Description

The Standard Schnauzer is in the middle of the Schnauzer family with the Giant Schnauzer being larger and the Miniature Schnauzer smaller. Standard Schnauzer are an attractive, robust, intelligent and playful dog who makes a good companion and is generally good with children. The ears of Standard Schnauzer are usually cropped in the United States, but in Britain, it is illegal to crop the ears.

Size of Male: Height: 18.5-19.5 inches Weight: 35-58 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 17.5-18.5 inches Weight: 35-45 pounds

Temperament

The Standard Schnauzer is a fearless and protective dog. Standard Schnauzer makes a great watch and guard dog. Standard Schnauzer is lively, but not restless. High-spirited and affectionate, it has a personality of a Terrier. Clever, intelligent, demanding, and playful, Standard Schnauzers need companionship and are good dogs to travel with. This breed has a high learning rate, but can be quite willful and needs firm training. Standard Schnauzers may be very protective and dominant, guarding objects, places and people from other people. They should be socialized well when they are young to prevent over-protectiveness later in life. These energetic dogs need energetic and dominant owners, one who has the ability clearly demonstrate that they are the boss and not the dog. This breed does best with older considerate children.

Living Conditions

The Standard Schnauzer is a good dog for apartment life. Standard Schnauzer is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. However, do make sure you bring them out for a daily walk or at least running around in a yard if you have a yard.

Upkeep

The Standard Schnauzer needs daily exertion, either a long walk on leash, a vigorous game or an off-lead outing in a safe area. Standard Schnauzer can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it is better off dividing its time between house and yard. The harsh coat of Standard Schnauzer needs combing twice weekly, plus professional scissoring and shaping four times yearly. Shaping is done by clipping for pets and stripping for show dogs.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: hip dysplasia, follicular dermatitis

Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years