Toy & Teacup Schnauzers Are Cute. Are They Ethical or Legal?

Tiny dogs are some of the cutest, most endearing animals on the planet. Toy and Teacup versions of several dog breeds have become increasingly popular for some very obvious reasons: (1) they are adorable, (2) they are adorable, and (3) they are, well, adorable. But is the practice of breeding Toy and Teacup versions of any dog breed, including Schnauzers, legal and ethical? We already have Livi, our Miniature Schnauzer, but our daughter really thinks she “needs” a Toy Schnauzer, so I wanted to help her research her options. We came away with some very real concerns, and here’s what we found.

Is it legal and ethical to breed Toy and Teacup Schnauzers? Toy and Teacup Schnauzers are not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, and there are no breeding regulations in place. As a result, yes, it is technically legal to breed tiny sizes. The question of whether or not it is ethical is more complicated. The breeding strategies are controversial and may not be in line with reputable breeding practices.

Miniature Schnauzers are a German breed admired for their thick whiskers, bushy brows, and wiry fur that come in black and silver, salt and pepper, and black color. This popular canine was bred down from large Standard Schnauzers by crossbreeding them with smaller dogs like Miniature Poodle and the Affenpinscher.

This particular Schnauzer breed is known to be friendly, obedient, and smart. Miniatures also make wonderful watchdogs. Even though they are the smallest among the three Schnauzer breeds, many people have become interested in dogs that are even tinier, like Toy or even Teacup Schnauzers.

What is the Difference Between Miniature, Toy, and Teacup Schnauzers?

Simply stated, Miniature Schnauzer is the breed of the dog, and the Toy and Teacup versions are just smaller varieties of this breed. In addition, there is a difference in how they are recognized by the American Kennel Club.

How Big Are Toy and Teacup Schnauzers?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that the Miniature Schnauzer breed standard stands between 12 and 14 inches and weighs between 12 and 21 pounds.

The Toy and Teacup varieties are much smaller than this standard, with Toy Schnauzers weighing under 12 pounds and Teacups Schnauzers weighing under 7 pounds.

Are Toy and Teacup Schnauzers Recognized by the American Kennel Club?

The primary fact you need to know is that Toy schnauzers are not recognized as separate Schnauzer breeds. The practice of breeding these smaller versions of the Miniature Schnauzer is still controversial, and they are still categorized as Miniature Schnauzers.

Because Toy and Teacup Schnauzers are technically Miniature Schnauzers, you can submit their registration papers to the American Kennel Club as purebred Miniature Schnauzers, as long as their breeding has actually been pure.

Can Toy and Teacup Schnauzers Compete in Dog Shows?

Toy and Teacup Schnauzer sizes do not meet the Miniature Schnauzer breed standard, and as a result they are not allowed to compete in conformation dog shows, such as the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Of course, you may be interested in local competitions or simply recreational options such as Earthdog Trials or Agility Courses. Read my article What are the Best Sports for Schnauzers for more information. Just remember that such tiny versions of the Schnauzer breed may not be well-suited for vigorous sports and you may want to check with your veterinarian.

Is Breeding Toy or Teacup Schnauzers Legal?

Technically, yes, breeding Toy or Teacup Schnauzers is legal.

Unfortunately, since Toy and Teacup Schnauzers are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, there are no breeding regulations when it comes to producing them.

This may change in the future because many of the breeding practices used to produce such small dogs is increasingly controversial.

Is Breeding Toy or Teacup Schnauzers Ethical?

Since ethics deals with moral judgements and questions of right and wrong, the answer to this is somewhat subjective.

What I can say is that even though the trend and popularity of Toy- and Teacup-sized dogs is still strong, the controversy is growing.

Ultimately, you will need to make your own decision, so let’s cover the methods used to produce Toy and Teacup Schnauzers.

