Characteristics
of the Standard Schnauzer Breed
Please take a few minutes to read about the characteristics of
the Standard Schnauzer. The Standard is known as "the dog
with the human brain," while being an exaggeration, it does
illustrate the mental abilities of the breed. The Standard is the
original of the three sizes, miniature, standard and giant.
Listed are areas you need to consider before you decide to share
your home with a Standard Schnauzer.
Size:
- Standard Schnauzers are medium-sized. Males range between
18" - 20" at the shoulder with a weight between
40 - 50 pounds. Females are between 17" - 19"
at the shoulder with a weight between 35 - 45 pounds.
This is the correct size, but can vary in height and
weight.
Exercise:
- The Standard Schnauzer is a robust, exuberant dog who
loves to play and needs daily exercise. A fenced yard is
highly recommended and keep in mind that Standards can
jump a six foot fence, if motivated.
Grooming:
- All dogs require grooming, whether it be nail clipping,
ear cleaning, or brushing. Standard Schnauzers require
more than the average dog. Beard and leg furnishings must
be combed and brushed often to keep from matting. Pets
may be machine clipped, which is quicker than stripping.
On dogs that are shown, the coat must be stripped to
maintain correct coat texture and body outline. A
properly groomed Standard should not shed.
Health & Care:
- The breed is relatively healthy. Although hip dysplasia
is present, severe hip dysplasia is rare. There are cases
of flea and food allergies and some skin problems. Most
breeds have some of the above and some Standards will
never have allergies , skin problems, or hip problems,
but we feel it is best for you to know the worst. Feeding
one medium sized dog for a year will cost approximately
$250-$300. Many expenses are hidden in the grocery bill
(food, dishes, leashes, collars, brushes, shampoos and
toys). The Standard, if given good care, will usually
live 12 to 15 years.
Training:
- The combination of intelligence and spirit can make him a
handful and he requires training and discipline. The
training must be consistent; a Standard Schnauzer will
work readily and happily if praised for positive behavior
rather than punished for bad behavior. He must be made to
understand that you, the owner, are the "pack
leader" or he will claim this title for himself.
Local kennel clubs in your area offer training classes in
obedience and the cost is nominal.
Guardian:
- As a home guardian the Standard Schnauzer excels. He
readily accepts friends of the family, but warns of
strangers with a strong voice. He is alert to his
surroundings and aware of change in his environment. His
reaction is usually to hold rather than to attack, and
unless provoked, has been known to keep an intruder
cornered for quite a long time. He is good with children
and appoints himself as their guardian and protector.
Time:
- Standard Schnauzers are "people" dogs. They
need to be with, around, and near humans because they
thrive on love and attention. Consider your lifestyle and
household schedule - do you travel a lot, do you work
long hours, are you busy with your children's activities?
In other words, do you have time to give
the love and attention a Standard Schnauzer needs?
Addictive:
- Few people own only one Standard Schnauzer. They simply
are habit forming! Contrary to popular opinion, they are
NOT cheaper by the dozen. If you have two Standard
Schnauzers, it will cost you twice as much and so on and
so on ......
When a dog becomes part of your family, he should become your
companion for LIFE. His needs for love and security are no
different from our own.
If you are still interested, and we hope you are, welcome to
the family of STANDARD SCHNAUZER ADMIRERS!
The Housekeeper's Schnauzer
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History of the Standard
Schnauzer Breed
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Manufacturing Home Page
korppret@deltamfg.com