About Standard Schnauzers
Sociable... Alert... Comedian... Guard... Companion...
The Standard Schnauzer
is a handsome, robust, squarely built, medium sized dog with aristocratic bearing.
The original of the 3 sizes of Schnauzers, he is pepper and salt or solid black in
color with a wiry minimal-shedding coat. Standard Schnauzers are noted for guarding
the home and for their affectionate devotion.
Known as excellent family companions, the Standard Schnauzer also is outstanding
as a working dog excelling in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, herding
and therapy. Please explore our site and see our Standard Schnauzers at work and
play.
THE STANDARD SCHNAUZER is a squarely-built, very energetic, medium-sized dog with a stiff, wiry coat. It is a robust and sturdy working dog, yet small enough in stature not to be overwhelming. These traits, combined with a coat which has minimal shedding and "doggy" odor, would lead some to believe this is the ideal dog. However, it is what is on the inside of this extremely agile body that has intrigued fanciers for centuries. This sometimes mischievous, quick and active dog is in reality a reliable working dog with a superbly intelligent mind. This is the dog that is often called "the dog with the human brain".
A FAMILY DOG
that thrives best on close interaction with his human family, it needs the
proper outlet for its above-average intelligence that only living as a
family dog can provide. The Standard Schnauzer possesses a very clever,
inquisitive, creative and sometimes stubbornly determined mind along with
a great sense of self-dignity. Properly and carefully raised, they make
an affectionate friend and confidante for the children of the immediate family.
HOME GUARDIAN
is the Standard Schnauzer's
middle name. It is very territorial, and the family home is its castle.
The arrival of each new stranger is announced with a deep bark that belies
its mid-sized stature. Properly introduced, the Standard Schnauzer will accept
close family friends into the home but warn away strangers with a deep bark and
strong vigor that inspires respect from all.
MEDIUM-SIZED
in stature, males ideally
are 18-20 inches high at the shoulders and weigh 35-50 pounds. The females
ideally are 17-19 inches high at the shoulders and generally weigh 30-45 pounds.
LEARNING VERY QUICKLY
, the Standard Schnauzer can
ideally excel in all performance dog sports. Like a mischievous and very bright
child, they need consistent rules and a firm, but not rough, hand. They will
get away with whatever they can and will "rule the roost" before you
know it, if allowed. One cannot ever forget there is a Standard Schnauzer in the house.
REQUIREMENTS:
THE STANDARD SCHNAUZER is a
very adaptable dog. Although some breeders will not sell a puppy to anyone who
does not have a fenced yard and others will require at least one non-working
family member, the truth is that the Standard Schnauzer fits into almost any
lifestyle or environment. Many Standard Schnauzers will accept sharing the house
with cats, especially if introduced to them at an early age. However, small
members of the rodent family kept as pets should always be kept in secure cages
to ensure their safety. The hereditary instincts of their origins as a rat-catcher
are extremely strong in many of today's Standard Schnauzers.
The Standard Schnauzer is considered a high-energy dog. They need ample
exercise not only for physical well-being, but for emotional well-being.
The minimum amount an adult dog should get is the equivalent of a one-mile
walk at least three times a day. These walks should be brisk enough to keep the
dog at a steady trotting pace in order to keep the dog in prime physical condition.
The Standard Schnauzer puppy is constantly exploring, learning and testing his limits.
As adults, they are always ready for a walk in the woods, a ride in the car, a
training session or any other activity that allows them to be with their owner.
This is a breed that knows how to be on the alert, even when relaxing by the feet
of their owner.