As a home guardian, the Standard Schnauzer excels. It readily accepts friends of the family, but warns away strangers with a strong voice which it saves for such occasions. And woe unto the attacker or intruder!
 

The Standard Schnauzer is not the breed for those who want a slow, placid dog, or a dog that can be "fed and forgotten", for they insist on being a part of the family activities and develop best when treated in this manner. For this reason, most Standards, even the top show winners, are house pets. They are outstanding companions, known for their devotion and love of the family. Although they may have favorites, they are not just a "one person dog" but instead become a member of the entire family.
 

Due to their intelligence, they learn quickly; but like a mischievous child, they need a firm, but not rough, hand. They will get away with whatever they can and soon "rule the house" if allowed. They excel in obedience and agility, both in enthusiasm and intelligence.
 

Every dog, no matter what the breed, needs some basic maintenance grooming: nails clipped, ears cleaned, coat brushed. The Standard Schnauzer, however, requires even more grooming as do all wire-coated breeds. Beard and leg hair must be combed and brushed often enough to prevent the formation of mats. Generally, a Standard Schnauzer's coat must be "stripped" at 5 or 6 month intervals. Stripping small amounts of the coat every two weeks will keep the dog in coat for longer periods. Stripping (or plucking) is necessary if you plan to show your dog or like the look of a stripped coat. However, house pets may be machine-clippered, a quicker and more simple process. A properly groomed Schnauzer should not shed.
 

They are not always easy to find, as they are not bred in great numbers. As with all pure-bred dogs, the worst place to find a good one is in the large puppy retailers. To get a good quality puppy, you should go directly to a breeder who is a member of a regional Standard Schnauzer Club or a member of the Standard Schnauzer Club of America. As a rule, the Standard Schnauzer breeder does not breed merely to sell dogs, but to continue and improve upon a lineage which he considers to be the best. Buying from a breeder is not just a business transaction.