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Characteristics, History, and Health
Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a robust, squarely built, medium-sized dog with a distinctive bearded snout, known for its ardent spirit, extroverted behavior, and strong guarding instincts. A member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Working Group, it is one of three distinct Schnauzer breeds, alongside the Miniature and the Giant Schnauzer. The Standard Schnauzer, often simply referred to as the Schnauzer, originated in Germany in the late Middle Ages. Its name, Schnauzer, comes from the German word for snout and means colloquially mustache or whiskered snout, due to the dog's distinctively bearded snout. The breed was primarily used as versatile farm dogs in its early history. They served many purposes, such as herding livestock, protecting property, and even hunting vermin. Later, they were used as military dogs during World War I and II due to their intelligence and versatility.
Main Info
- Origin
- Germany
- Alternate Names
- Mittleschnauzer (“medium Schnauzer” in German)
- Life Expectancy
- 13-16 years
- Average Male Height
- 18.5-19.5 inches
- Average Female Height
- 17.5-18.5 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 35-50 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 30-45 pounds
- Coat Length
- Medium
- Coat Type
- Double, Wiry
- Coat Colors
- Black, Pepper & Salt
- Coat Pattern
- None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Standard Schnauzers is a generally healthy breed, though they can suffer from persistent mullerian duct syndrome, myotonia congenita, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration. They also have a predisposition to hip dysplasia, eye problems like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, and von Willebrand's Disease (a blood clotting disorder).
Personality and Behavior
Standard Schnauzers are known for their intelligent, playful, and protective nature. They are often good with children and are known for their loyalty to their families. Due to their working background, they are energetic dogs that require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They are typically good with other dogs and pets if properly socialized from an early age.
They are highly trainable but can have a stubborn streak, so consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best. Due to their protective nature, they can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is crucial.
Fun Facts
The Standard Schnauzer is the original prototype of the three Schnauzer breeds, which also include the Giant Schnauzer and the Miniature Schnauzer.
Standard Schnauzers were featured in several artworks during the 15th and 16th centuries, suggesting the breed's existence and appreciation during that time.
Albert Einstein famously owned a Standard Schnauzer named Chico.
They were used in Germany during wars as dispatch carries and Red Cross aides.
References
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/schnauzer-standard?page=1
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/standard-schnauzer/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/standard-schnauzer
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/SCHNAUZER-182.html
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