How Toy and Teacup Schnauzers are Bred

Before we talk about the actual breeding practices, we need to cover two points:

First, Toy and Teacup Schnauzers do not occur naturally. Sometimes, a Toy- or Teacup-sized puppy will occur naturally in a regular litter as the runt. However, this is few and far in between. In fact, we will discuss how some breeders use runts in just a minute.

Second, some unscrupulous breeders will actually limit food for small Schnauzers to stunt growth and then pass them off as Toy- or Teacup-sized dogs.

So other than these two situations, there are only three ways to genetically breed Toy or Teacup Schnauzers.

“Miniature Schnauzer is the breed of the dog, and the Toy and Teacup versions are simply much smaller varieties of this breed.”

THE SCHNAUZER COLLECTIVE

Although it’s possible to produce a tiny dog utilizing any of these methods, each of them has its challenges and isn’t without controversy. Keep in mind that a reputable breeder should be trying to improve the breed; maintaining strong characteristics, shoring up health and longevity, and minimizing weaknesses where possible.

The question regarding ethics lies in whether or not breeding Toy and Teacup versions of the Miniature Schnauzer is for the improvement of the Schnauzer line.

Breeding for cuteness does not count.

The three breeding methods include:

Mixing a Miniature Schnauzer with a Smaller Breed

One of the most popular ways to breed Toy or Teacup Schnauzers is mixing Miniature Schnauzers with smaller breeds. However, this generates a mixed breed which can inherit temperamental and physical characteristics from either parent.

Although there is some evidence indicating that mixed breeds could be healthier than most purebreds, when you cross different dog breeds the offspring is then at risk for health issues from either of the two parents.

Introducing Dwarfism Genes

Introducing dwarfism genes is another method that some breeders use to produce a Toy or Teacup Schnauzer.  Generally, when puppies grow, their legs lengthen to the standard of the normal breed. However, in this case, the affected puppies will have a disproportionat;y short build of varying severity. Although this can produce a smaller dog, creating canines with genetic skeletal complications can also cause painful joint conditions as well as other health complications.

Breeding from Runts

Some breeders breed Miniature Schnauzers with runts to create the smallest puppies possible, with every successive line becoming much smaller. The benefit of this breeding technique is that the offspring will typically be purebred Schnauzers and will have all the appealing characteristics of the breed. However, the problem of this method is that runts are generally small, weak, and have severe health problems that make it difficult to create healthy puppies.

This is a common practice in puppy mills that are literally in the business of producing as many Toy and Teacup puppies as possible, with no regard for the health of the mothers or improvement of the breed.

What Health Problems Can Toy and Teacup Schnauzers Can Have?

Although small breeds like a Toy or Teacup Schnauzer tend to have a longer lifespan than bigger dogs, tiny dogs can be susceptible to some complicated health issues. Although tiny Schnauzers have a decent lifespan of between 12 years to 14 years, there are some health concerns you should be aware of.

These health issues include:

Teeth Issues

Due to their small mouths, tiny Schnauzers are highly prone to teeth problems like periodontal disease. This condition can lead to many other severe conditions in the long run, including heart disease, a common ailment that Miniature Schnauzers are already a high risk for.

Organ Problems

Miniature Schnauzers are already at risk for these health concerns, and producing a tinier version simply increases the risk. Bladder and Kidney stones are very common and a Toy or Teacup Schnauzer will probably need a low-calcium diet and consultations with a veterinarian.

Pancreatitis, a potentially very serious gastrointestinal situation, is also a high risk and has been known to cause organ failure and death.

Muscle Diseases

Toy and Teacup Schnauzers are more prone to Myotia Congenital, a muscular disease that causes their muscles to contract, leading to stiffness. When this disease progresses, it can lead to numerous health problems like trouble swallowing and difficulty walking.

Digestive Issues

The organs and digestive system of Toy and Teacup Schnauzers are unbelievably small. The sheer miniature nature of the systems can lead to eating, swallowing, and digestive concerns. For example, their stomachs are so small that they can only eat small amounts at a time and need to eat every few hours.

