Origin

A Schnauzer-type dog has been represented in art and sculptures as early as the 1400’s. The Standard Schnauzer is the one that the Miniature and Giant Schnauzers evolved from, originating from southern Germany and the nearby regions of Switzerland and France. Originally it was used as a ratter, then it was discovered that they make excellent watchdogs and guards. The first breed standard for this dog was created in 1890.

Description

 

The Standard Schnauzer is a medium sized dog. The breed is sturdy and muscular, with an alert outlook. Hair on the eyebrows, moustache and legs is longer than elsewhere, giving them a very distinctive appearance. The Standard has a rectangular head and the body length equals the height at the withers.

Size	Medium
Colour	They can be salt and pepper, black with silver markings, solid black or white in colour. White is not a common colour and is rarely seen in the show ring.
Coat Length	Short Medium
Weight/Height Range	Ideally dogs should measure 48.3cms at the withers and weigh 18kgs. Bitches should measure 45.7cms and weigh 16kgs.
Ailments	Most of the problems that a Standard Schnauzer encounters are behavioural. A common cause of death in the older Schnauzer is heart failure.
Breed Classification	The Standard Schnauzer is a member of the utility group in Britain and Australia, but in the working group in the United States. They were originally used for ratting and guarding; today they are companion dogs.

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Personality

 

Standards are lively, active dogs and they can be stubborn and wilful and need a firm hand when training. They can become one man or one family dogs and may become very territorial. They do not always get on well with other dogs or household pets. Schnauzers make ideal family pets and watchdogs, ideally suited to the active family. They are quick to alert the family of any strangers approaching their territory, using their deep bark. Any behavioural problems can be minimised by correct socialisation and training at an early age.

 

Intelligence	The Standard Schnauzer is an intelligent dog that is easily trained, although it does need consistent training, as it can be quite stubborn. As puppies they do require lots of socialisation and training.
Energy	Medium
Suitability for Children	Medium
Tendency to Bark	Medium
Overall Exercise Requirement	Schnauzers enjoy exercise and play. However they will quite happily fall in with the family’s life style. They do like to be kept active and enjoy obedience tasks
Suitability as a Guard Dog	Medium
Ease of Transportation	High
Level of Aggression	Low
Other Animal Compatibility	Medium

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Grooming

 

The coat of the Standard is harsh, wiry and short with a dense undercoat. All over grooming is required at least twice a week. Hand stripping is a must for the show ring but clipping is straightforward and easy for the smart family pet.

Grooming Requirements	More than once a week
Amount of Hair Shed	Little

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