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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a medium, rugged dog with bushy eyebrows, whiskers and
a beard. He has a harsh, wiry outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat. Ideally, the
dog's height is the same as his length, resulting in a rather square impression.
The strong, arched neck should blend cleanly into the shoulders. The head is about
half as long as the back from withers to tail attachment. The muzzle and top of
the head should form parallel planes. The large nose is black. The dark brown eyes
are medium-sized ovals. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The front legs
are straight and parallel. Dewclaws should be removed on the legs. The feet are
small and cat-like. The front legs must appear straight from all angles. The topline
slopes slightly downward from the withers. The tail is set moderately high and carried
high in excitement. It should be docked to the second or not more than the third
joint. Cropping the ears is optional and they should sit erect. This breed comes
in solid black or salt-and-pepper.
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Temperament
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Standards are bold, perky, intelligent, protective, loyal and loving. They stick
closely with their owners at all times. They can be feisty and fairly dog aggressive,
but never intending to actually fight. This can be dangerous to the dog if they
go up against a larger dog. This dominant breed needs an experienced owner. They
are easy to train and need firm, consistent training with plenty of rewards. Without
the proper training, Standards may bite children and do best with children over
the age of 12. They are good watch dogs and mouse catchers. They should be well
socialized at a young age to prevent over-protectiveness. They make great travel
companions but some can be reserved with strangers.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 18-20" ; Weight: 30-45 lbs.
Female Height: 17-19" ; Weight: 30-40 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Standards are usually a healthy breed.
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Living Conditions
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Standard Schnauzers will do fine living in an apartment. They are active indoors
and will do fine without a yard.
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Exercise
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Standards have a huge need for regular and vigorous exercise. They love play sessions
where they can run free. They should have long walks every day. Make sure puppies
bones are mature before long walks are taken.
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Life Expectancy
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15 or more years
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed is easy to groom and only needs to be brushed weekly. Their
undercoat will become matted unless it is combed or brushed weekly. Clip out knots
and check under the coat often. This dog should be clipped all over to an even length
about four times a year. Continual ear care is important. Trim hair around the eyes
and ears with scissors and wipe around the whiskers after meals. This breed has
no doggie odor and sheds little or no hair making it good for allergy sufferers.
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Origin
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The Standard Schnauzer is the oldest of the Schnauzer breeds. They were used to
accompany messengers during World War I and as a vermin hunter in stables and on
farms. This breed was also given the name of "kinder watcher" because of their ability
to watch children. He is a popular and much-loved companion dog throughout the world.
His terrier background makes him alert and spunky, not a mellow lap dog. Today's
Standard temperament has been softened so that he is a delightful and charming companion.
He also excels in hunting, tracking, watchdogging, military work, agility, competitive
obedience and performing tricks. The Standard Schnauzer is recognized by the AKC
and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Working, UKC Guardian Dog
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