Living With Your Dog
Standard Schnauzers are often called the ''dog with the human brain''.
The AKC breed standard defines their temperament as highly developed
senses, intelligence, aptitude for training, fearlessness, endurance and
resistance against weather and illness. Their nature combines high-spirited
temperament with extreme reliability.
A young Standard Schnauzer under two years of age is high spirited
giving lots of love but also with energy that is non-stop. The best
solution for the excess energy is regular exercise.
A large fenced in yard for them to run and play is recommended by breeders.
Their intelligence can get a young Standard Schnauzer into trouble but can also
make them fast learners. Never leave your young dog alone. If you can't watch
them, put them in their crate. Set limits and rules for them. Remember your
small puppy will grow into an adult dog. What they do as pups may not be cute when
they grow to be adults. Be consistent, not hard handed and they will quickly learn
your rules. Don't let them run your house by setting their own rules.
A young Standard Schnauzer should be socialized with people and dogs of all ages
and in new places outside of the home. Puppy classes are a great start and training
should continue on with more formal obedience classes after the age of six months.
Introduce your dog to new situations carefully so that they feel safe and build up
their confidence.
Around the age of two years old, Standard Schnauzers tend to settle down when they have been given the
right socialization, training and rules. They are always looking to be a member of the family and want to participate.
They are not a kennel dog or outside dog. They need to be in the mix of family activity.
Standard Schnauzers can and do live long full lives.
It is important that a pup and young Standard start out with a good solid foundation.
One of our girls, Mariah, lived to be over sixteen and half years old and was a true companion all those years.
The best source of information about Standard Schnauzers is from a breeder.
Most veterinarians, trainers and groomers are familiar with the Miniature Schnauzer
breed and think Standards are just big Minis. Minis and Standards are two different
breeds and differ in many ways. If you have problems or questions, ask a breeder.
