Schnauzers 101

Working group

The Standard Schnauzer is the original of the three schnauzer breeds, less popular than the Miniature Schnauzer and more popular than the Giant Schnauzer. Not surprisingly, the Standard shares traits with both: A distinctively bewhiskered appearance, an alert manner and a devotion to family. They are very intelligent dogs who crave a challenge and will find trouble on their own if not kept busy.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Schnauzers

Those whiskers! Those eyebrows!

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
17.5 to 19.5 inches tall
Group Size Medium
Lifespan
13 to 16 years
020
Weight
30 to 45 lbs
0150

We want to see pictures of your Schnauzer!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Schnauzer

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Hypothyroid disease

risk-level-bar

Pancreatitis

risk-level-bar

Dental disease

Senior Schnauzer

9+ years

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Pancreatitis

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Intervertebral disc disease

Schnauzer puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

Young adult Schnauzer

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

Mature adult Schnauzer

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Hypothyroid disease

risk-level-bar

Pancreatitis

risk-level-bar

Dental disease

Senior Schnauzer

9+ years

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Pancreatitis

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Intervertebral disc disease

Schnauzer puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

Young adult Schnauzer

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Schnauzer conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

2-Schnauzer-Standard standing up GettyImages-96925727

Nationwide can help you save on your Schnauzer-Standard's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Get your Schnauzer-Standard’s health information in a free report

3-Fun fact-Schnauzer-Standard GettyImages-1287095184

The Standard Schnauzer is known as the Mittelschnauzer ("medium Schnauzer") in Germany.

Schnauzer-Standard coat care and colors

The wiry double coat of the Standard Schnauzer requires regular brushing to help remove any loose or damaged fur. While the Schnauzer, as with most wire-coated terriers, is traditionally and painstakingly "hand-stripped" of their outer coats, this is rarely done outside of the show world these days. For easy coat care, pet Standard Schnauzers are typically kept clipped.

How do I keep my Schnauzer’s coat shiny?

A shiny coat starts with an appropriate diet and good health, and is burnished by weekly brushing of your Schnauzer.

How often should I groom my Schnauzer?

Most pet Schnauzers are kept clipped with regular visits to a professional groomer. Between visits, weekly brushing will keep your dog's coat in fine shape.

How often should I bathe my Schnauzer?

Standard Schnauzers can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

Schnauzer exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The basic exercise requirement for Standard Schnauzers is a brisk daily walk, but they'll take more if you can offer it. Because they are busy dogs, be sure to include games and activities, especially indoors when the weather is bad. These smart, athletic dogs take naturally to canine sports such as agility.

Class star

Trainability

Schnauzers are smart dogs who learn things quickly but can sometimes be distracted when in "Squirrel!" mode. Change things up by teaching tricks and other fun games to keep this bright dog engaged. Schnauzers are not usually fond of strange dogs or people, so start socialization and training early. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid future struggles.

Schnauzer fun facts

Top girl names for Schnauzers

100%

of Schnauzers are female

0%

of Schnauzers are male

Top boy names for Schnauzers

Nationwide loves Schnauzer-Standards of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Schnauzers

Best. Schnauzer-Standard insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free