The Schnauzer: Dogs With Human Hair

The Schnauzer Dog Breed in Brief:

Origin: Germany

Height: The Schnauzer comes in 3 separate sizes, each classified as a separate breed: The Giant Schnauzer (23.5 to 27.5 inches tall), the Standard Schnauzer (16.5 inches to 20.5 inches at the withers), and the Miniature Schnauzer (12 to 14 inches at the shoulder).

Weight: Can range from 13 to 85 pounds, depending on variety

Exercise Needs: Moderate

Grooming Needs: Moderate

Life Expectancy: 10-15 years

Good With Kids: Moderate

Trainability: Medium

Important to note is that, while they all bear the same name, similar origins and similar backgrounds, the Miniature Schnauzer, Standard Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer are all recognized as completely separate breeds according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and other breed registries. Noted for their unique appearance, uncanny intelligence and extreme loyalty, the Schnauzer has remained a favorite of dog lovers for many years.

The History of the Schnauzer

The three varieties of Schnauzer all originated within the kingdoms of Wurttenberg and Bavaria, but it was the Standard Schnauzer who first made his appearance and captured the imagination and hearts of all who saw him, becoming the general prototype for the other two breeds. First appearing in German portrait paintings of the early 15th and 16th centuries, he was obviously held in high esteem, and often favored as a household companion, particularly by the nobles. Make no mistake, however - the Schnauzer has always been a very courageous and hard-working member of the canine family.

It’s believed that the Schnauzer was developed from crossing the black German Poodle with a gray wolf spitz dog, and then adding in a dash of the wire-haired Pinscher bloodlines. This accounts for the dog’s unique coloration, as well as his wiry coat, commonly found with the wolfish salt-and-pepper shading. While solid black Schnauzers are not unheard of, they are most commonly found in Germany, the trend not taking off well in the United States or other countries.

Perhaps it was due to his unique coat, proud stance, or even his tenacity but, originally, the Schnauzer was classified in with the terrier group. Later, they would go on to be shown as Wirehaired Pinschers. The general consensus amongst German breeders, however, was simply that this magnificent animal was just a working dog. Nothing more and nothing less. Used to clear vermin from the barns and homes, guard the yard and to watch over their families, these Schnauzers were very dedicated and loyal to their families. In fact, prior to World War I, the Schnauzer was seen guarding almost every market cart throughout Germany.

The great World War I and II would prove a serious strain on the breed and their numbers diminished greatly, like many European breeds of dog. Enough survived, however, to pass on their genes and keep this magnificent canine a creature that we can enjoy even today.

The Schnauzer Appearance

While the Schnauzer can be found in 3 distinct sizes, all of which are considered their own separate breed, they still possess the same characteristics that the general breed is noted for. A well-built Schnauzer, regardless of size, gives the impression of being a powerful and robust canine. Possessing both good muscle and bone, the Schnauzer is a sturdy animal with a self-assured and alert stance, and he carries himself with a very alert, ready-for-anything air. Watching a Schnauzer perk up, interested in something, definitely makes one understand why he might have once been classified with the terrier grouping.

The Schnauzer is also a distinctively rectangular dog, in appearance - His head is rectangular in shape, only broken up by the dog’s long wiry beard and bushy eyebrows. His body is almost rectangular, sloping back into a gentle wedge, and his well-furred legs also possess a rectangular aspect. The Schnauzer’s tail is also docked at a young age and the ears are commonly cropped and carried erect, coming to noticeable points.

Schnauzers come in two colors - the traditional salt-and-pepper, which possesses a uniquely beautiful fawn undercoat, and more commonly seen in Germany, the solid black variety. Any other color or rusty hues are considered a fault and the black variety must be black through to the skin, with no other colored undercoat.

The Schnauzer Temperament

It is said that the Schnauzer combines a mix of a very high-spirited temperament with a calm and steadfast reliability and, perhaps, this describes the breed best. Keenly intelligent, they are often considered to be the “dog with the human brain,” by Schnauzer fanciers, and they are known for their extreme courage - The Giant Schnauzer has earned himself a place as a police dog, particularly in Germany, where he is prized for his fearlessness and trainability.

The Schnauzer Exercise Needs

The Schnauzer is a very active, working-style dog. Bred for performing various tasks, he likes to be busy and on the go. Don’t think him hyperactive and uncontrollable, however - when the day is done, the Schnauzer loves nothing more than curling up at the feet of his master or stealing a spot on the sofa. Provided you grant them ample walking time on the leash and access to a chance to run, perhaps in a dog park or if you have a large back yard where he can romp and play, this beautiful and agile dog is usually quite content.

Schnauzer Grooming Requirements

Care and upkeep of your Schnauzer dog or puppy is relatively simple - a gentle brushing, once or twice a week, will suffice and will help to keep his coat glossy by stimulating the oils in his coat and helping to free and remove any dander. To brush your Schnauzer puppy, use a soft-bristled brush and go with the grain of hair, brushing in a gentle and flicking motion. This will help to loosen the dead hairs and remove them from his coat.

A Schnauzer shouldn’t need to be bathed too often either, provided he‘s not inclined to roll in smelly stuff; once or twice a month is usually a good bet. Aside from this, the only other major grooming needs that a Schnauzer requires are the occasional trip to the doggy salon for a trim, keeping his nails clipped, his ears clean and, if he will let you, his teeth brushed.

Training Your Schnauzer

Obedience classes are highly recommended, particularly if you have a Standard or Giant Schnauzer. Very powerful and highly active dogs, they can be quite a handful if not properly controlled. Puppy obedience is highly recommended, to teach them before they become too large and stubborn. The Schnauzer is a highly intelligent dog and, if given too much freedom, will fully take advantage of it. Patience and praise work much better than yelling at this beautiful canine.

Schnauzer Health Concerns

Like any purebred breed of dog, the Schnauzer can be subject to a variety of health concerns. Your best bet, when deciding to choose a new Schnauzer puppy, is to check around with several breeders and ask about the various health issues that can affect these beautiful working dogs. A reputable breeder should be well-versed in the health concerns and should be able to give you more details, as well as showing you the sire and dam of your potential puppy. Some of the health problems that can affect Schnauzer include:

• Cataracts
• Diabetes
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Von Willebrand’s disease
• Liver disease
• Hip and elbow dysplasia

Is the Schnauzer the Right Breed For You?

The Schnauzer is a wonderful and devoted family pet, though he may not be the dog for everyone. Some can be prone to aggressive behavior or shyness if not properly exposed to positive human and animal interaction at a young age. The Schnauzer is also a highly intelligent dog and, because of this, reacts poorly to negative stimuli as well as occasional bouts of stubbornness. If you don’t mind the challenge, however, and you enjoy a very sharp-witted and beautiful companion, the Schnauzer may be the perfect dog for you!

Shawna L. Krautheim

2007