The Standard Schnauzer dog breed is a medium-sized, sturdy and muscular dog with prominent eyebrows and a moustache. The coat can be black or pepper and salt. Adult males are 48cm in height ideally, and weigh about 18kg. Adult females are about 45.7cm and 16kg.
Schnauzers are lively and active dogs but they do have a stubborn and wilful streak. They can become one-person or one-family dogs and may become very territorial. The Schnauzer not always get on well with other dogs or household pets and so need especially thorough socialisation and supervision. They are quick to alert the family of any strangers approaching their territory, using their deep bark.
A Schnauzer dog has been represented in art and sculptures as early as the 1400s. The Schnauzer (commonly called the Standard Schnauzer) is the one that the Miniature and Giant Schnauzers evolved from, originating from southern Germany and the nearby regions of Switzerland and France. Originally it was used as a ratter, then it was discovered that they make excellent watchdogs and guards. The first breed standard for this dog was created in 1890.
