Standard Schnauzer
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Description:
The Standard Schnauzer comes from Germany
and is the original breed from which the
Giant and Miniature Schnauzers were derived.
This is a medium sized dog with a wiry,
pepper and salt or solid black coat and
a distinctive muzzle and bushy eyebrows.
The Standard Schnauzer has a proud stance,
is squarely built and is best known for
protecting his home and family. This breed
has been depicted in many paintings by famous
artists such as Rembrandt, Reynolds and
Dürer which date back as far as the
fifteenth century. In addition, there have
been dogs which were very similar to the
Standard Schnauzer dating back to the Middle
Ages. This is a working breed which was
most commonly used for farm duties, as a
ratter and a guardian at home as well as
in travel. It is claimed the Standard Schnauzer
was developed by crosses with the gray Wolfspitz
and black German Poodle.
The Standard Schnauzer was first exhibited
in Germany in the 1870s under its original
name, Wire-haired Pinscher. While it is
believed this breed was imported to the
United States sometime right around 1900,
there weren't very many and it was not until
after World War I, these dogs had more of
a presence in this country. The Standard
Schnauzer is very protective, loyal, highly
spirited and intelligent. As long as this
breed is properly raised, it makes for an
outstanding family companion.
The American Kennel Club recognized the
Standard Schnauzer in the Working Group
in 1904.
Height:
The height of Standard Schnauzer when measured
at the shoulder should be 18½ - 19½
inches (47 - 50 cm). Females are slightly
shorter and measure between 17½ inches
- 18½ inches (45 - 47 cm). The Standard
Schnauzer has a square build.
Weight:
The weight of a Standard Schnauzer is between
30 - 45 pounds (14 - 21 kg) and the female
weight range is between 30 - 40 pounds (14
- 18 kg).
Coat Type:
The Standard Schnauzer's coat is wiry, harsh
and very thick. The undercoat is dense and
soft and the outer coat is rough. Basic
grooming consists of regular brushing or
combing which will help prevent matting
and keep the coat in good condition. Hand-stripping
should be done every 4 - 6 months. Standard
Schnauzers are very light shedders and do
not have a doggie odor.
Color:
The color of the Standard Schnauzer's coat
is pepper and salt or solid black.
Temperament:
The Standard Schnauzer is very intelligent,
protective, highly spirited, affectionate
and alert. This breed makes an excellent
family pet as long as he is raised properly
and considered an actual part of the family
- which helps him thrive. The Standard Schnauzer
is very good with well behaved children.
These dogs which are always in a constant
alert mode, have a natural guarding instinct
and will sound off with a deep bark at strangers
or if something is out of the ordinary.
Proper training is necessary and should
be consistent and firm, but never harsh.
An owner of a Standard Schnauzer must always
be dominant as this is a very smart and
clever breed and will try to run the household
if given the opportunity. If a Standard
Schnauzer is allowed to control, behavior
problems will arise. These dogs have a lot
of energy and need daily exercise which
is excellent for the Standard Schnauzer's
physical and mental well being.
Health Concerns:
The Standard Schnauzer is generally
a very healthy breed although they can be
prone to eye disease and hip dysplasia.
The average life span of a Standard Schnauzer
is between 13 - 16 years.
Special Interest:
• The Standard Schnauzer was initially
known as Wire-haired Pinschers.
• Schnauze means muzzle in German.
• The Standard Schnauzer has an excellent
memory.
Classifications:
AKC: Working Group
ANKC: Utility Group 6
CKC: Working Dogs Group 3
FCI: Group 2 Section 1 Pinscher and Schnauzer
type
KC: Utility
NZKC: Utility
UKC: Herding
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