Finding
a Breeder
You're interested in a Standard Schnauzer but can't find one. Well that's
both good and bad.
You are starting out right by contacting a breeder instead of going to a pet
store. Never buy a dog of any breed from a pet store. Even if the pet store
says it got the pup from a breeder and is just acting as a broker for the
breeder. If you rescue the pup from a pet store, you will only allow the pet
store and the breeder (puppy mill) to profit and continue selling genetically
and emotionally weak dogs. Pups grow up into weak adults and the lack of
socialization causes behavioral problems. The goal of every reputable Standard
Schnauzer breeder is to prevent one of their puppies from falling into the
hands of a puppy mill.
Standard Schnauzers are not a rare breed but they are bred in low numbers.
Most if not all of the Standard Schnauzers bred in North America are done by
breeders who have one litter a year. Breeders only select the right ''mother
and father'' whose pups will improve their line. Each breeder is trying to
obtain a dog that matches the breed's AKC national standard which is a
description of the dog's physical and behavioral traits. While no dog will be a
perfect match to the breed standard, that is the breeder's goal. The results of
limited breeding have been a breed that is genetically sound by avoiding the
health and behavioral problems that occur in popular, over bred, easy to find
breeds.
Breeders can be found through the Standard Schnauzer Club of America or
regional Standard Schnauzer clubs such as the Heartland Standard Schnauzer
Club. The web site for national club http://www.standardschnauzer.org/
also has links to regional clubs. Club Secretaries can also be contacted via
the clubs' web site for lists of breeders. Not all club members list their
names as breeders on the club web sites.
Because of the limited breeding of Standard Schnauzers you will most likely
have to be placed on a breeders waiting list. As the breeder gets closer to
actual date of breeding, you will be asked for a deposit and to sign a
contract. The contract protects you, the buyer. It also defines the limitations
and requirements the breeder expects from you.
Another option to getting a puppy is to adopt an older dog which the breeder
may have available. Pups mature at approximately 2+ years of age and by that
age may not be a dog the breeder wants to keep for their breeding or showing
program. These dogs have passed the puppy stage but will still bond quickly to
their new family. . There are many positives with adopting an older dog. They
are socialized, and their personality and physical traits have developed.
Basically, what you see is what you get.
