The Mittelschnauzer is a medium-sized dog from Germany. It is also sometimes referred to as a standard schnauzer or just as a schnauzer. The lively four-legged friends are considered intelligent and can sometimes be a bit idiosyncratic. Nevertheless, the Mittelschnauzer is ideal as a family dog.
Key facts at a glance:
- FCI: Group 2, Section 1.2, Standard No. 182 (without working test)
- Life expectancy: 13 to 16 years
- Origin: Germany
- Size: 45-50cm
- Weight: 14-20kg
- Colours: black or pepper salt
- Character: spirited, stubborn, friendly, lively, affectionate, courageous
Origin and History of the Medium Schnauzer
The Mittelschnauzer is the oldest of the three breeds recognized as Schnauzers today. It probably comes from southern Germany, where it was used as a guard dog and to hunt mice and rats as early as the 19th century.
At that time Schnauzers and Pinschers were not differentiated from each other. Because of its rough-haired coat, the Mittelschnauzer was therefore simply referred to as the rough-haired Pinscher.
This only changed at the beginning of the 20th century, when the Pinscher and Schnauzer Club eV, founded in Munich in 1895, established its own breed standard for the Schnauzer. Today, in addition to the medium schnauzer, the larger giant schnauzer and the smaller miniature schnauzer are recognized as independent breeds.
According to the Schnauzer and Pinscher Club, around 1,000 Mittelschnauzer puppies are born in Germany every year.
Description of the medium schnauzer
With a bit of luck, Mittelschnauzer owners can look forward to a life expectancy of up to 16 years. The medium-sized animals reach a shoulder height of 45 to 50 centimetres, although the breed standard does not provide any special specifications for males and females.
The Standard Schnauzer weighs between 14 and 20 kilograms. The Schnauzer is a powerful dog with a square build and a powerful, elongated head. It has high-set drop ears and dark, forward-facing eyes.
The backline of the medium schnauzer slopes slightly backwards. His chest is well developed and his belly is moderately tucked up. The Schnauzer has muscular legs, with the front legs vertical and the hind legs sloping.
However, as with all types of Schnauzers, the most distinctive feature of the breed is without a doubt the distinctive facial hair in the form of long eyebrows and a prominent mustache. Regarding coat coloring, the breed standard allows Schnauzers in black or salt-and-pepper.
Character of the medium schnauzer
The Schnauzer’s original purpose required a fearless and courageous nature, which is still one of the typical characteristics of the breed today. That being said, the Medium Schnauzer is quite lively and spirited.
However, he does not tend to be aggressive. Instead, he is an extremely friendly and good-natured dog who forms a very close bond with his owners. He is usually reserved and distant towards strangers.
One trait that makes handling the Medium Schnauzer a challenge at times is its stubbornness. If you are looking for a dog that is unconditionally submissive and can be commanded around at will, you will probably not be happy with a Schnauzer.
Possible uses for the medium schnauzer
Medium Schnauzers are adaptable and intelligent dogs whose training requires a certain consistency. It is also important to keep the agile four-legged friends sufficiently busy and to keep them mentally and physically busy.
The following dog sports, for example, are suitable for this purpose:
- agility
- obedience
- tournament dog sport
- tracking work
While the larger Giant Schnauzer is often used as a service dog, the Standard Schnauzer is particularly popular as a family and companion dog. In addition, due to its vigilance, it is still suitable as a guard dog, which reliably makes itself noticeable by barking.
Medium Schnauzer Diseases
The Mittelschnauzer is a fairly robust dog breed that is considered to be less susceptible to certain diseases. However, he is genetically at risk for eye and hip problems.
If you are interested in getting a medium schnauzer, you should definitely contact a reputable breeder. Otherwise, there may well be other health problems, such as tumor diseases.
We also recommend that you take out dog health insurance for your Mittelschnauzer. This way you don’t have to worry about high vet bills and you can always give your four-legged friend the best possible treatment.
Thorough grooming is a must for Standard Schnauzers
The Standard Schnauzer is one of those breeds that require thorough grooming. As with other wire-haired dogs, their coat will need trimming about two to three times a year.
Trimming and regular brushing prevent the hair from becoming matted. This not only has advantages for the Schnauzer’s appearance, but also reduces the risk of skin parasites.
If you don’t feel confident trimming your Schnauzer’s fur yourself, it’s best to contact a groomer in your area.