Schnauzer
This is the middle-sized member of the Schnauzer family and known in the USA as the Standard. He was a multi-purpose dog in his native Germany; bred, probably from a mix of Poodle, grey Spitz and the old German Pinscher he combines working and terrier qualities which fitted him to work as a ratter, drovers dog and guard for the house and farmyard and was even used for carting.
The first Schnauzer Breed Standard was drawn up in 1880 and although he has never achieved the levels of popularity of the Miniature he is a very smart and attractive dog, medium in height at up to 19" he is either pure black or pepper and salt. The coat does need a good bit of attention to give him his typical look of short body coat and neat leg and head furnishings, but the result is extremely smart and really shows off his beautifully balanced shape.
The Schnauzer is an active dog with plenty of energy. He is good with children, makes a good house-dog and guard and has the intelligence and willingness to please that fits him well for obedience.
Click here to read the Schnauzer Breed Standard.
Selected Books
The time to make sure that the Schnauzer is the right breed for you is before you bring him home. If you and your dog are going to be a good match speak to breeders, Breed Clubs, and generally find out as much as you can about the breed.
Understanding dog psychology , and what his motivations are will save a lot of confusion and misunderstandings for both you and him. Many mistakes can be avoided, and quick solutions reached if you have the basics of puppy training to guide you through all the early settling in difficulties. It helps, too, to have some idea of basic healthcare so you can make informed judgements about whether a visit to the vet is necessary or if there is a simple remedy. For example, many cases of upset tummies are best cured by 24 hour starvation. The books we have chosen will be able to guide you as to whether your dog can be treated at home, or a visit to the surgery is necessary.
Schnauzer Breed Clubs
Schnauzer Rescue and Rehoming
Contact a Breed Club. They should all be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own Schnauzer, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.
Schnauzer Breeders
If you are looking for a puppy contact the Breed Clubs and the Breeders listed and visit the puppyfinder website where there is a great deal of information on hereditary conditions. If you are a Breeder and wish to advertise your puppies puppyfinder is an excellent showcase.
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