The Standard Schnauzer is the original Schnauzer. They are a German breed, which in the 15th and 16th century were held in high favor as a household companion. The Standard Schnauzer used to be classified as a terrier, but due to the fact that they were so often used as a working dog in Germany, they were moved into the working group. These dogs have been used to catch rats, guard farm carts, carry messages during wars, assist the red Cross, and serve with the police. They can also retrieve as well as guard sheep and cattle.

They are compact, square-built dogs, sturdy, alert, and have a stiff wire coat with bristling eyebrows and whiskers. They have great temperments and are extremely intelligent.

They originated with the crossing of the black German Poodle and gray wolf Spitz upon Wirehaired pinscher stock. From the Pinscher element derives the tendency to fawn-colored undercoat, and from the wolf Spitz the Schnauzer inherited the typical salt and pepper coat.

In America, they were originally classed as a terrier, though German breeders had always regarded them to be a working dog. His main vocation was that of a rat catcher, yard dog, and guard. Before World War I in Germany, ninety percent of the dogs used to guard the carts of farm produce in the marketplaces were Schnauzers.

Schnauzers were first exhibited as Wire-haired Pinschers in 1879 in Germany. In 1899 they were shown in the Miscellaneous Class at the Westminster kennel Club Show. The first recorded importation was in 1905, and twenty years later, the Schnauzer Club of America was founded.

They can be two colors: Salt and pepper, or solid black. They require professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Pets should be clippered, but for showing it is required that they are stripped to maintain the wiry coat. It is important to comb and brush their legs, chest and beard on a regular basis (between professional grooming) to prevent matting of their coat. This is especially important when the dog gets wet from rain or dew on the grass.