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THE SCHNAUZER
TEMPERAMENT AND APPEARANCE The Schnauzer’s beginning as a farm dog is still evident. Schnauzers make excellent ratters and mousers, love the opportunity to exercise an instinct to work herds and see themselves as family protectors. While they are not natural guard dogs and are unlikely to attack a person to protect property, they are a watch dog that will loyally protect its family. The farmers of Germany relied on the Schnauzer to protect their families. Young children would be watched over by the dogs while the older family members worked elsewhere on the property. They earned for themselves the nickname of the "kinder watcher" or childminder. Their intelligence and ability to discriminate between friends and threats also earned them the nickname of the "dog with the human brain". This is supported by their adaptability. While essentially a one family dog they will recognise people from their past while still acknowledging their new family. They are adaptable and do fit into changed circumstances, although each is an individual. The modern Schnauzer should display the reliability, love for children and adaptability of its forebears. We love the keen intelligence and lively, appealing personality. Alert and reliable they give loyalty and protection in return for companionship. They are not to be left in the garden and out of the family environment. The Schnauzer should fit in well with young families and with less active older people. They are happiest when part of the family as a four legged person.
Males should stand 47 cm (19 inches) at the shoulder and females 45 cm (18 inches). Sturdily built, robust and square; they are noted for their beautiful beard, eyebrows and leg furnishings. The harsh wiry coat, brick shaped head and neat high set v-shaped ears complement expressive medium sized dark eyes. The breed is strong, vigorous and capable of great endurance. Its coat should not moult and requires grooming to keep it looking smart. This can be either learnt by the owner or the dog
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