The Standard Schnauzer is the oldest of the three breeds of Schnauzers, the other two being the Miniature Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer. The breed is native to Germany and was used as a barnyard ratter and guard dog. He was first introduced to North America in the 1920s and was originally classified as a terrier but was transferred to the Working Group in 1945.
He is known as "the dog with the human brain", noted for his bravery and devotion. The Standard Schnauzer is an active, strong, and robust dog who makes a good family companion and needs lots of regular exercise — at a minimum, an hour of hard play a day (swimming, running, hiking, playing fetch, etc.), a leisurely stroll once a day is not enough for this active breed.
The Standard Schnauzer is truly versatile — Today, he is still used as a guard dog and he is also seen competing in conformation, obedience, tracking, and agility. In addition, he is seen working in Search and Rescue and his calm and sensitive disposition make him ideal to work as a Therapy Dog.
In appearance, he is a medium size dog with a very aristocratic look. The outer coat is harsh, hard and wiry with a soft undercoat. The coat is longer on the muzzle and over the eyes, forming a beard and eyebrows. His colouring is either salt and pepper or solid black.
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Health Issues:
The Standard Schnauzer is known to be a very healthy breed with an average life expectancy is 13 to 16 years. However, like all breeds of dogs, certain health disorders have been seen in the breed, including Hip Dysplasia and some eye problems.
If you are considering the adoption of a Standard Schnauzer puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. The Standard Schnauzer Club of America recommends that all breeding stock be x-rayed free of hip dysplasia and that eye exams be performed annually. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards
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AKC STANDARD SCHNAUZER VIDEO
25 Min Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Grooming Information:
The Standard Schnauzer, like all breeds requires basic maintenance such as nails clipped, ears cleaned, and coat brushed. In addition, the beard and leg hair requires regular combing to prevent matting and the coat must be hand-stripped or clipped every four to six months.
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PET GROOMING THE SCHNAUZER VIDEO
45 Min Video Edition, Published by Sonnen Productions
This is one of the breed grooming videos from Sonnen productions under the guidance of Michael Kemp, a top handler and groomer.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Training Resources:
The Standard Schnauzer is a very intelligent breed with an excellent memory. They learn quickly and retain just about everything learned. If allowed to do so, however, they will try to take over. Training should be done in a consistent and firm manner but not rough.
- Training — For information on training your Standard Schnauzer, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Herding Dogs — A new section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website which includes training and general information about Herding/Stock Dogs; listing of Stock Dog Clubs and Associations; listing of upcoming shows and events; and more.
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
