Intelligent, active, and alert dogs. Standard Schnauzers seem to enjoy dog sports such as agility, tracking, herding, retrieving, rally and competitive obedience. Stubborn tendencies may be lessened by using reward-based training involving small treats and favorite toys. Good guard dogs; can be reserved around strangers and may require careful socialization to prevent or reduce defensive aggressive tendencies.

Identifying Features: Average Height: 18 - 19 in

The Standard Schnauzer comes from Germany and the Alpine regions of Switzerland and France. They were originally bred as guard dogs and hunters of rats and other vermin. The breed was often used for protecting coaches and small children. The Standard Schnauzer is the oldest of the Schnauzer breeds and formed the basis on which the Miniature and the Giant Schnauzers were later developed. The direct ancestors to the Schnauzer are the Grey Wolf Spitz and the Wirehaired Pinscher. The modern Standard Schnauzer was established in 1890. Schnauzers were introduced to the United States in the early twentieth century, and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904, where they quickly became very popular. Today popularity of the Miniature and Giant varieties exceeds the Standard's position with pet owners.

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