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White Schnauzer: Discover The Secrets Of This Rare Color

A White Schnauzer with text above reading "White Schnauzer".

Did you know that Schnauzers can be white?

It’s a unique color. The color is typically only seen in Mini Schnauzers.

Finding a White Giant Schnauzer or White Standard Schnauzer is nearly impossible. But, they can exist…

In this article, I explore a few different topics regarding the White Schnauzer:

  • The rarity of the color white
  • What causes white coloring
  • Price of a White Schnauzer, & more!

The rarity of the White Schnauzer makes them all the more desirable.

By the end of this article, I bet you’ll be searching for White Schnauzer puppies near you!

Let’s dive in!

What is a White Schnauzer?

A White Schnauzer is a unique, eye-catching variety of the Miniature Schnauzer breed.

Exhibiting a pure white coat color, these dogs are known for their square-proportioned bodies, a wiry double coat, and distinctive bushy eyebrows and beards.

White Miniature Schnauzer laying down on a smooth, polished surface.
White Miniature Schnauzer

White Schnauzers are not albinos; they carry the gene for black coloration, but it is recessive to the gene for salt and pepper.

Genetics behind the white coat

The white coat found in these dogs is due to a recessive gene, which has been the subject of some controversy in the past.

The E locus is responsible for the black coat color in dogs. An E/E dog will have a black coat.

But a dog that has E/e – one copy of the e gene – is a carrier for alternate colors such as white [1]pawprintgenetics.com.

If a dog carries two copies of e, it may have a white, cream, or yellow coat. This is how you get a White Schnauzer.

Are White Schnauzers rare?

White Schnauzers are somewhat rare compared to other color varieties in the breed.

They are the least common among the three primary colors and are predominantly found within the Miniature Schnauzer category.

In fact, it is almost impossible to find a Giant or Standard White Schnauzer.

At birth, White Schnauzer puppies are already pure white, a characteristic that sets them apart from other dogs whose coats may change over time.

Their pure White color remains consistent throughout their lives, making them an attractive choice for dog enthusiasts.

Although recognized by the World Canine Organization (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), Miniature White Schnauzers are not accepted by major breed clubs such as the American Kennel Club (according to the American Miniature Schnauzer Club).

However, they can still be registered and participate in performance events in the United States and other countries.

Are there White Mini Schnauzers?

Yes, there are White Miniature Schnauzers! These adorable dogs are a unique color variation within the Miniature Schnauzer breed.

White Mini Schnauzer standing in a field.
White Mini Schnauzer out in the field.

White Miniature Schnauzers have the same appearance, temperament, and grooming requirements as their counterparts in other colors.

They are undeniably charming, and their stunning white coat sets them apart.

Despite the breed standard not recognizing the white variation – the White Miniature Schnauzer is still a Schnauzer true and true.

While the Standard and Giant Schnauzers are only found in colors like salt and pepper, black, and silver, the Miniature Schnauzer is unique in having a white coat as one of its possible colors.

Despite this, White Miniature Schnauzers have found acceptance and love among dog enthusiasts, just like their black and silver siblings.

White Miniature Schnauzers have a solid white coat throughout their lives without significant changes or fading.

White Mini Schnauzer laying down and surrounded by a bright blue background.

Their skin may have a slight grayish or blackish tint, but their overall appearance remains predominantly White. These beautiful dogs also typically have black pads, brown eyes, and cute black noses.

So, if you’re looking for a distinct and eye-catching Miniature Schnauzer, the White Mini Schnauzer may be the perfect addition to your family.

With their captivating appearance and lovable personality, these little dogs will bring joy to your home.

Can Giant Schnauzers be white?

You might wonder if Giant Schnauzers can also come in this unique color. The answer is yes but with a twist.

While Giant Schnauzers can be white, it is relatively rare, and most White Schnauzers are Miniature Schnauzers.

A realistic airbrush painting of a White Giant Schnauzer.
Artistic render of a White Giant Schnauzer.

Schnauzers come in three sizes – Miniature, Standard, and Giant – and can all be found in black, salt and pepper, or White colors.

However, when it comes to the white coloration, it is the least common of the three colors across all sizes and even less so in Giant Schnauzers.

If you want to add a White Giant Schnauzer to your family, be prepared for a rare find (and a hefty price tag)!

What makes a Schnauzer white?

Although albinism can occur, causing a non-pigmented or “White” Schnauzer, true White Schnauzers are not albino.