Skin Issues

Tiny Schnauzers are also susceptible to skin issues and allergies. Comedo syndrome, also called Schnauzer bumps, is quite common in this breed. It can lead to blackheads development along his back, causing hair loss and scabbing in the long run.

Additional Health Concerns

As with all Miniature Schnauzers, Toy and Teacup versions are also at risk for eye illnesses like cataracts, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and ear infections.

The Risks of Having a Toy or Teacup Schnauzer

Small dog breeds are quite comfortable in apartments and condos, they do not dominate your furniture, and they are easy to lift and carry in case of illnesses or injuries.

However, tiny dog breeds come with their unique set of tribulations. Some of the common risks of owning a small dog are:

• Small dog breeds are easy to lose. As silly as it sounds, small dogs are easy to misplace or lose, even indoors. You can try adding bells to his collar to prevent misplacing him.
• Smaller canines are mobility challenged. Small dogs with a lot of determination can easily hurt themselves when trying to get onto couches or into vehicles. Some can miss, bounce off, and then jump once more, repeatedly falling to the floor until you stop them. A canine-friendly pet ramp or a set of dog steps can be helpful.
• Small-breed dog breeds are at risk for accidental injuries. Small dogs are very prone to accidental injuries. For instance, it’s easy for a tiny puppy to get underfoot, even when you are trying to be quite careful. Inadvertent kicking, rolling over on him while sleeping, or accidentally catching him in a door are all possibilities.
• Small dog breeds also have fragile neck structures compared to their larger counterparts. That can make them incredibly vulnerable to tracheal injury. To prevent such accidents, you should ensure that you use a chest harnesses instead of a collar while walking.
• Small dogs are inclined to be treated like toys. Very tine dog breeds are sometimes treated just like the various stuffed animals they almost resemble. You will need to monitor your Toy or Teacup Schnauzer around other dogs and children, and take enough time to teach them basic commands to avoid accidents. Teacup and Toy schnauzers are definitely better for older children, teenagers, adults, and some seniors.
• Small dogs can be mistreated by other bigger pets or even become prey. Petite dogs can sometimes become the easy targets of prey behavior or dangerous predators at dog parks. They are even vulnerable to attacks from animals like coyotes, hawks, and ravens.
• Tiny dogs should not be left alone and they need to eat often. Depending on how tiny your Toy or Teacup Schnauzer is will determine how long he can be left alone. Generally, this tiny size should not be left alone for more then 4-5 hours at a time, and will need to eat a small amount every few hours.

Finding a Reputable Schnauzer Breeder

If you truly want a Toy or Teacup Schnauzer, remember that you can possibly find one at your local rescue or shelter. Rescuing a Schnauzer might be a win-win for both you and the abandoned fur friend.

However, if you decide to find a breeder who, in fact, chooses to breed Toy or Teacup Schnauzers, please do scrupulous and dedicated research.

To be honest, most reputable breeder will probably not even consider breeding such tiny dogs for the very reasons we’ve already covered. However, if you find a breeder you deem potentially trustworthy, consider doing even more research by including the tips below.

Finding a reputable breeder is critical to ensuring a pure and healthy Schnauzer breed.

Good breeders not only act as a bridge between you and a purebred Schnauzer, you should also be able to rely on them for any follow-up throughout your Schnauzer’s life.

Here are some tips for finding a reputable breeder:

Get a Trusted Referral

Your veterinarian, friends, and family may suggest a reputable breeder in your area. You can also contact the local breed club or strike up a conversation with participants at a professional dog show to get referrals for a good breeder.

Visit the American Kennel Club Website

The American Kennel Club is the most reputable site to look for breeders. The organization does not endorse, recommend, or license breeders, but it will help you locate one in your area. The association also has an official website for AKC-registered puppies called AKC Marketplace: PuppyFinder, where you can find a reputable breeder.

You will also want to be familiar with the AKC’s Breeder of Merit Program. Breeders in this program are dedicated to preserving a breed’s original characteristics and siring healthy, energetic pups. As such, you are confident about finding a reputable breeder here.

