Standard Schnauzers are lively and fun, but they need positive guidance to offset their fiery (but always lovable) personalities. The more you contribute to their intelligence, socialization and quality of life—whether via playtime, constructive games, obedience exercises or good old-fashioned attention—the happier and more manageable they become. Schnauzers love to be involved in family occasions. Though strong and diligent, they can be deeply affectionate, warm and cuddly when the mood strikes.
Temperament
The Standard Schnauzer is a sensitive breed, and is known as an excellent problem solver. He gets along well with children, particularly when brought up with them. He tends to be stand offish around strangers, but early socialization can help to promote a more confident and less suspicious personality. His loyalty and territorial instincts make him an effective watchdog, and he is also ideal as a family pet and companion. The Standard Schnauzer gets along well with household pets with early socialization, but can be aggressive with dogs of the same sex. These dogs are ideal for active families, and for confident, experienced owners.
Formal Breed Standard
History and Origins
Schnauzers are originally a German breed, descended during the Middle Ages from herding, ratting and guardian breeds. They may be most closely related to the spitz-type breeds. Dogs very similar to today's schnauzers existed in the Middle Ages. They were portrayed in paintings, statues and tapestries, including by artists Rembrandt, Dürer and Reynolds. Initially a dog of the peasant farmer, in the 19th century this breed captured the interest of the German dog fancier and they began to be bred to a standard.
The word Schnauzer (from the German word for 'snout') appeared for the first time in 1842 when used as a synonym for the Wire-haired Pinscher (the name under which the breed first competed at dog shows). The Standard Schnauzer is the original Schnauzer from which the Miniature and Giant breeds were developed in the late 19th century. They have been shown from the 1870s onwards and first appeared in the United States about 1900. "The Schnauzer breed takes its name from one of its kind, a show dog winner by that name, "Schnauzer", at the 1879 Hanover Show in Germany. The name "schnauz bart" means "conspicuous moustache or beard". [3] The Standard Schnauzer has been used throughout modern history in various roles. The Red Cross used the dogs for guard duty during World War I. Both German and American police departments put the dogs to work as well. Several Standards have been used in the USA for drug and bomb detection, and also as search-and-rescue dogs.
Size & Weight
Weight: 30 - 50 pounds (13.61 - 22.68 kg)
Height: 17 - 20 inches (43.18 - 50.80 cm)
Grooming Requirements
The Standard Schnauzer has a stiff, wiry coat that sheds little to no hair and has no offensive dog odor. To keep the coat clean and free of tangles and mats, frequent grooming is needed. A short wire brush should be used daily, and the whiskers cleaned after meals. Hair around the eyes and ears should be kept trimmed, and an all-over clipping is usually required in the spring and fall.
Exercise Needs
The Standard Schnauzer is a robust, exuberant dog who loves to play and needs daily exercise. A fenced yard is highly recommended and keep in mind that Standards can jump a six foot fence, if motivated.
Health Issues
The breed is relatively healthy. Although hip dysplasia is present, severe hip dysplasia is rare. There are cases of flea and food allergies and some skin problems. Most breeds have some of the above and some Standards will never have allergies , skin problems, or hip problems, but we feel it is best for you to know the worst. The Standard, if given good care, will usually live 12 to 15 years.
Trivia
The Standard Schnauzer was a popular subject of painters Sir Joshua Reynolds, Albrecht Dürer and Rembrandt.
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