A White Standard Schnauzer standing outside in the grass.
White Standard Schnauzer

They carry the gene for yellow/red coloration, which is recessive to the salt and pepper gene, resulting in their white coat.

While White Giant Schnauzers are not as common as their Miniature counterparts, they still possess the same regal and confident demeanor characteristic of the breed.

Do White Schnauzers have health problems?

Like all other colors of Miniature Schnauzers, White Schnauzers can experience certain health issues.

However, the health challenges with a White Miniature Schnauzer are not unique compared to other colors.

Awareness of these potential health problems is essential to ensure that your White Schnauzer maintains a happy and healthy life.

Some of the frequent health conditions that White Schnauzers can encounter include the following:

  • Pancreatitis
  • Gastric Torsion
  • Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Cataracts
  • Diabetes
  • Allergies
  • Epilepsy
  • Formation of bladder stones

With proper care, monitoring, and attention to their physical and mental health, you will ensure that your White Schnauzer can stay happy and healthy for many years.

What are the standard breed colors for Schnauzers?

Schnauzers, treasured for their distinctive appearance and lively nature, come in three distinct coat colors, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).

These striking colors include:

Salt and pepper

• Solid black

• Black and silver

The salt and pepper coat color is most commonly seen in Schnauzers.

An adult salt and pepper Mini Schnauzer standing outside and staring at the camera.
Salt and pepper Mini Schnauzer.

This color combination combines dark and light hairs that intermingle, creating a unique and eye-catching pattern.

In the black and silver variation, the silver hairs accent the predominantly black coat, adding interest and depth to the dog’s appearance.

The solid black Schnauzers exude an air of sophistication and elegance with their stunning all-black coats.

Each of the three sizes of Schnauzers – Miniature, Standard, and Giant – can be found displaying these colors.

It is interesting to know that the Miniature Schnauzer was created by crossing the Standard Schnauzer with dogs of different colors, resulting in the appearance of the silver and black combination previously classified as salt & pepper.

These iconic coat colors are skillfully set off by the Schnauzer’s wiry and tight-fitting coat, giving the breed its unmistakable appearance and making it more popular amongst dog enthusiasts.

Each color combination can vary in hue and contrast, allowing for a delightful variety within the breed.

It’s simply amazing to see the broad spectrum of colors present in the Schnauzer breed and how these colors blend harmoniously with their wiry coats, accentuating their distinctive features and charm in each of the Schnauzer sizes.

What are other rare Schnauzer colors?

In addition to the stunning White Schnauzer, dog enthusiasts should be aware of several other rare and eye-catching colors.

White chocolate

One such color is the White chocolate Schnauzer, which features a solid white base coat and distinct brown-colored pads, eyelids, nose, and brown or hazel eyes.

The color may be less common, but it certainly adds a unique charm to these little doggies.

Liver and tan

Another rare color variation is the liver and tan Schnauzer. These dogs resemble the black and silver color, except they sport a rich liver-colored coat instead of a black one.

This color combination is rare, but it really stands out when spotted.

A few other noteworthy colors include:

Gray Schnauzers: These dogs can have shades of gray, ranging from dark to light, giving them an attractive and mysterious appearance. This color, although rare, is simply mesmerizing.

Silver Schnauzers: Silver-coated Schnauzers catch the eye with their shiny, almost metallic-hued fur, which can sometimes be accompanied by striking White markings source.

Wheaten Schnauzers: This warm, golden color is quite unusual among Schnauzers, giving these dogs a soft and inviting look.

These rare Schnauzer colors excite dog enthusiasts and lovers who appreciate the uniqueness of these beautiful breeds.

Each distinctive color adds an extra level of charm and personality, making these rare-colored Schnauzers all the more delightful.

Are White Schnauzers expensive?

White Schnauzers are considered expensive, primarily due to their rarity and distinct appearance.

Breeder prices for White Schnauzers can vary based on geographical location, but they may charge more because these dogs are marketed as “rare” and possess a unique aesthetic appeal.

The initial purchase cost of a Schnauzer can range between $875 and $5,500, depending on factors such as size and quality.

Typically, a White Schnauzer puppy is more expensive and falls toward the higher end of the price spectrum.


Kevin is a proud Bernedoodle owner and Doodle dog fanatic. Read how a chance encounter with two Bernedoodles spurred a lifelong passion here. If you want to get in contact with Kevin, you can send him a message.

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