Ask to Meet the Breeder

Meeting the breeder in person should eliminate any doubts you may have about him. He should explain how long he has been a breeder, whether he is a registered breeder.

Reputable breeders should provide proof of essential health screenings like CERF and OFA certificates. They explain the health conditions affecting Schnauzer dogs, so you know what to watch out for in the future.

The breeder should also provide two or more references from clients he has worked with in the past year. You can visit or call them to find out about their experience with the breeder, how problems were handled, and the pros and cons of working with that breeder.

Reputable breeders are acquainted with two or more dog breeds. It is difficult to develop strong expertise in many breeds. If the breeder is advertising ten or more varieties, it is likely he is not reliable.

You can also review The American Kennel’s Guide to Responsible Dog Breeding.

In addition, here are some questions you will want to ask all breeders you are considering:

13 Questions to Ask a Breeder

1. Why do they breed Miniature Schnauzers? It’s good to determine whether they have a true love for the breed or are simply trying to make money on a popular, expensive breed through sub-par breeding practices.
2. Do they belong to a breed club? Ask for references and confirmation that they belong to, and participate in, the club.
3. How long have they been breeding Schnauzers? This will give you a sense of their experience and knowledge.
4. Can they provide recommendations? Ask the breeder for three or four references from Schnauzer owners who have purchased from them within the past year. When you call, ensure that each reference had a good experience, found the breeder to be trustworthy, and that their Schnauzer is healthy.
5. Do they require a limited registration? Do they require that you spay or neuter your dog by a specific age? A limited registration is for Schnauzer puppies that the breeder does not want to be part of a continued breeding program. Sometimes, this is because the specific Schnauzer does not meet their breeding criteria and they want to protect the quality of their breeding program. This American Kennel Club article is a good source for more information.
6. Do they provide a health certificate and certificate of sale. Does the breeder offer a health certificate that is issued by a veterinarian? Your state may also require a certificate of sale. Ask the breeder if he will supply a health certificate for the puppy issued by his veterinarian. Some states require also a certificate of sale or certification of veterinary inspection. The American Veterinary Medical Association lists states the need this documentation.
7. How many litters of Schnauzers did they have last year? There are responsible limits to breeding and how many litters a dam should have each year. Responsible limits are between 1 and 3, but many high-caliber breeders only permit their dams to have one litter per year.
8. What makes their dam & sire good choices for breeding Miniature Schnauzers? The breeder should know the genetic qualities that the dam and sire bring to the breeding process.
9. Are the dam and sire on site for you to meet? If you have an opportunity to interact with the Schnauzer’s parents, it can give you a firsthand idea as to what you may expect with the Schnauzer you are considering purchasing. You’ll be able to see their temperament and physical health.
10. What is the breeder currently feeding the Schnauzer? You will want to continue feeding your Schnauzer puppy the same food for at least the first few days. This decreases any risk of gastrointestinal problems. You should visit with a veterinarian within the first several days of bringing the puppy home, at which time you could talk with the vet about changing the type of diet you feed.
11. What vaccinations, de-worming, or other interventions have been administered? Most breeders will administer a Schnauzer’s first round of vaccinations and de-worming or heartworm medications, if needed. This information will be essential since you will need to know how to proceed with a schedule.
12. Have the Schnauzers been trained or socialized? Many breeders will potty train the litter and also being socializing them somewhat before they leave. Knowing this information will prepare you for what additional training your Schnauzer may need. Keep in mind that initial training of any kind is just a beginning. All Schnauzers will benefit from obedience training and a lot of socialization.
13. Have any of the puppies been sick or injured? Be sure that you know if there have been any problems with any of the puppies. Dogs can pass illnesses among themselves and injuries can either signal a lack of attention and responsibility, or genetic problems within the litter.

Ultimately, whether or not you decide to add a toy and teacup Schnauzer to your life is up to you.

Please just keep in mind the ethics, the practices involved, and the potential health risks to such tiny Schnauzers when making your choice.

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