Training: Due to their incredible intelligence, teaching Schnauzers is no problem at all, but training them can be difficult for novice dog owners. While being trained, they often quickly grasp an activity or exercise with very few repetitions. In fact, a common problem is over-training. A proud breed, they have little patience for what they deem to be a waste of time, and instead of “learning” what they already know, they opt to stare blankly at their trainer until they’ve finished “training” the Schnauzer. A drawback of this intelligence is that owners must maintain a firm, gentle approach when training and dealing with their Schnauzer, or risk having their Schnauzer rule the home.
Barking: Although this breed has a surprisingly loud bark, they rarely do so without cause. Standard Schnauzers love to play the guardian and will alert their owner of something they deem suspicious. As with many dogs, proper training can easily prevent excessive barking.
Personality: If properly trained and socialized, Schnauzers are known to be excellent companions to their immediate family. They are also quite welcoming and open to meeting new people when introduced by their owner. Due to a sense of pride and dignity, a Standard Schnauzer does not mix well with everyone, particularly children who might tease it. A working dog by design, the Schnauzer tirelessly performs tasks with diligence.
Temperament & Behavior: Faithful, intelligent, enthusiastic, and at times a comedian, a Standard Schnauzer is an excellent companion and family pet. One of the best parts of this breed is that they insist on being a part of the family as much as possible. If the owner is going for a hike, their Standard Schnauzer is sure to follow suit. As they were bred for farm work, it is essential to provide a lot of exercises and mental stimulation to keep them in good spirits.
Behavior with Kids: Being socialized early will ensure a bond between the Standard Schnauzer and the children of the immediate family. This sociability, however, is not often extended to all children. They are indeed friendly dogs, but their high sense of self-worth isn’t compatible with children unaccustomed to interacting with dogs. As such, supervision is recommended.
Protection: Although medium in size, the Standard Schnauzer is an excellent home guardian. Schnauzers love to be a part of and guardian of a small family, but owners can increase this circle to include close friends if properly socialized. Strangers and door-to-door salespeople, however, will receive a barking welcome.
