Known to many as “the dog with the human eyes,” the schnauzer is a dog that packs a mighty punch. These wirehaired pooches are a bit cartoon-like, with iconic mustaches and a boisterous attitude. Owners everywhere enjoy equal parts silliness and snuggles that a schnauzer can bring to a household. Want to know more about these enthusiastic pups? Here are nine facts that only schnauzer people would understand.
1. It’s All in the German Name
Born and bred in Germany, schnauzer is an authentically German name. Schnauze means “muzzle” or “snout”. Take one look at a schnauzers face and you’ll know it’s referring to the their distinctively shaped snout and flared-out facial whiskers.
2. They Have a Different Temperament Than Other Terriers
Most terriers are hardwired to burrow in the ground to hunt for rodents and other small prey. Even though schnauzers are excellent at catching rats, they weren’t necessarily born for burrowing. Due to this, the schnauzer personality isn’t naturally as aggressive as other terriers in the same category. In the past, many schnauzers lived in farmhouses and were bred to be guard dogs. However, they also had to be small enough to fit in a cart on the way to and from the market.
3. Their Wire Hair Helps with Allergies
Hypoallergenic dogs come in all shapes and sizes. The schnauzers’ natural wire hair rarely sheds making these dogs great for people who have allergies to pet fur. Bonus: the wire hair also helps with keeping schnauzers fur clean, as dirt rarely sticks to them!
4. The Purpose of a Schnauzer’s Mustache
Not only does the mustache makes the schnauzer look distinguished, but the beard-like fur also helps protect against unwanted house guests. Since schnauzers have a long history of rat catching, the thick facial hair helps guard the dog’s face from any rodent attacks.
5. Miniature Schnauzers Are Made of More than One Dog
In an attempt to breed a more compact size of a schnauzer, breeders bred different types of dogs together. They combined a poodle and an affenpinscher with a standard schnauzer to create the perfect miniature version of an already-celebrated dog. By the late 1800s, the miniature schnauzer was recognized as its own breed and became a common household pet.
6. They Like to Tell You About Everything
Perhaps after hearing all the humans talk, a schnauzer wants to contribute their own two cents. They like to let you know they’re in the room in a big way. Schnauzers naturally love to vocalize, bark, and cry often. Training a schnauzer as soon as possible will help curb your dogs need for telling you how it is 24/7.
7. They Have an Inner and Outer Life
There are many videos of schnauzers having tons of excess energy. Although it may look exhausting after a while, that’s only half the story! As much as they love being social, schnauzers also need a lot of quiet time for snuggles and afternoon naps.
8. Schnauzer’s Voyage to the United States
Schnauzers started appearing in the United States in the early 1900s. This was likely due to German immigrants moving to the U.S. and bringing their furry friends with them. Another way schnauzers got to the U.S. were from American travelers. Americans abroad in Germany spotted this spunky breed and fell in love. Who could blame them?
9. The Schnauzer Is a Family Dog
Although some breeds attach themselves to one person fast, schnauzers love and appreciate all members of their family. Due to their playful nature, the standard schnauzer loves children. Because of their guard dog history, they can make excellent watchdogs for your home.
Having an enthusiastic schnauzer around would brighten up anyone’s day. Between their playful personality and their need for snuggles, schnauzers make great family pets and the most handsome mustachioed pooches we ever did see.
