Schnu

The Schnu dog is a new designer breed so little is known about its history. Therefore we can look to the history of the parent dogs to get an indication of the characteristics the Schnu may inherit. The Shiba Inu originated in Japan and was used to flush out small birds and game for hunters. World War ll was a disasterous time for dogs, the Shiba Inu included. Dogs that hadn't been killed in the bombing raids were hit with distemper in the post war years. Those that did survive were the dogs in the remote countryside of Japan. These dogs were brought in and used to initiate breeding programs, which helped to re-establish the Shiba Inu that we recognise today. The Japanese Kennel Club was founded in 1948 and the Shiba Inu standard was drafted by Nihon Ken Hozonkai. It is noted that an American service family were the first to import these lovely dogs into the United States in 1954. But between then and the year 1970 little else is known about the breed in America, nor how it developed. But in 1979 the first known American litter of the Shiba Inu were born and these cute soft puppies were the first of an increasing number of this amazing survivor. The American Kennel Club recognised the Shiba Inu in the Miscellaneous Class in 1993 and they acquired full status in the Non Sporting Group in 1997. These wonderful dogs make devoted companions and are a happy but strong willed dog suitable for families. The Miniature Schnauzer originated from Germany in the late 19th Century, by crossbreeding the Standard Schnauzer with a smaller breed of dog such as the Miniature Pinscher, Affenpinscher and possibly the Pomeranian. They were developed to be ratters and guard dogs on farms. While there are no clear records of the how they were developed, there is an account of the first Miniature Schnauzer named Findel ( a female puppy) being born in 1888. World War l and ll were tough on dogs, particularly in Europe. Some breeds were on the brink of extinction. But dog fanciers regained their interest in the Miniature Schnauzer and ran breeding programs for  this little dog  who became very popular and has continued to be so to this day. The coloring has changed from a range of red, black and tan, yellow or parti-color to what we know today which is the black and silver which is very popular. Apart from that the Minature Schnauzer has changed little. With his long beard and bushy eyebrows, he is a bundle of energy and has a mischievious personality. Used as a companion dog today, he still retains the hunting instinct and has that typical terrier spunkiness.