A schnauzer (plural schnauzers) is a German og type which originated in Germany in the 1400s and 1500s. The term comes from the German word for snout "Schnauze"' because of the dog's distinctly furry muzzles. 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 were bred as rat catchers, yard dogs, and guard dogs. 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.