Miniature Schnauzers are recognized in four colors internationally: solid black, black and silver, salt and pepper, and white. Miniature Schnauzers are often described as non-moulting dogs, and while this is not entirely true, their shedding is minimal and generally unnoticeable. They will also have very straight, rigid front legs, and feet that are short and round (so-called 'cat feet') with thick, black pads. Docking of tails and cropping of ears has become a controversial practice, especially for non-working dogs, and is now illegal or restricted in a number of countries worldwide.