Who We Are

Thank you for visiting Orchard Hill Miniature Schnauzers. My name is Elizabeth "Buzzy" Alfano. I have been breeding Miniature Schnauzers for over 50 years and showing for over 30. In that time I have been an active member of the American Miniature Schnauzer Club and am the past President for the Portland Miniature Schnauzer Club.

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I have dedicated many years to the betterment of the Schnauzer breed, including public education and fundraising for and supporting Miniature Schnauzer health research. As a retired Veterinary Technician, I am an advocate of breeding only healthy, health-tested dogs, whose temperament and conformation represent the breed standard as set forth by the American Miniature Schnauzer Club.

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My husband Tony and I house all our dogs in our home and each is kept as a loved pet. We do not believe in raising or keeping our dogs in a kennel environment. Each dog spends the majority of their day lounging on the couch or sitting in our laps. We have two large outdoor play yards and covered all-weather potty runs. Dog toys and beds abound the home and a soft rug in front of the fire is a favored spot so they may lounge their winter days away. In the spring and summer, we have 1/3 of an acre fenced and set aside as a grassy play area.

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We are here to answer questions for those new to the breed, mentor those wanting to learn to show, and are always happy to help people find or acquire a new companion.