Standard Schnauzer
Also known as Schnauzer
- Height at the withers
- 45 to 50 cm
- Weight
- 14 to 20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12 to 14 years
- Daily activity
- 90 minutes
- Origin
- Germany
- FCI group
- 2 · Pinschers, molossers and Swiss mountain dogs
Who is it for?
Ideal for
- a family with children
- people bothered by dog hair (no breed is guaranteed allergy-free)
- watching over the house
Less suited to
- few red flags: it adapts to many households
Overview
A sturdy, medium-sized dog with the trademark beard and eyebrows, a square build and a wiry coat. An intelligent, spirited breed that works equally well as a versatile working dog and as a loyal companion.
History and origins
The original Schnauzer breed, dating back to the Middle Ages in Germany, developed as a versatile farm dog for guarding property, herding, ratting and controlling vermin.
Health
Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years, and the breed is hardy. The most common health problems in the breed:
- Hip dysplasia
- Hereditary cataracts
- Hypothyroidism
- Dermatitis
Choose a breeder who has the parents health-screened for this breed, and ask to see the results.
Coat and care
Medium-length, wiry coat. Almost no shedding, high coat care.
All ratings
Rated from 1 to 5, comparable across breeds. Green marks a strength for most households, orange something to plan for.
Lifestyle
- Energy
- High, 4 out of 5
- Apartment
- Possible, 3 out of 5
- Home alone
- A few hours, 3 out of 5
Family and sociability
- With children
- Good, 4 out of 5
- With other dogs
- Fair, 3 out of 5
- With cats
- Fair, 3 out of 5
- With strangers
- Reserved, 2 out of 5
Training and temperament
- Ease of training
- Average, 3 out of 5
- For a first-time owner
- Possible, 3 out of 5
- Guarding instinct
- Strong, 4 out of 5
- Prey drive
- Moderate, 3 out of 5
- Tendency to roam
- Low, 2 out of 5
Care and neighbors
- Coat care
- High, 4 out of 5
- Shedding
- Almost none, 1 out of 5
- Drooling
- Never, 1 out of 5
- Barking
- Moderate, 3 out of 5
Climate and health
- Heat tolerance
- Average, 3 out of 5
- Cold tolerance
- Average, 3 out of 5
- Hardiness
- Good, 4 out of 5
In our lists
Standard Schnauzer FAQ
How big does the Standard Schnauzer get?
The Standard Schnauzer stands 45 to 50 cm at the withers and weighs 14 to 20 kg. It is a medium-sized dog.
Does the Standard Schnauzer shed a lot?
It sheds almost nothing and its coat needs a lot of care. It is one of the breeds that shed very little and are often better tolerated by people with allergies, with no guarantee: spend time with the breed before you decide. Its coat needs regular grooming, sometimes by a professional.
Can the Standard Schnauzer live in an apartment?
It can, as long as it gets real outings every day; a yard is still a plus.
How much exercise does the Standard Schnauzer need each day?
Allow about 90 minutes of activity a day: its energy is high. Add games and training exercises to keep its mind busy too.
Is the Standard Schnauzer good with children?
Yes, it gets along well with children who respect it. Never leave a young child alone with a dog, whatever the breed.
How long does the Standard Schnauzer live?
Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years, and the breed is hardy. The main health problems to watch for are hip dysplasia and hereditary cataracts.
