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A schnauzer (plural schnauzers) is a German dog type that originated in Germany in the 1400s and 1500s. The term comes from "Schnauze," the German word for snout,[1] because of the dog's distinctly furry muzzle. The type consists of three breeds: the giant, standard and miniature schnauzer. The original schnauzer was of the same size as the modern standard schnauzer breed, and was bred as a rat catcher, yard dog and guard dog. The miniature schnauzer is the result of crossing the original schnauzer with affenpinschers and poodles. The giant schnauzer is the result of crossing the original schnauzer with Great Danes, Bouviers and Collies; they were used to herd and drive cattle. Miniature schnauzers are around one foot (30 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 13 and 15 pounds (five to seven kg). They have high energy levels, are very intelligent and are often silver and black. They can live outside but love to spend time with their owners. They make excellent pets as they are loyal companions and are rarely aggressive toward strangers, although they are quick to sound the alarm at a perceived threat. Standard schnauzers are around 1 1/2 feet (46 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh 26 to 37 pounds (12 to 17 kg). They are in the group of working dogs. Standard schnauzers have been used to catch rats and as guard dogs. They have also carried messages in times of war, helped the Red Cross and been police dogs. Giant schnauzers are around two feet (60 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 66 and 78 pounds (30 to 35 kg). They also are working dogs. In history, giant schnauzers helped herd cattle and were also guard dogs at breweries. All schnauzers have dense, wiry, stiff fur and long whiskers on their faces. Their coats are often a mixture of black and white like salt and pepper. They may also be solid black.