Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer is a medium-sized dog that is the prototype of all Schnauzer breeds. It was developed in its native Germany as a livestock and farmstead guardian, and to keep to farm free of vermin. It takes its name from its characteristic mustache and beard "schnauze"� in German. Although it may seem at first glance to share some common ancestry with the British terriers of wiry coat, in fact it developed from the older herding and livestock guarding breeds of continental Europe. The Standard Schnauzer is a robust, sturdy, athletic dog. It is squarely built and of medium bone, with well-defined musculature. The backline falls slightly and steadily from shoulder to croup. It stands an average 17-20 inches tall at the shoulder. It possesses a dense, rough, wiry coat that is always either solid black, or salt and pepper (varying shades of gray). The coat is kept in a characteristic trim that emphasizes long, arched eyebrows shading the eyes and a long beard and mustache that give the dog a very distinguished appearance. The hair on legs and chest is left long to emphasize the overall appearance of strength. The Standard Schnauzer carries its head very high and the neck is slightly arched, giving it an aristocratic bearing as it moves. In the United States and Canada the dewclaws are removed, and ears and tail docked. Outside North America they are most often left natural. The Standard Schauzer moves quickly and with athleticism as it walks. The Standard Schnauzer features prominently in the paintings of many of the most important painters from the 15th and 16th centuries, including Rembrandt. In the medieval market square of the town of Mechlinburg, Germany, stands a 14th-century statue of a hunter accompanied by a schnauzer. At that time it was already widely utilized as an all-around working farm dog: it kept watch over household and family, guarded livestock and supplies, and kept the barn free of vermin. It has long been known in its native land as a "minder of children"�. It is believed that the Schnauzer was developed by crossing the German Wolfspitz with Poodle and pinscher type dogs. Early in its existence the Schnauzer was referred to as the "Wire-haired Pinscher"�. In the 1870's German breeders took note of this valuable native breed, and took steps to promote it. At this time the work began to develop the Miniature and Giant variations as well. The Standard Schnauzer was first exhibited in 1879 at the Third German International Show held in Hanover. Germans were proud of this courageous breed and its fame quickly spread to many countries across Europe, where today clubs devoted to the breed abound. In the early decades of the 20th century, Germany's marketplaces were full of Standard Schnauzers who stood guard over carts of supplies while their owners passed time at the alehouse. These dogs were considered second to none in terms of bravery and ability to reason. In the First World War, they were widely used to carry dispatches and as Red Cross aides. They have also been used in police work. In the United States and Britain the Standard Schnauzer has historically been used chiefly as a personal guardian dog. The breed was first brought to the U.S. in 1900, and the first breed club was formed in 1925, and split in 1933 into two clubs to represent the Miniature Schnauzer and the Standard Schnauzer separately. The Standard Schnauzer is a highly energetic dog that requires daily vigorous exercise. It does not do well in a confined space due to its high energy level and very active mind. It makes an excellent hiking or jogging partner for the active owner. Without adequate opportunity to expend mental and physical energy, and adequate space in which to move, this breed can easily become neurotic and destructive. The Standard Schnauzer sheds very little and has little dog odor to its coat; it can be a suitable breed for those with pet allergies. Its coat does, however, require regular care. The feathered areas on the legs become easily matted, as does the beard if not brushed regularly. These areas should be groomed at least twice a week. The owner may find that the beard tends to pick up all manner of dirt, water and debris and will need a daily washing. The Standard Schnauzer must be taught very young to tolerate regular handling and grooming, because it is a headstrong breed that can become stubborn. The Standard Schnauzer exhibits very few health problems. Breeding dogs should be screened regularly for hip and elbow dysplasia, and should also be certified to be free of any inherited eye disease. The average lifespan of the Standard Schnauzer is 12 to 15 years. This is a highly intelligent breed that uses its mind to problem solve. Like all guardian type working dogs, the Standard Schnauzer requires a strong, dog-savvy owner and firm, consistent and early training. When training is too repetitive, this breed can easily become bored and distracted and refuse to work. Training can be made more interesting by varying the location, the method, and the tools as much as possible. It is also useful to exercise the Standard Schnauzer before training sessions to burn off any excess energy that can work against allowing the dog to focus. Standard Schnauzers are active, affectionate companions to family. They enjoy the company of children and other pets. The Standard Schnauzer is a highly alert, diligent watchdog and a fearless guardian. They can be wary of visitors and other strangers; it is important to socialize this breed early to a variety of people, places, and other animals, so that overly aggressive tendencies can be avoided later. Owners of the Standard Schnauzer participate in obedience competitions, agility, flyball, Frisbee competition, herding trials, search and rescue, and even water dog sports.

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