Schnauzer

Appearance

Standard Schnauzers are typically pepper and salt or black in colour, with a stiff and wiry fur coat. This hair will grow in length much like human hair, and must be cut and groomed regularly.

Like the Miniature Schnauzer and Giant Schnauzer, these breeds are most noted by their long beard giving them a regal and wise appearance. It is important to note, the Miniature Schnauzer and Giant Schnauzer were bred from the Standard Schnauzer, making the Standard Schnauzer the original and oldest breed of Schnauzer.

Standard Schnauzer “males ideally are 18-20 inches high at the shoulders and weigh 35-50 pounds. The females ideally are 17-19 inches high at the shoulders and generally weigh 30-45 pounds.” [4]

Temperament

Standard schnauzers make loyal family dogs with guardian instincts. Most will protect their home from uninvited visitors with a deep and robust bark. The breed is also is known to be intelligent and easy to train. They adapt well to any climatic conditions, including cold winters. In general, they are good with kids and adults alike. It is, however, important to socialize from the start. If properly trained, they can be very patient and tolerant. Like other working dogs, standard schnauzers require a fairly strong-willed owner that can be consistent and firm with training and commands.

Standard Schnauzers are extremely versatile, excelling at dog sports such as agility, obedience, tracking, Disc dog, Flyball and even herding.

For more information please click on: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Schnauzer

Other interesting sites include: http://www.schnauzerclub.co.uk/