Quick Facts

• Weight: 30 – 50 pounds (13.61 – 22.68 kg)
• Height: 17 – 20 inches (43.18 – 50.80 cm)

The Look of a Standard Schnauzer

Big-boned and muscular, Standard Schnauzers have square, medium-sized frames covered in thick, wiry coats. Their long heads have trademark bushy moustaches, beards and eyebrows. They have oval-shaped eyes, strong muzzles and V-shaped ears that bend forward. Their tails, sometimes docked, are carried high. They come in solid black and salt & pepper. Standard Schnauzers have an overall alert, robust and sturdy look.

Traits

• Beard and moustache
• Dense coat
• Alert and watchful
• Affectionate
• Loyal
• Bold and feisty

Ideal Human Companion

• Experienced dog handlers
• Families
• Farmers
• Outdoorsy types

What They Are Like to Live With

Standard Schnauzers are lively and fun, but they need positive guidance to offset their fiery (but always lovable) personalities. The more you contribute to their intelligence, socialization and quality of life—whether via playtime, constructive games, obedience exercises or good old-fashioned attention—the happier and more manageable they become. Schnauzers love to be involved in family occasions. Though strong and diligent, they can be deeply affectionate, warm and cuddly when the mood strikes.

Schnauzers were famous across Germany for their child-protecting abilities. To this day, they remain playful, patient and protective childhood companions. And—don’t forget—they are world-class watchdogs, showing determination with a sense of control. Schnauzers will bark when they sense a threat to the household, but they won’t make random or excessive noise.

Things You Should Know

Standard Schnauzers are high-energy dogs. Without lots of exercise and activity—this could include walks, jogs or constructive “tasks”—they can get a little off-kilter and destructive (chewing, digging, etc.).

Clever and trainable, Standard Schnauzers nevertheless have a fearless streak. On walks, they may confront larger dogs. They may also become more territorial as they grow older. Make sure to always walk them on a leash, and remember to maintain a firm but positive hand while training.

A healthy Standard Schnauzer can live as long as 15 years, maybe even longer. Relatively healthy, they can sometimes develop eye problems like cataracts. Standard Schnauzers need to be brushed regularly to avoid matting. You might want to occasionally trim their beards as well. These dogs need regular professional grooming to look their best.

Standard Schnauzer History

The Standard Schnauzer, which dates back to 15th-century Germany, is the standard that created both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer. These hardy canines most likely came from a mix of Spitz, Poodle and Pinscher. Originally bred to keep rats out of barns, Schnauzers were also notoriously good watchdogs—the guards of choice for traveling merchants who needed protection for their wagons at night. Today, these canines are just as loyal, protective and sweet as ever, but in the less strenuous role of household companion.