The Schnauzer began its development in Germany from the early pinschers and perhaps other breeds. It became known as the Wirehaired Pinscher. What is now the Standard Schnauzer was the original size. This Wirehaired Pinscher was a stable, yard and cattle dog, a guard and a ratter. No terrier breeds that were used to bolt vermin from the earth were used. Somewhere along the way the wolf gray Spitz was introduced, contributing to the salt and pepper coloring now seen. In the later 1800's the Wirehaired Pinscher was noted in the Stud Books. It seems to be confusing as to exactly which other breeds actually were used other than the Miniature Pinschers to develop the Miniature Schnauzers; Affenpinschers were mentioned.
By very selective, discriminating breeding, the undesired features and colors from the original breeds have been eliminated to ingrain the desired characteristics. Our Breed Standards are the measurement by which we retain these characteristics and preserve the Miniature, Standard and Giant Schnauzers as intended.
The Giant Schnauzer seems to have its beginnings with crossing the large Standards with what was called the Oberlander and the Munich Schnauzer. It was meant to be a considerably enlarged and strengthened copy of the Standard Schnauzer, using the power of the Oberlander body and expression of the schnauzer. There is speculation as to the other breeds used to conserve the black coloring; but among those considered are the black Great Dane and the Bouvier de Roulens, a breed no longer in existence which had the black coloring and wiry coat and type of the Giant.
All three sizes are very intelligent, quick to learn and wish to please their human companions and family. They thrive on close contact and companionship with humans and mutual activities together. Because they are alert with busy, inquiring minds they need attention and training with direction. All three sizes have wiry coats with a soft undercoat and if clipped this hard coat will become softer.
Schnauzers are inventive in finding things to do, they love toys and challenges like obstacles to climb through and play with. All 3 sizes do well in obedience and agility and are known to love hiking, boating and tracking.
The Miniature with its smaller size can get along happily in a home or apartment with minimal space for "free running" but should be walked regularly for good exercise as well as the enjoyment of getting out in the world and meeting others. The Standard and Giant schnauzers both require a good deal more room for exercise and play. They are very energetic and need to work it off. They enjoy a faster pace of exercise - trotting with a jogger or cyclist. Romps in a park or in current "dog parks" can be good outlets.
The Miniatures are perhaps the more "cuddly" size and love sharing your lap, chair and bed. They sound off when strangers or animals come to their attention. But the Standards and particularly the Giants are by nature more guard dogs, protective of their homes and family. Again, personality differences play a part in these respects in all sizes. Standards and Giants both need you to spend time with their training. They are working dogs and enjoy it most when given responsibility and a job to do. They thrive on the challenges of working trials, Search and Rescue, tracking, agility, herding, carting and police assistance. All 3 sizes can be good Therapy dogs and several make fine assistants to handicapped people. Versatility is a good description for them.
All 3 sizes need grooming. Schnauzers have a natural double coat - outer wiry coat and soft undercoat. A method called stripping is used to maintain this wiry textured hair. Clipping turns it soft but does keep it short and tidy. Talking with schnauzer owners and breeders will give an idea of what is involved in maintaining the coats. Information can be found on some websites (several are listed in the LINKS page).
Preference as to size comes with taking all these factors into consideration and with visiting people and breeders who have them so you can see what they are like in the home. All sizes have a variety of personalities so it is always best to see a puppy or dog to determine if it is compatible with you, your family and your lifestyle. But "once a schnauzer owner, always a schnauzer owner." :)
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