Schnauzers are dogs from Germany with a distinctive hairy moustache - 'schnauzer' is the German word for moustache. They are usually a salt-and-pepper colour, with white and black hairs mixed together. They were originally bred as a rat catcher and guard dog, but there are now three different size breeds - large, standard and miniature. They are friendly, loving dogs and are good with children. They are protective and make excellent guard dogs.