Schnauzers are intelligent, energetic, and playful dogs that enjoy plenty of exercise. They are loyal and devoted to their families, are protective of them, and are affectionate with them. Here are a few more facts about Schnauzers:

1. There Are Three Sizes, Which Are Also Separate Schnauzer Breeds

Schnauzers are available in three different sizes and each is a distinct dog breed. The Standard Schnauzer was the original Schnauzer breed. The Mini and Giant breeds were developed from them.

The Miniature Schnauzer grows to be about 12-14 inches tall and weighs 11-20 pounds. A Standard Schnauzer tends to grow to be about 16-20 inches tall and weighs 30-60 pounds. Although the Giant Schnauzer is not a giant dog breed, they are the largest of the Schnauzer breeds. They grow to be about 23-28 inches tall and weigh 55-95 pounds.

2. Schnauzers Were German Working Dogs

Schnauzers originated in Germany and were working dogs. Mostly, they control rodent populations and worked as guard dogs and watchdogs. They could also be found herding livestock.

Mini Schnauzers were mostly ratters while Standard Schnauzers were ratters, watchdogs, and sometimes herding dogs. Giant Schnauzers were often found working as guard dogs, cattle drovers, or police dogs. During both World Wars, Giant Schnauzers and Standard Schnauzers were popular choices for working as military dogs.

3. They Are Great Family Dogs

Schnauzers are fiercely loyal and protective. Although this makes them initially wary of strangers, they do well and warm up quickly once they are introduced as long as they have been properly socialized and trained. These dogs also tend to do well with children that know how to respect and properly interact with a dog.

4. Schnauzers Have a High Prey Drive

All three sizes of Schnauzers have a high prey drive. They generally will be fine with smaller pets that they have been raised with, but will need extra socialization and training with them. The high prey drive also results in an urge to chase.

Because of this, it’s recommended that Schnauzers are only let off-leash in securely fenced areas. Even if they know the recall command, they may ignore it in favor of chasing after something more interesting!

5. Obedience Classes Are a Good Idea

Schnauzers are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly. Although they are eager to please, they can have a stubborn streak, get bored easily, and need a job to do. This can be a challenge for first-time dog owners to handle alone, so obedience classes are recommended.

Even if you don’t necessarily need them, obedience classes can be a great idea. Not only do they help keep training consistent, but they also help strengthen the bond you have with your Schnauzer puppy. On top of that, they can also help socialize a puppy and some classes may even host safe puppy play sessions for even more socialization.

6. Schnauzers Are Prone to Barking

Because of their protective instincts and watchdog natures, Schnauzers are prone to barking. If you don’t start to train your dog to stop barking early on, it can easily become a nuisance behavior. Since it has an instinctual basis, you likely won’t be able to stop alert barking completely, but early training will be able to make it more manageable.

These are just a few facts about Schnauzers to help you figure out if they are the right fit for you. If a Schnauzer seems like the right dog for you, learn more about them, and then check out the available Schnauzer puppies. Who knows? You could end up finding your new best friend!