There isn't much the sporty-looking Standard Schnauzer can't do. They were bred to guard the carts of German farmers while they sold their wares at market; and since 1900, they've been strong competitors in the show ring. These days, you'll find super-smart Schnauzers detecting cancer, sniffing out bombs, aiding in search and rescue missions, and serving as therapy and hearing dogs.
Originally from Germany, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 35-45 pounds and lives an average of 12-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Working group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Germany |
| Breed group | Working |
| Average lifespan | 13-16 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 97 |
| Family | Livestock dog |
| Date of origin | Middle ages |
| Original function | Guardian |
| Today's function | Guardian |
| Average size of male | Height: 18.5-19.5 Weight: 40-45 |
| Average size of female | Height: 18.5-19.5 Weight: 40-45 |
| Other name | Mittel schnauzer |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A STANDARD SCHNAUZER'S PERSONALITY?
Standard Schnauzers are smart, spirited, smart, fearless, SMART, reliable, and SMART. Did we mention this dog is smart? She's also affectionate and somewhat playful, and completely devoted to her family — especially “her” kids when they play together supervised. Their sense of fun and mischief makes these dogs wonderful canine companions to beloved humans and other family pets to which they've been socialized early. They can, however, be suspicious of unknown dogs.
WHAT IS STANDARD SCHNAUZER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a very active breed. These energetic smarty-paws need lots of physical and mental stimulation if you want them to be good housemates. Standard Schnauzers will need long walks every day, or shorter runs coupled with off-leash exploring sessions and playtime with you. These dogs are alert and lively, making them wonderful guardians. Some Standard Schnauzers don't do well in dog parks.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A STANDARD SCHNAUZER?
Though they are sometimes willful, Standard Schnauzers are a biddable breed that responds well to training. Reward good behavior with games or food.
Remember how bright these dogs are — they learn fast, but they also get bored quickly. Keep training sessions short and fun. A nightly review of a few tricks before dinner could be good bonding work for you both.
This breed often excels at tracking, herding, obedience, rally, and agility dog sports.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO STANDARD SCHNAUZERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Standard Schnauzers don't shed much and are among the breeds recommended by the American Kennel Club for allergy sufferers. Their coats are wiry and hard, and require combing a few times a week. If you're showing your Standard Schnauzer, she'll need to be hand-stripped. Otherwise you might want to schedule regular clippings.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO STANDARD SCHNAUZERS HAVE?
As a breed, Standard Schnauzers are generally healthy. Some may be susceptible to skin conditions, eye disease, and hip dysplasia.
