The Standard Schnauzer is a medium sized breed of dog with a square build and a think, coarse coat. They are intelligent, playful and energetic, and make excellent guard dogs. Full grown, they weigh between 30 and 45 pounds.

Physically: What a Standard Schnauzer Looks Like
These are strongly-built, dogs with a square body appearance. They have a relatively broad head, large nose and lips, and oval shaped dark brown eyes. These dogs have bushy eyebrows, whiskers and a beard, and a coarse solid black or salt and pepper outer coat, with a soft undercoat. Standard Schnauzers generally stand between 17 and 20 inches in height and weigh between 30 and 45 pounds when full grown.

Temperament: How a Standard Schnauzer Behaves
This is a lively and enthusiastic breed. These are playful dogs with a high level of natural intelligence. They are affectionate dogs that bond closely with their family. Standard Schnauzers are protective dogs that require effective leadership, but are generally good with children and friendly with visitors.

Strengths and Skills: What Standard Schnauzers Do Best
These puppies are members of the Terrier class and the AKC working group. As very intelligent dogs, they carried messages for the German military in World War I. They are also descended from dogs that were used in hunting. They killed vermin on German farms and also helped to guard livestock. Their ancestors'' skills are still present, making the Standard Schnauzer a good guard dog and one that has a natural inclination to track small animals.

Care and Training: The Best Environment for the Standard Schnauzer
This is a good dog for those who live in apartments though they are energetic and require a lot of activity. They love to play and exercise and will take as much activity as they can get. They should be taken on a daily walk, and often make good companions for joggers. They require a strong trainer in the family that clearly demonstrates positive leadership. They learn quickly and respond well to proper training. They have a coat type and length that requires daily brushing to prevent matting.

Origin: Where the Standard Schnauzer Comes From
These puppies have their origins in Germany. They have relatives in the German Pinscher line and are also likely related to a number of other German breeds. These long-haired, coarse-coated dogs are similar in appearance to many of the canines in Germany prior to the beginning of the 20th century. It wasn't until the 1870s that wire-haired Pinschers began to appear. These coarse-coated dogs were bred with one another to establish the unique breed of today.

This puppy learns quickly and can easily be trained with proper methods and consistent leadership. They are an active breed that requires plenty of daily exercise. They make excellent guard dogs and are loving and loyal members of their families.