alert and loving natures. They are often quite well suited for city living because of their small size. At the same time, their stamina and energy also make them ideal for companions in rural areas as well. Intelligent enough to be interesting and entertaining, the Miniature Schnauzer is rarely too independent. They also offer the added benefit of not shedding, making them a good choice for individuals who suffer from allergies.

Owners of Miniature Schnauzers will find they have ample energy, but are also quite loving and frequently want to be with their owners. This breed of dog is better suited for owners that are able to spend time with them on a daily basis. Prospective owners should keep in mind that the Miniature Schnauzer is typically more of an indoors dog. They do require daily exercise, although hot or cold temperatures should be restricted to short periods of time.

The black Miniature Schnauzer can be a wonderful addition to your home and family both as a loyal companion as well as a competitor in the show ring. Just keep in mind that if you do intend to show, you may need to provide more attention to your mini Schnauzer’s grooming than is needed with other colorations.

For more information we recommend the Miniature Schnauzer Insider's Guide ebook and audio.