Mini King Schnauzer

The Mini King Schnauzer is a recent hybridization between the Miniature Schnauzer and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel so this dog does not have a detailed history nor does this mix have set standards.  Owners wishing to understand better the possible origins of their Mini King Schnauzer can review the parent breeds for their histories and character traits. The Miniature Schnauzer is a German Terrier with a sweet disposition but a serious "old man" look.  The breed developed in the 19th Century as a smaller version of the Standard Schnauzer whose role was that of ratter and vermin control on German farms.  Several smaller dogs were used to reduce the size of the Miniature Schnauzer including the Pomeranian, the Affenpinscher, and Miniature Pinscher.  However, the exact lineage of the Miniature Schnauzer is not absolutely known because detailed records were not kept.  The Miniature Schnauzer enjoyed early popularity, but the breed slowed down during World War I and II.  Following the Second World War, popularity increased significantly, and the Miniature Schnauzer enjoys a top twenty ranking in the American Kennel Club.  The AKC first recognized the Miniature Schnauzer in 1926. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a long history as a favorite Toy Spaniel companion in European courts, particularly in the English court.  During the 17th Century, the breed became the recognized favorites of the House of Stuart and both King Charles I and the Charles the II kept the dogs.  Unfortunately, by the 18th Century trade routes from China introduced Pugs and the flat-faced canines usurped the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at court.  Cavaliers were crossbred with Pugs for their desired round head and prominent eyes, and the Cavalier as he was through the 16th Century almost faded.  Fortunately, fanciers in the 20th Century worked diligently to search for specimens, as well as restore the original Cavalier standards.  Today, the Cavalier standards are highly regarded.