Standard Schnauzer Facts

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.

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 / Living Conditions

Though the Schnauzer 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 interview prospective owners to make sure this is the right breed for them.

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.

If your yard is not fenced, consider getting an electronic dog fence. There are a lot of systems that are cheap (a lot cheaper than a physical fence), easy to install and will keep your pet well protected.

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

Like all dog breeds, the Standard Schnauzer is susceptible to complications caused by parasites such as dog ticks, fleas, and puppy worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, and heartworms.

Other than the above concerns, this is a very healthy breed. Still, buy only from reputable Standard Schnauzer breeders (visit dog breeders to learn how to identify responsible dog breeders).

No matter how small the risk of health problems is, any puppy may get sick or injured. Many health problems will require an immediate attention from your Vet, but there are many others that will not, and you may handle them on your own.

To save time and money, learn how to diagnose and treat dog health problems that don't require your Vet's attention.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years.

Did you ever consider adopting your next pet?

If this is the breed you are interested in, and adoption appeals to you, consider contacting your local Standard Schnauzer rescue. There are thousands of pets waiting for a loving home and, yes, it's possible to adopt a purebred dog.