Schnauzers are a breed of dog that originated in Germany. There are three separate breeds, the Standard (which is the oldest), Miniature, and Giant. Unlike some breeds that simply have different sizes, the Schnauzers were each developed separately, with other breeds added to the Miniature and Giant bloodlines to produce different sized dogs that matched the Standard Schnauzer in appearance.


The Schnauzer is a medium sized dog with a wiry and harsh coat that is longer around the face, giving them the appearance of having bushy eyebrows, whiskers, and a beard. Colors include black and the more common pepper and salt grey. They stand between 17-20 inches and weigh in at 32-34 pounds. Their tails are traditionally docked, where still permitted, and in some countries the ears are cropped. When left natural the Schnauzers tail curls up over the back.

Once known as the Rough Haired Pincher, the Schnauzer gets its name from the German word for snout – “Schnauze”. Often classified as a terrier, it is likely they descended from herding and guardian breeds, although it is also possible they are related to the German Pinscher and Spitz-type dogs. Wherever their ancestry lies it is thought that they have existed in Germany since the Middle Ages; in the marketplace of Mechlinburg there is a statue of a hunter from the 14th century with a Schnauzer at his feet. They can be seen in many pieces of art in the 15th and 16th centuries, including in paintings by Durer and Rembrandt. Traditionally they were kept as working dogs, often owned by peasant farmers. They were used as ratters, guard dogs, and as livestock guardians. Today the Schnauzer is mostly kept as a companion, but is still sometimes as a working dog.

Schnauzers are an intelligent breed, easy to train, and fast learners. They are affectionate, but some individuals may not do well around children and other dogs, particularly if they were not socialized at a young age. It can be easy for them to become the dominant one in the household if they do not have a firm handler. Schnauzers make excellent watch dogs.

Generally a very healthy breed, the Schnauzer has a life expectancy of 12-14 years. A small number of them can suffer from hip dysplasia and eye disease.

Although an energetic breed, the Schnauzer can adjust easily to apartment life. They are active indoors and out, always on the move. A daily walk is necessary to keep them happy and release some of their energy.

The coat of a Schnauzer requires daily brushing and regular trips to a groomer.