Since 1933Adopt a Standard Schnauzer
YOU WANT TO ADOPT A STANDARD SCHNAUZER?
Please take a few minutes to read about the characteristics of the Standard Schnauzer.
The Standard is known as "the dog with the human brain", while being an exaggeration,
it does illustrate the mental abilities of the breed. The Standard is the original of the
three sizes, miniature, standard and giant. Listed are areas you need to consider before
you decide to share your home with a Standard Schnauzer.
SIZE:
Although sizes may vary, the correct size for males is 18" - 20" at
the shoulder with a weight between 40 - 50 pounds, and females 17" - 19"
at the shoulder with a weight between 35 - 45 pounds.
EXERCISE:
The Standard Schnauzer is a robust, exuberant dog who loves to play and needs
daily exercise. A fenced yard is highly recommended. If motivated,
Standards can jump a six foot fence.
GROOMING:
All dogs require grooming, whether it be nail clipping, ear cleaning, or brushing.
Standard Schnauzers require more than the average dog. Beard and leg furnishings
must be combed and brushed often to keep from matting. Pets may be machine clippered,
which is quicker than stripping; however, dogs that are shown must be stripped
to maintain correct coat texture and body outline. A properly groomed Standard
should not shed.
HEALTH & CARE:
The breed is relatively healthy. Although hip dysplasia is present, severe
hip dysplasia is rare. There are cases of flea and food allergies and some
skin problems. Most breeds have some of the above and some Standards will
never have allergies , skin problems, or hip problems, but we feel it is
best for you to know the worst. Feeding one medium sized dog for a year
will cost approximately $250-$300. Many expenses are hidden in the
grocery bill (food, dishes, leashes, collars, brushes, shampoos and toys).
The Standard, if given good care, will usually live 12 to 15 years.
TRAINING:
The combination of intelligence and spirit can make him a handful and he
requires training and discipline. The training must be consistent;
a Standard Schnauzer will work readily and happily if praised for positive
behavior rather than punished for bad behavior. He must be made to
understand that you, the owner, are the "pack leader" or he
will claim this title for himself. Local kennel clubs in your area
offer training classes in obedience and the cost is nominal.
GUARDIAN:
As a home guardian the Standard Schnauzer excels. He readily accepts friends
of the family, but warns of strangers with a strong voice. He is alert to
his surroundings and aware of change in his environment. His reaction is
usually to hold rather than to attack, and unless provoked, has been known
to keep an intruder cornered for quite a long time. He is good with children
and appoints himself as their guardian and protector.
TIME:
Standard Schnauzers are "people" dogs. They need to be with,
around, and near humans because they thrive on love and attention. Consider
your lifestyle and household schedule - do you travel a lot, do you work
long hours, are you busy with your children's activities? In other words,
do you have time to give the love and attention a Standard Schnauzer needs?
ADDICTIVE:
Few people own only one Standard Schnauzer. They simply are habit forming!
Contrary to popular opinion, they are NOT cheaper by the dozen. If you have
two Standard Schnauzers, it will cost you twice as much and so on and so on ......
When a dog is adopted, he should become your companion for LIFE. His needs
for love and security are no different from our own.
If you are still interested, and we hope you are, welcome to the
family of STANDARD SCHNAUZER ADMIRERS!
THE SSCA RESCUE COMMITTEE CANNOT VOUCH FOR THE TEMPERAMENT, HEALTH, OR LINE OF THE DOG, OTHER THAN AS STATED IN OUR PAPERWORK AS THE DOG MAY HAVE BEEN IN AN UNUSUAL SITUATION AND IN MANY CASES WITHOUT HISTORY AND MAY NOT SHOW ITS TRUE NATURE OR HEALTH UNTIL FINALLY PLACED.
Click here for an PDF version of the SSCA adoption application.
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