Schnauzer
The Schnauzer is a distinctive medium-sized utility breed that originated in Germany, where it was bred as a versatile farm and working dog.
Standing between 51 and 61 centimetres tall and weighing 25 to 34 kilograms, the Standard Schnauzer is instantly recognisable by its characteristic wiry coat, expressive eyebrows, and distinctive facial "moustache".
25-34kg
Weight
Medium
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Schnauzer
The breed's harsh outer coat and dense undercoat typically appear in solid black or attractive "pepper and salt" markings, providing excellent weather protection. Temperamentally, Schnauzers are bold, intelligent, and spirited companions with a keen, alert nature that makes them excellent watchdogs. They are fiercely loyal and affectionate with family members, though they tend to be reserved with strangers, making early socialisation particularly important. Highly trainable and eager to please, they respond well to consistent, positive training and thrive when given purposeful tasks. These energetic dogs require up to an hour of daily exercise to maintain physical and mental wellbeing. Without adequate stimulation, their considerable intelligence can lead to unwanted behaviours. When properly socialised from puppyhood, Schnauzers integrate well with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions for active households. With a lifespan of 12 to 14 years, they offer many years of devoted companionship.
Schnauzer at a Glance
- Group
- Utility
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 25–34 kg
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Schnauzer Temperament
The Schnauzer is a bold, intelligent, and spirited breed with a lively and alert nature that makes it an excellent family companion and watchdog. Loyal and affectionate with its family, it tends to be reserved and sometimes suspicious of strangers, which means early and thorough socialisation is important. They are generally good with children and can get along with other dogs, particularly when raised together. Highly trainable and eager to work, they respond well to consistent, positive training methods and enjoy having a job to do. They have good energy levels and need regular daily exercise to stay physically and mentally balanced. A devoted, versatile, and reliably hardy companion.
Schnauzer Lifestyle
The Schnauzer doesn't require a large home to be happy and does well with some outdoor space, even if it isn't large. Whether in the city or the countryside, they tend to settle well.
Dog Food for Schnauzer
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Schnauzer
Schnauzer Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Schnauzer weighing around 30 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.22 - £5.57
Per month
£157 - £167
Per year
£1906 - £2032
Schnauzer Characteristics
The Schnauzer requires a great deal of exercise and does best with an active owner and is easy to train. They are excellent with children of all ages, but can be left for short to moderate periods without issue. The coat is fairly easy to maintain with regular brushing and sheds at a fairly average rate. This is a very clever breed that benefits from puzzle toys and training to keep their mind busy.
Schnauzer Pros & Cons
Pros
- A naturally alert and capable watchdog with strong protective instincts
- Highly intelligent and trainable, with real talent for agility and obedience
- Adapts well to flat living as long as they get sufficient daily exercise
- Their low-shedding coat is tidy to live with and reduces grooming mess around the home
Cons
- Their wiry coat needs professional grooming roughly every six weeks to stay in shape
- Known to be escape-prone, so a very secure garden is essential
- Without early training and socialisation, protective instincts can develop into problem behaviours
- Can be stubborn if training is not consistent and firm from the start
