GENERAL APPEARANCE
Shoulder height: The Giant Schnauzer is 60-70cm (23½”-27½”). Medium Schnauzers are approx 46-48 cm (18”-19”). Miniature Schnauzers 33-36 cm (13”-14”).
Colour: Black, or grey (pepper & salt with banded black and grey hairs).
Coat: Outer coat - harsh and wiry. Clean on the skull, under the throat, ears and under the tail.
Gait: Fore and hindlegs move straight and effortlessly.
These bold dogs must always be robust and sinewy. The long heads narrow slightly from backskull to the nose; the stop is accentuated by bushy eyebrows and the muzzle is covered with a stubby moustache and whiskers. The dark oval eyes sparkle. The arched neck runs into a short, strong, straight back which is slightly higher at the shoulders than at the rump. The forelegs are straight with well angulated hindquarters and the feet are round and compact. The high set tail is customarily docked to two joints in the Giant Schnauzer, and to three joints in the other two varieties.
CHARACTERISTICS AND CARE
These dogs insist on being part of the family and expect to be treated with respect. They learn quickly and, if not trained with a firm but kind hand, will rule the home. They make excellent watchdogs. Whilst adaptable, the elderly or the young might find their energy too much to handle. Grooming of the moustache, whiskers and leg hair is necessary. If shown, Schnauzers need to be handstripped professionally; however, pet owners can keep their dogs looking neat by clipping.
HISTORY
Dating back to the 15th-16th centuries, these dogs are believed to have evolved from German Wirehaired pinschers, black poodles and a spitz like grey dog. They were basically used for herding, ratting and guard duties. German breeders, who excel in creating and fixing type in new breeds, then created a Miniature and a Giant version of this dog. The Miniature came through blendings with the Affenpinscher, while the Giant version was evolved from crosses with the Great Dane and Bouvier des flandres. Later the Giant variety was to win acclaim as service dogs during World War I.