Standard Schnauzer, a Complete Guide


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Standard Schnauzers are the middle size in the Schnauzer range (unlike Standard Poodles, which are the biggest size!). They are probably closest to the original Schnauzers which are depicted in old paintings, and are very versatile dogs which have been used in a variety of working roles, such as hunting vermin, tracking, retrieving, watchdogging, and they can also perform well in agility and obedience events.

Schnauzers tend to stay puppish for longer than many breeds, but they are very trainable, with patience. They are active dogs, which can be pushy, and need a fair amount of exercise and interesting things to do if they are to be well behaved. They vary in terms of temperament, so it's a good idea to meet the parents of pups you are interested in, and ask the breeder what sort of temperament they are aiming for. Some are warier of strangers than others, and some can also be quite barky. Underexercised and bored Schnauzers tend to be barkier than those dogs which are given something to do. 

They do need a lot of socialization with people, especially those individuals which tend to be wary, so that they are well-behaved with your visitors. Standard Schnauzers are generally good watchdogs, alerting owners to the presence of strangers, but are too small to be effective guard dogs, though they can have strong guarding tendencies.

Do they get on well with children? Standard Schnauzers are generally affectionate and playful dogs, so they can get on very well with sensible children. Children need to be brought into training programmes, because these dogs can be pushy, so that the house rules are enforced by everyone, and the dog respects the child.

Scraps with other dogs can be a problem, so socialization is very important for Standard Schnauzers when they are pups, and it should be ongoing. Schnauzers tend to be quite bold, and will not back down from conflicts with other dogs They can also initiate conflicts. However many Standard Schnauzers make friends with dogs of other breeds and play with them happily.

Like Miniature Schnauzers, Standard Schnauzers are usually given a classic Schnauzer hair cut which accentuates their beards, left long, and their strong bodies, where the coat is cut short. .They don't shed much, but their coats can mat if not groomed regularly.


These dogs tend to stay active even when they are quite old, but they can suffer from some health problems, such as cancer, hypothyroidism, eye disorders, allergies and hip dysplasia.


Barbara Dille has written a very good introduction to this lively breed, which gives a clear picture of the Standard Schnauzer's character and needs. It's a well-written and well-organized book, which is very well illustrated.