The American Kennel Club has a standard for each registered breed of dog. This is the guide the judges use when evaluating a dog in the show ring. Below is a description of the standard for Standard Schnauzers shown at AKC dog shows. It is always wise to attend a few shows in your area to help you better understand the breed. It gives you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the temperament,coat and conformation of this wonderful breed.

General Appearance: The Standard Schnauzer is a robust, heavy set dog, sturdily built with good muscle and plenty of bone; square built in proportion of body length to height. His rugged build and dense harsh coat are accentuated by the hallmark of the breed, the arched eyebrows and the bristly mustache and whiskers.

Ideal height at the highest point of the shoulder blades, 18 1/2 to 19 1/2 for males and 17 1/2 to 18 1/2 for females.

The head should be strong, rectangular and elongated; narrowing slightly from the ears to the eyes, and again to the tip of the nose. The total length of the head is about 1 and 1/2 the length of the back measured from the withers to the set on of the tail. The head should match the sex and substance of the dog. Expression alert, highly intelligent, spirited. Eyes medium size; dark brown; oval in shape and turned forward, neither round or protruding. The brow is arched and wiry, but vision is not impaired nor eyes hidden by too long an eyebrow. Ears are set high, evenly shaped with moderate thickness of leather and carried erect when cropped.

Temperament; The Standard Schnauzer has highly developed senses, intelligence, aptitude for training, fearlessness, endurance and resistance against weather and illness. His nature combines high spirited temperament with extreme reliability.

Colors are Pepper Salt or Black. Coat should be tight, hard, wiry and as thick as possible with a soft close undercoat and a harsh outer coat. When showing these dogs are kept in their natural coat. If they are a pet they are often clipped. These dogs when groomed do not shed. They make a great house dog.

I have found this breed to be a great companion and a wonderful dog to have in the house. They are a loving family dog and great watch dogs. They are smart and love to please. If you are interested in the breed please contact us about upcoming litters. We look forward to helping you discover this exceptional breed.

Download Full Breed Standard





HELPFUL RESOURCES:

AKC Schnauzer Breed Standard
OFA HEALTH - Standard Schnauzer

Standard Schnauzer Club of Northern California

Standard Schnauzer Club of America

RECOMMENDED READING:

Standard Schnauzer by Barbara M. Dille 
**Available on Amazon in hardcover & e-Book

The Puppy Primer by Patricia B. McConnell
**Available on Amazon in paperback & e-Book

Dogwise.com has many helpful training books!