YOU WANT TO ADOPT A STANDARD SCHNAUZER?
Please take a few minutes to read about the characteristics of the Standard Schnauzer. The Standard is known as "the dog with the human brain", while being an exaggeration, it does illustrate the mental abilities of the breed. The Standard is the original of the three sizes, miniature, standard and giant. Listed are areas you need to consider before you decide to share your home with a Standard Schnauzer.

SIZE:
Although sizes may vary, the correct size for males is 18" - 20" at the shoulder with a weight between 40 - 50 pounds, and females 17" - 19" at the shoulder with a weight between 35 - 45 pounds.

EXERCISE:
The Standard Schnauzer is a robust, exuberant dog who loves to play and needs daily exercise. A fenced yard is highly recommended. If motivated, Standards can jump a six foot fence.

GROOMING:
All dogs require grooming, whether it be nail clipping, ear cleaning, or brushing. Standard Schnauzers require more than the average dog. Beard and leg furnishings must be combed and brushed often to keep from matting. Pets may be machine clippered, which is quicker than stripping; however, dogs that are shown must be stripped to maintain correct coat texture and body outline. A properly groomed Standard should not shed.

HEALTH & CARE:
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. Feeding one medium sized dog for a year will cost approximately $250-$300. Many expenses are hidden in the grocery bill (food, dishes, leashes, collars, brushes, shampoos and toys). The Standard, if given good care, will usually live 12 to 15 years.

TRAINING:
The combination of intelligence and spirit can make him a handful and he requires training and discipline. The training must be consistent; a Standard Schnauzer will work readily and happily if praised for positive behavior rather than punished for bad behavior. He must be made to understand that you, the owner, are the "pack leader" or he will claim this title for himself. Local kennel clubs in your area offer training classes in obedience and the cost is nominal.

GUARDIAN:
As a home guardian the Standard Schnauzer excels. He readily accepts friends of the family, but warns of strangers with a strong voice. He is alert to his surroundings and aware of change in his environment. His reaction is usually to hold rather than to attack, and unless provoked, has been known to keep an intruder cornered for quite a long time. He is good with children and appoints himself as their guardian and protector.

TIME:
Standard Schnauzers are "people" dogs. They need to be with, around, and near humans because they thrive on love and attention. Consider your lifestyle and household schedule - do you travel a lot, do you work long hours, are you busy with your children's activities? In other words, do you have time to give the love and attention a Standard Schnauzer needs?

ADDICTIVE:
Few people own only one Standard Schnauzer. They simply are habit forming! Contrary to popular opinion, they are NOT cheaper by the dozen. If you have two Standard Schnauzers, it will cost you twice as much and so on and so on ......

When a dog is adopted, he should become your companion for LIFE. His needs for love and security are no different from our own.

If you are still interested, and we hope you are, welcome to the family of STANDARD SCHNAUZER ADMIRERS!

THE SSCA RESCUE COMMITTEE CANNOT VOUCH FOR THE TEMPERAMENT, HEALTH, OR LINE OF THE DOG, OTHER THAN AS STATED IN OUR PAPERWORK AS THE DOG MAY HAVE BEEN IN AN UNUSUAL SITUATION AND IN MANY CASES WITHOUT HISTORY AND MAY NOT SHOW ITS TRUE NATURE OR HEALTH UNTIL FINALLY PLACED.



Click here for an PDF version of the SSCA rescue application.