The Standard Schnauzer is a working farm dog that is one of the three variants of the Schnauzers: Miniature, Standard, and Giant. It is a medium-sized dog which is also known as Mittelschnauzer, Schnauzer, Wirehair Pinscher. As a gentle breed, it is best suited as a family companion that is active and energetic.

The owner of the Standard Schnauzer should be a very active dog that can be kept in an apartment as long as they are provided with regular exercise. The appearance of this breed is strong, a well-muscled body that is covered with dense wire coat. It has arched eyebrows and stiff mustache and whiskers.

Origin and History

The origin of the Standard Schnauzer was in Germany. It was used as a farm dog that used to multitask as ratters, herders, guardians, and hunters. It was earlier known as the Wirehaired Pinscher which was first exhibited in the Third German International Show in Hanover in 1879.

Standard Schnauzer was used in Germany as a police dog. In the USA, it is recognized as a terrier dog but in its native land, Germany always classified Schnauzers as working dogs.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Standard Schnauzer in 1904 under the group of working dogs. It ranks 89 of 193 AKC registered breeds as of 2019.

Is Standard Schnauzer Child-Friendly?

Yes, Standard Schnauzer is a child-friendly dog that gets along with children pretty well. They are very loving and affectionate towards kids, so they enjoy their company. They make great playmates as they are playful and energetic.

Although they are friendly and gentle breeds, their interaction with small kids should always be supervised to avoid any kind of accidents.

Standard Schnauzer posing for photo with children
Standard Schnauzer posing for a photo with children.
Image Source: Instagram-@vontutgut

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The Standard Schnauzer is a well-tempered dog that is friendly, alert, and courageous. This nature of them makes an excellent companion for a family as well as a great watchdog. With proper socialization and introduction, they get along with guest in the house well.

Behavior: As an active working dog, Standard Schnauzer needs a good amount of exercise, so it is necessary to take them out for a walk or hiking to keep themselves healthy and content. If they do not get the required exercise, they will show depressed, anxious, and destructive behavior.

Personality: The personality of the Standard Schnauzer is gentle, active, and affectionate. They do great in a family with loving and active people that meets their expectations. It is a smart dog which sometimes becomes stubborn. So a patience leadership is required.

Trainability

Training Standard Schnauzer can be quiet challenging as they are smart and have a mind of their own. To train them, one should be an experienced dog owner who can establish a consistent and firm leadership on them.

Use positive reinforcement as a method of training. Reward them with delicious treats and use lots of vocal praises as to motivate them and make them focused on the training.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqeqU0-qcDY
Video of Standard Schnauzer training.

Facts

  • The mustache that the Standard Schnauzer has is not just for the show but it is to protect them from vermin bite.
  • It first appeared in the United States in the early 1900s.
  • It was used by German police as guard dogs.

Health Issues

General HealthHealthy
Common Health IssuesHip Dysplasia, Follicular Dermatitis,
Cataracts, Patellar Luxation
HypoallergenicYes
Vaccination RequiredRabies, Canine Parainfluenza,
Canine Distemper,
Canine Parvovirus, Kennel Cough,
Leptospirosis, Canine Coronavirus
Sheddingone to Minimal Shedder
DroolingLow Drooler
GroomingProfessional Grooming Required
Weight Gain PotentialLow
Separation AnxietyModerate Chance
AllergiesNone
Diets and SupplementsProtein: 25%
Fat: 8%
Digestive Enzymes
Probiotics
Multivitamins

The Standard Schnauzer is healthy breeding in general. However, it can face some of the following canine diseases during their lifetime.

  • Hip Dysplasia: The Standard Schnauzer can face the problem of hip dysplasia. It is a condition that is caused due to dislocation or underdeveloped of the hip joints. It causes lameness on the back of your dog and slowly turns to a sharp pain on the back. Consult a vet for the proper treatment.
  • Cataracts: The dog with cataracts have cloudiness in the eyes. It will block the vision of your dog so before it gets worse, take your dog to a vet for a proper treatment immediately.

Colors

The Standard Schnauzer comes in the following colors according to American Kennel Club:

  • Black
  • Pepper and Salt

Puppies

standard schnauzer puppies
Standard Schnauzer puppies.
Image Source: castlewoodstandardschnauzers.com

Cost: The average cost of the Standard Schnauzer puppy is between $1200-$1800 USD. The cost might rise with the quality of the breeders.

Size

Height: The average height of the Standard Schnauzer is between 17.5-19.5 inches.

Weight: The average weight of the Standard Schnauzer is between 30-55 pounds.

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