A schnauzer (plural schnauzers) is a German dog type that originated in Germany in the 1400s and 1500s. The term comes from "Schnauze," the German word for snout, because of the dog's distinctly furry muzzle. The type consists of three breeds: the giant, standard and miniature schnauzer. Friendly and loving, Schnauzers become part of their families and get along well with children. (source: Wikipedia)