Standard Schnauzer

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment13–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Cataracts · Hypothyroidism

The Standard Schnauzer is the original of the three schnauzer breeds — a bearded, robust, medium-sized German farm dog that caught rats, guarded the property and minded the children all in one. Intelligent, alert, loyal and playful, it is a versatile, spirited companion that bonds closely with its family and makes an excellent watchdog. Bright and trainable but confident and a little willful, it needs early socialisation and consistent, engaging, positive training plus plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation, or its cleverness turns to mischief. It thrives on being an involved family member and can be reserved with strangers. The wiry, low-shedding double coat (which some allergy sufferers tolerate well) needs regular brushing and hand-stripping or clipping every few weeks, plus beard cleaning after meals. Health-wise the Standard Schnauzer is one of the healthier, hardier breeds, but buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes, and be aware of hip dysplasia, cataracts and other eye disease, hypothyroidism, and skin conditions. Give a Standard Schnauzer exercise, mental challenge, socialisation, consistent training and family inclusion, keep up grooming, and this robust, versatile 'thinking dog' will be a devoted companion for thirteen to sixteen years.

• How much exercise does a Standard Schnauzer need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Standard Schnauzer need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Standard Schnauzer suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Is a Standard Schnauzer a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Standard Schnauzer live?

  13–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Standard Schnauzer?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Cataracts, Hypothyroidism. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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