Standard Schnauzers

Standard schnauzers are originally a German breed, descendants of herding, ratting, and guardian breeds during the Middle Ages.

The breed has appeared in several paintings, statues, and tapestries with Rembrandt, Durer, and Reynolds.

The Standard Schnauzer is the original Schnauzer from which the Miniature and Giant breed variations were developed (in the late 19th century). They have been shown in competition since the 1870's and first appeared in the United States about 1900.

The Standard Schnauzer has been used by the Red Cross for guard duty during WW1. They have been used by both the German and American police departments. The Standard Schnauzer has, also, been used for drug and bomb detection as well as search and rescue dogs.

Standard Schnauzers should be between 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder.

Schnauzers have a harsh, wiry outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat.

Coat color can vary between salt and pepper of gray, black, and white.

The schnauzer is a dog with minimal shedding concerns.

The hair on the face, is a little longer, to where it forms a beard at the muzzle and long eyebrows.

Overall, Schnauzers are robust and sturdy dogs that are heavier for their height.

Traditionally, the ears were cropped and the tail docked.

The standard schnauzer is a sociable, intelligent, and alert dog.

The breed is known to be comedians, finding their own entertainment when you are busy.

They can make formidable guard dogs, yet they are great family pets.

If properly raised and trained, standard schnauzers are reliable companions with children and adults, alike.

Schnauzers are a very enthusiastic breed and thrive on interaction with any family activities. Therefore they suit an active family with older children, but can be very gentle with young children if properly trained and socialized.

Remember to always supervise any playtime with smaller, younger children.

Although, they are very active dogs, they can live happily in apartments with the proper exercise.

The Standard Schnauzer is a relatively healthy breed, that can life an average of 15 years with proper nutrition and care.

Pictures can be found at flickr.com.