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Standard Schnauzer Facts
Did you just bring home a new Standard Schnauzer puppy and want to learn more about the breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a puppy and want to know if this
is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
The history of the breed, also known as Schnauzer, is not as clear as that of its close relatives - the Giant Schnauzer and the Miniature Schnauzer.
The breed originated in Germany and is closely related to spitz-type breeds. It's not clear when the breed originated but dogs similar to the Standard Schnauzer existed in the Middle Ages.
It's a multipurpose dog - though it was originally used as a herder, it's also been used as a general-purpose farm dog, a guard, a hunting dog and a companion.
The breed was brought to the United States after the WW I.
Physical Characteristics of Standard Schnauzer
This is a large and powerful dog with a muscular and somewhat square body.
It has a rectangular head with brown eyes, long eyebrows and whiskers, large black nose ("schnauzer" means "nose" in German) and cropped erect or natural ears. The tail is usually docked short.
It has a double coat that consists of a harsh outer coat and a short, dense undercoat. The coat comes in solid black or salt and pepper.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 18 to 20 inches | 35 to 50 pounds | |
| Female | 17 to 19 inches | 30 to 45 pounds |
Temperament
The Standard Schnauzer is an intelligent, fearless, energetic and playful dog. It's affectionate to its family and gets along well with children. Schnauzers love to be involved in family activities, but can be stubborn. Sometimes, it seems, they want to do things their way.
Standard Schnauzers are wary with strangers, very territorial and protective, and will fight to protect what they consider to be theirs. That could be objects, an area and even people.
They make excellent watchdogs, but need to be socialized not to be too protective.
They have a strong prey drive and should not be left alone with smaller animals.
To improve your pet's behavior when he grows up, consider puppy socialization training while he is still young.
Best Owner
Though this is a very active breed and will probably do better in a suburban environment, it can adjust to an apartment lifestyle.
It needs an experienced, firm and consistent owner who leads an active lifestyle. Some Standard Schnauzer breeders will even interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
This breed needs plenty of exercise.
If you like to take long walks, jog or ride a bicycle, you can take your pet along (on-leash, of course).
If you have a fenced yard or can take your pet to a safe area, he will enjoy playing and running off leash.
At a minimum, he needs couple of brisk walks every day.
Grooming
Though Standard Schnauzer puppies don't shed as much as many other breeds, they still require a lot of care.
To keep the coat even, it needs to be clipped twice a year. You also need to clip the hair around eyes and ears and clean the whiskers after each meal.
You need to brush often, not only to remove loose hair, but also to prevent matting.
Wash only when necessary and make sure to brush thoroughly when done.
Health Concerns
This is a healthy breed with very few health concerns. Still, buy only from reputable Standard Schnauzer breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years.
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