Although the hybrid Mini Ratzer has not been around long, you can look at the histories of the parent breeds for an idea as to their history. The Miniature Schnauzer is of German descent and was the smallest and most popular Schnauzer. They were discovered as an excellent rat hunter in the 1800s and were considered working dogs in Europe and other countries. However, in the United States, they are grouped with the Terriers, unlike their larger relatives, the Giant and Standard Schauzers. They were originally called Wirehaired Pinschers and just continued to stay in the Terrier group even after their name change. The Miniature Schnauzer is thought to have been bred from smaller Standard Schnauzers, Toy Poodles, and Affenpinschers. Their name, Schnauzer, means small beard, regarding the beard they have that covers their muzzle, making them look like an old man. In 1926, the Miniature Schnauzer was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club and is now the 17th most popular dog breed in America. The Rat Terrier is one of very few American breeds and they were developed as a small vermin hunter in the 1800s from a mix of the Beagle, Greyhound, Whippet, Fox Terrier, Manchester Terrier, English White Terrier, and Bull Terrier. The breed is well-known for its excellent scenting ability, speed, and friendly disposition. By the 1900s, the Rat Terrier was one of the most popular dog breeds found working on American farms. Theodore Roosevelt had a few Rat Terriers and brought them to the White House when he was president and his dogs were called “Teddy’s Terriers.” Strangely enough, they were not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club until 2013, where they are the 96th most popular breed of dog.
