History of the Breed Standard Schnauzer
The “middle” or standard schnauzer was the prototype and oldest of the three breeds – the miniature, standard, and giant. Evidence of the breed extends as far back as the 14 th century. Many paintings of the 15 th and 16 th centuries depict this breed in family portraits, revealing its position as a pet and companion. The schnauzer is a blend of both working and hunting terriers, crossed with wirehaired pinschers, black German poodles and gray wolf spitz. Some say that the breed was also crossed with the Beaver Dog, a rough-coated dog similar to the terrier. The resulting breed was an astute rat catcher and a respected guard dog. In fact, at the start of the 20 th century, these schnauzers were popular among farmers for guarding their carts at the marketplace. The standard schnauzer was first exhibited as a wire-haired pinscher in the Third German International Show at Hanover in 1879. By 1900, they were highly popular show dogs overseas, but Americans did not fall in love quite as quickly. Although German breeders classified it as a working dog, Americans initially considered it to be a terrier. It was later reclassified as a working dog. The dog’s intelligence earned it a job as a dispatch carrier and aide during World War I. It was also used in police work along with the giant schnauzer. The end of World War II brought more public attention to this breed, and the Schnauzer Club of America was formed in 1925. Still, the standard schnauzer has not achieved the popularity of the miniature or giant of the breed.
Standard Schnauzer Size and Appearance
This hearty breed is square-shaped in proportion with plenty of muscle and bone. It has a quick, powerful stride and an intense look. Its coat is thick and wiry colored in salt and pepper, solid black, or black and silver with a soft undercoat. It is well recognized for its whiskers, moustache, and bushy eyebrows.
Standard Schnauzer Temperament
The standard schnauzer is an active breed that is friendly and playful. It is highly intelligent resulting in a personality that can be stubborn and mischievous. This schnauzer is devoted to its family, making it an excellent guard dog or watchdog. It is great with children and other pets, although it can be aggressive toward strange dogs or other animals. It is wary of strangers and can be overly protective if it has not had proper socialization and training.
Recommended Maintenance of the Standard Schnauzer
The standard schnauzer has a harsh coat that needs combing twice a week, paying special attention to the leg and beard hair, which tends to mat. Professional grooming and shaping should be done every season as well. Trim around the eyes and ears as needed, and clean its long whiskers after meals. This energetic breed needs vigorous exercise daily, either a long walk or a romp in a safe area. It can live outdoors in temperate climates, but does better when allowed access to both indoors and a yard. It can also do well in an apartment as long as adequate exercise is provided. The standard schnauzer can be stubborn, but is a quick learner with a willingness to please. Training should be consistent and it readily responds to its master’s voice.
Standard Schnauzer Health
• Life span: 12 – 14 years
• Major concerns: none
• Minor concerns: CHD, follicular dermatitis
• Occasionally seen: none
• Suggested tests: hip
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