Schnauzer

Standard Schnauzers were developed in Germany and were originally used as watch dogs and ratters. These smart-looking little dogs are most known for their bushy whiskers, mustache and eyebrows. The name Schnauzer comes from the German word schnauze, which means snout.

Schnauzers come in several colors including salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black. Chocolate, white and parti-colors are also becoming very popular. Nevertheless, these colors are not allowed in conformation shows sponsored by the American Kennel Club. Full grown Schnauzers vary in weight from 30 to 50 pounds. Just like many other terrier breeds, Standard Schnauzers have a stiff, wiry overcoat, with a soft undercoat. Their hair is typically short on the body and longer on the face and legs. Their small, triangular ears are set high on the head and fold over just at the tip. Their tails are usually docked short.

Personality

The Standard Schnauzer is a spunky and fearless pet making it a terrific watch dog. They have tons of energy and thrive in many different areas including competitive obedience, agility, tracking, hunting and even military work. They are also quite playful and affectionate and love to perform tricks. The Schnauzer dog craves human companionship making it an excellent pet to travel with. Many of them can be quite willful; however, early socialization can keep them from becoming too aggressive. If you choose to add a Standard Schnauzer to your home, be prepared to provide it with plenty of exercise and attention. If you are looking for an active dog that will bring a lot of joy and fun to your life, a Standard Schnauzer is a great choice. This is a highly versatile breed that can be trained to do many different things. When you add a Schnauzer to your home, you will be gaining not only a loyal protector, but a loving friend as well.

Breed Characteristics

Schnauzer Build Information

Schnauzers come in several colors including salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black. Chocolate, white and parti-colors are also becoming very popular. Nevertheless, these colors are not allowed in conformation shows sponsored by the American Kennel Club. Full grown Schnauzers vary in weight from 30 to 50 pounds. Just like many other terrier breeds, Standard Schnauzers have a stiff, wiry overcoat, with a soft undercoat. Their hair is typically short on the body and longer on the face and legs. Their small, triangular ears are set high on the head and fold over just at the tip. Their tails are usually docked short.

Behaviour and Personality

The Standard Schnauzer is a spunky and fearless pet making it a terrific watch dog. They have tons of energy and thrive in many different areas including competitive obedience, agility, tracking, hunting and even military work. They are also quite playful and affectionate and love to perform tricks. The Schnauzer dog craves human companionship making it an excellent pet to travel with. Many of them can be quite willful; however, early socialization can keep them from becoming too aggressive. If you choose to add a Standard Schnauzer to your home, be prepared to provide it with plenty of exercise and attention. If you are looking for an active dog that will bring a lot of joy and fun to your life, a Standard Schnauzer is a great choice. This is a highly versatile breed that can be trained to do many different things. When you add a Schnauzer to your home, you will be gaining not only a loyal protector, but a loving friend as well.

Appearance

The Standard Schnauzer's wiry coat is quite easy to take care of, but you will want to comb him daily to prevent him from becoming matted. Additionally, you may wish to have your pet clipped two to four times a year depending on the length of his hair. Since Schnauzers shed little to no hair, they make excellent pets for allergy sufferers. The pepper-and-salt or black colored coat is harsh and wiry when hand stripped and soft when clipped.

Schnauzer Common Health Conditions

The Schnauzer dog has an average lifespan of about 12 to 13 years, but many have been known to live as long as 16 years or even longer. These dogs generally do not suffer from any major health problems, but they can be susceptible to such minor issues as follicular dermatitis, congenital cataracts, and canine hip dysplasia.

Schnauzer Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

Due to the spunky and aggressive temperament of these dogs, they are not recommended for small children. If Standard Schnauzers are not kept busy, they can become extremely mischievous. The Standard Schnauzer originated before the miniature and giant versions. During World War I, many Schnauzers served as Red Cross aides and dispatch carriers