A salt and pepper Standard Schnauzer.
A salt and pepper Standard Schnauzer.

Standard Schnauzer

avatarAlanna Mallory, BS, LVT, VTS (SAIM)

Height17 - 19"
Weight33 lbs
TypeWorking
Life Expectancy14 - 16 years
Area of OriginGermany

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

The Standard Schnauzer is a German working dog with a history dating back to the Middle Ages. They have been used as guard dogs, for driving cattle, and to get rid of household pests, like rodents. The breed is lively and intelligent, primarily enjoying active play with members of the family. Their handsome beard and salt & pepper haircoat are two of the breed's most recognizable traits. They enjoy playing and interacting with family members and would do best in a household prepared for an active dog. Standard Schnauzers can be strong willed, so early obedience training is recommended. However, once properly trained, they can be fantastic service or therapy dogs, due to their loving and attentive nature. The breed sheds minimally, but does require regular grooming. Overall, the Standard Schnauzer makes a great companion for families with children of all ages.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Are Standard Schnauzers From?

The Standard Schnauzer is a German breed that has been traced back to the 14th century, and was originally known as the Wire-Haired Pinscher. In 1879, a Wire-Haired Pinscher named Schnauzer won first class for the breed. It is unclear whether the breed’s name was inspired by this champion or if it stems from the German word schnauze, which means muzzle.

Cross breeding of the Wolfspitz and black German Poodles in the early 19th century resulted in a breed that most resembles today’s Standard Schnauzer. Further cross breeding resulted in the Miniature and Giant Schnauzer, the latter of which is the newest variety of the breed.

By the early 1900s, the breed was known as the Schnauzer and had officially arrived in the US. The Schnauzer Club of America was established in 1925 and was composed of both Miniatures and Standards. When breed standards developed in 1929, it prompted a split within the group, leading to two individual clubs in 1933.

The Standard Schnauzer has maintained its popularity over the years due to his impressive beard and lovable personality.

Where Are Standard Schnauzers From?

The Standard Schnauzer is a German breed that has been traced back to the 14th century, and was originally known as the Wire-Haired Pinscher. In 1879, a Wire-Haired Pinscher named Schnauzer won first class for the breed. It is unclear whether the breed’s name was inspired by this champion or if it stems from the German word schnauze, which means muzzle.

Cross breeding of the Wolfspitz and black German Poodles in the early 19th century resulted in a breed that most resembles today’s Standard Schnauzer. Further cross breeding resulted in the Miniature and Giant Schnauzer, the latter of which is the newest variety of the breed.

By the early 1900s, the breed was known as the Schnauzer and had officially arrived in the US. The Schnauzer Club of America was established in 1925 and was composed of both Miniatures and Standards. When breed standards developed in 1929, it prompted a split within the group, leading to two individual clubs in 1933.

The Standard Schnauzer has maintained its popularity over the years due to his impressive beard and lovable personality.

Care

What Kind of Diet Does a Standard Schnauzer Need?

Standard Schnauzers need a diet that specifically caters to the age of the dog. Snacking should be kept to a minimum as well, since the breed can become overweight if overfed.

Caring for a Standard Schnauzer

What Kind of Diet Does a Standard Schnauzer Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Standard Schnauzer Need?

Are Standard Schnauzers Healthy Dogs?

How Much Training Does a Standard Schnauzer Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Standard Schnauzer Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Standard Schnauzer Need?

Standard Schnauzers need a diet that specifically caters to the age of the dog. Snacking should be kept to a minimum as well, since the breed can become overweight if overfed.

What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Standard Schnauzer?

The Standard Schnauzer stands 17 to 19 inches tall and weighs approximately 33 pounds. They are a medium-sized dog with a muscular build, primarily known for their wiry, salt & pepper or black coat and extraordinary beard.

The Standard Schnauzer’s muzzle is strong with a long, handsome beard and large, black nose. They have bushy, expressive eyebrows and dark eyes. Their ears are set high on the skull and either V-shaped or cropped.

Standard Schnauzers have a solid, muscular body with a medium-width chest.

Traditionally, Schnauzer tails were docked to avoid injury while hunting.

The Standard Schnauzer has straight, wide-set forelimbs with medium-length hair. Their feet are small with arched toes.

The Standard Schnauzer has a wiry haircoat, which consists of a soft undercoat and rough topcoat. Hair is relatively short on the flank and back, but rather long on the chest, fore and hindlimbs, and face.

Hindlegs consist of muscular thighs and small, arched toes. They are parallel to the front legs.

Standard Schnauzer Facts

1

The Standard Schnauzer has been a muse for artists like Cranach and Rembrandt.

2

Since the Schnauzer has been a devoted protector of children for centuries, the breed has been nicknamed kinderwachter, which is German for "child guard."

3

The German army uses Standard Schnauzers as aids to the Red Cross.

Other Breeds to Explore

Choosing a Giant Schnauzer
Choosing a Kerry Blue Terrier
Choosing a German Pinscher

References

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