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The
original member of
the Schnauzer family, the Standard Schnauzer was developed in Germany as a
herder and farmyard ratter. Today the Schnauzer makes an excellent
watchdog and family pet. The Schnauzer stands 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder
and has a hard, wiry, double coat. Coat colours are salt and pepper and solid
black.
This breed is active,
attractive, robust, intelligent and playful. They make good companions and
are very good with children. Standards
are intensely loyal and bond strongly to their families. Because of this,
they are not the dogs to be left alone in the yard for long periods of
time.
As an active
breed, they
require at least one good walk a day, and enjoy short play periods
throughout the day. As pups they are energetic,
and a constant source of
entertainment.
Although
they are quick learners and eager to please, Standards can be stubborn at
times. Their owners should be confident and capable of consistent
handling.
Schnauzers can be a handful so training
should begin early. Although they may look full grown, owners
should be aware that Standard Schnauzers mature later and remain
"puppies" until close to two years old. Properly trained and
socialized, they mature into splendid companions.
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