Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is one of the most dependable watch dogs a family could own. Extremely bold and very intelligent, this breed also makes the perfect pet for any dog owner that has a firm grip on training and lives an active lifestyle. The Standard Schnauzer tends to be on the dominant side and quite head-strong, which shows clearly when they are presented with strange people and other animals.
A Brief History Of The Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer bloodline dates back to the Middle Ages. It's area of origin of the breed is Germany. The original function of the dogs were as guardians and catching rats. Today the breed is simply regarded and owned as a loving, protective house dog.
The oldest of three Schnauzer breeds, the Standard version dates back to the 14th century. And even during those times, when dogs were only as useful as their services, this breed was appreciated for simply being a good companion and a hunting dog.
The Standard Schnauzer is a genetic mix of working dogs, terriers, and hunting stock. Researchers claim that the most likely combination to create the breed came from the gray wolf spitz, black German poodles, and the Wire-Haired Pinscher. The result was a capable guard dog that was amazingly proficient at catching rats.
By the turn of the 10th century, the breed was the most popular dog used by farmers who needed protection against rats getting into their carts while they were left unattended. Soon the Standard Schnauzer was seen in the show ring, entered as the title of Wirehaired Pinschers at the 1879 German dog show. Dog enthusiasts were drawn to the dog's look of intelligence and were entered in many dog shows by the year 1900.
The first Schnauzers were already in America by the early 1900s but the popularity of the breed did not take off initially with dog fanciers. At first it was classified as a terrier, then a working dog. They were used extensively during World War I as police dogs.
Upkeep Requirements For The Standard Schnauzer
To keep the Standard Schnauzer happy, daily exertion is a must. They have very high energy levels and without action to accommodate this need, these dogs tend become bored and destructive. Vigorous outside games, running around nature's hills, or several brisk walks on the leash will do the job.
Standard Schnauzers tolerate both hot and cold climates moderately and can live outdoors so long as there are no extremes in temperature. At night these dogs should be allowed to sleep indoors with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements for the breed calls for heavy combing twice per week. Their coat will also need trimming and shaping every four months or so.
Health Concerns
The average life span of the Standard Schnauzer is between twelve and fourteen years. A very healthy breed, there are absolutely no major health concerns that run common and the only minor issues that may come up are follicular dermatitis and CHD. Veterinarians suggest that they get tested for potential hip problems.
History
The Standard Schnauzer is the forerunner of the Miniature and Giant Schnauzer. This breeds type came about in the Medieval Period. Its ancestors were herding and guarding dogs with rough hair and medium build. The Schnauzer was bred to kill rats, hunt, and for a guard dog. The breeds used in the 19th century to perfect this type of dog into a distinct breed were the Gray Wolf Spitz and Black German Poodle, which were mated to the rough haired dogs. The aim was to make a dog with salt and pepper or black coloring.
The Standard Schnauzers were first dubbed the Wire Haired Pinscher. Pinscher means terrier in the German language. Later, the name was changed to Schnauzer because it means small beard and this breed has distinctive facial hair. Breeders began to show them in the 1870's. The first Standard Schnauzer came to the U.S. about 1900. The American Kennel Club gave it recognition in 1904. These dogs were brought to the United States in larger numbers after World War I. The American Schnauzer Club was organized in 1925. It splintered in 1933 into the American Miniature Schnauzer Club and the Standard Schnauzer Club of America.
General Looks
This breed is built square-like and hefty. It is efficient, agile, and powerful. It has a lengthy and rectangular head. It thins a bit at the nose. The eyes are oval shaped and brown. The face has a plentiful beard and mustache and fur around the eyes.
Is This Your Breed?
This breed is particularly fond of kids. They are protective and alert. They require exercise each day. They need to be brushed frequently to avoid matting. The coat needs to be stripped two times each year.
Coat
The outer coat is wiry, thick, and rough. The inner coat is cottony and stays close to the body.
Color
The colors are unadulterated black or salt and pepper.
Locomotion
The movement is free and fast. It is powerful and the hind legs have good reach and ground cover.
Personality
This breed is brave, reliable smart, bold, and devoted. It is standoffish with strangers and doesn't care for other dogs or rodent pets. It can be aggressive, if it thinks it is threatened. It should be socialized from a young age. It likes cats. It has a sense of humor and likes to clown around.
Standard Schnauzer video:
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