Standard Schnauzer
History of the breed
The Standard Schnauzer is the original breed of the three breeds of Schnauzer, and despite its wiry coat and general appearance, is not related to the British terriers. Rather, its origins are in old herding and guard breeds of Europe. The AKC classifies the Standard Schnauzer as Working Dog however this versatile breed is a robust, squarely built, medium-sized dog with aristocratic bearing, making it a popular subject of painters Sir Joshua Reynolds, Albrecht Dürer and Rembrandt.
Standard Schnauzers are typically Salt & Pepper or Black in color, and are known for exhibiting many of the "ideal" traits of any breed. These include high intelligence, agility, alert, reliable, strong with high endurance and loving companions. Standard Schnauzers are one of the oldest breeds with over 500 years of history. This breed of dog has been very popular in Europe, specifically Germany where it originated. The breed was first exhibited at a show in Hanover in 1879.
Standard Schnauzers are originally a German breed and are descended from herding, ratting and guardian breeds during the Middle Ages. They may be most closely related to the spitz-type breeds. Dogs very similar to today's schnauzers existed in the Middle Ages, and they have appeared several times in paintings, statues and tapestries with Rembrandt, Dürer and Reynolds all portraying them. Initially a dog of the peasant farmer, in the 19th century this breed captured the interest of the German dog fancy and they began to be bred to a standard of perfection.
The word "Schnauzer" (from the German word for 'snout') appeared for the first time in 1842 when used as a synonym for the Wire-haired Pinscher (the name under which the breed first competed at dog shows). The Standard Schnauzer is the original Schnauzer from which the Miniature and Giant breeds were developed in the late 19th century. They have been shown from the 1870's onwards and first appeared in the United States about 1900. Several Standards have been used in the USA for drug and bomb detection, and also as Search-and-Rescue dogs.
Appearance of the breed
Standard Schnauzers are typically Salt and Pepper or Black in color with a stiff and wiry fur coat. This hair will grow much like human hair and should be cut and groomed regularly. Ears and Tail are also typically docked when they are a puppy. This is usually done by the breeder, but not all breeders will do this. Like the Miniature Schnauzer and Giant Schnauzer, these breeds are most noted by their long beard giving them a regal and wise appearance. It is important to note, the Miniature Schnauzer and Giant Schnauzer were bred from the Standard Schnauzer, making the Standard Schnauzer the original and oldest of this breed of dog. This distinction is important as when talking about "Schnauzers" most will think of the Miniature Schnauzer and not realize it was bred down from the Standard Schnauzer. Same goes for the Giant Schnauzer.
Standard Schnauzer "males ideally are 18-20 inches high at the shoulders and weigh 35-50 pounds. The females ideally are 17-19 inches high at the shoulders and generally weigh 30-45 pounds.
This breed has little to no shedding.
Temperament of the breed
Standard Schnauzer is a squarely-built, very energetic, medium-sized dog with a stiff, wiry coat. It is a robust and sturdy working dog, yet small enough in stature not to be overwhelming" This very intelligent breed is not only a very loyal family dog who will protect your home from visitors with a deep and robust bark.
This breed also is known for being very easy to train, non-shedding, adapts well to any weather, including snow, and great with kids and adults alike. It is ideal to socialize from the start. Their intelligent and curious personality require a strong willed owner who can be consistent and firm with training and commands. According to the SSDA “The Standard Schnauzer is considered a high-energy dog. Standard Schnauzers need ample exercise not only for physical well-being, but also for emotional well-being. The minimum amount an adult dog should get is the equivalent of a one-mile walk at least three times a day. These walks should be brisk enough to keep the dog at a steady trotting pace in order to keep the dog in prime physical condition. The Standard Schnauzer puppy is constantly exploring, learning and testing his limits. As adults, they are always ready for a walk in the woods, a ride in the car, a training session or any other activity that allows them to be with their owner. This is a breed that knows how to be on the alert, even when relaxing by the feet of their owner.
Standard Schnauzers are extremely versatile at just about anything you do with them, including dog sports such as agility, obedience, tracking, Disc dog, Flyball and even herding.
Health Concerns of the breed
Overall, the Standard Schnauzer is a very healthy breed. Standard Schnauzers tend to be highly adaptable and resistance to weather and illness. Breeders and Standard Schnauzer enthusiasts have worked hard "to insure that no disease or problem that is possibly genetic in nature ever becomes a widespread problem in this otherwise very healthy breed. It was only through the efforts of concerned breeders many years ago that the problem of Hip Dysplasia has been sharply reduced in the United States."
Although rare, Eye troubles such as glaucoma, Hip Dysplasia or ear infections will occasionally crop up, but overall this breed of Standard Schnauzers are hearty and if well groomed and maintained, typically die from old age rather then other health issues. The strong health of the Standard Schnauzer, along with little to no shedding, and high intelligence, makes this an excellent breed for any family. "Standard Schnauzers are above-average as compared with most other breeds when it comes to health issues.
Standard Schnauzers live an average of 13 to 16 extremely active years. Most Standard Schnauzer owners find that only an annual visit to their veterinarian for a check-up and routine shots is required.
