CANINE CORNER WITH REBECCA HAWKINS
THE SCHNAUZER
The Schnauzer can be traced back to Germany, to as far as the 15th century.
Although how they began is highly debatable topic, it is believed the breed descended from a mix of working dogs, including the German Pinscher, and some terrier breeds. They were originally known as Wire-Haired Pinschers, it wasn’t until the 19th century they were known as Schnauzers or ‘Mittelschnauzer’ (Medium Schnauzer).
The word ‘Schnauzer’ means beard, one of the breeds most recognised characteristics along with their distinctive eyebrows which help the dog display their cheeky facial expressions.
This energetic and playful breed was originally developed as a farm dog, primarily a ratting dog to control vermin in stables and homes.
Its robust build, keen intelligence and excellent hunting instincts made it well suited for this task. Along with its stocky build and tenacity to find prey, its bushy beard helped keep its face protected when hunting. Due to its alertness it was also valued for its ability to sound the alarm, and guard properties and livestock.
There are three sizes of Schnauzer, the original being the classed as the ‘standard’.
In the 17th century the ‘Giant Schnauzer’ or ‘Riessenschnauzer’ was introduced. The breeds creation came about by crossing the Standard Schnauzer with larger breeds, likely the Great Dane and possibly the Bouvier des Flandres.
The giant breed that is confident and bold was valued for its strength, intelligence and versatility. It served several roles, including driving the cattle, guard dog and general farm dog. The breed was essential for farmers who needed a reliable and protective companion and guard dog who would deter intruders and keep the livestock safe.
Later, towards the end of the 18th century came the desire for a smaller version of the Standard. So the Standard was mixed with the Affenpinscher to create the ‘Miniature Schnauzer’. Or Zwergschnauzer (Dwarf Schnauzer).
While being small in size it certainly makes up for in personality. This friendly and sociable dog has heaps of spirit, which has made it such a desirable companion dog.
The miniature schnauzer is now the most popular size of Schnauzer in the UK. Most likely down to their size and adaptability, they are often referred to as a big dog in a small body. They can be very vocal but rarely aggressive, they are up for anything and interested so make an ideal busy family dog. They do however require a firm and patient owner when it comes to training due to their stubborn side. They have a wiry double coat that hardly sheds, so ideal for allergy sufferers. It does however require regular grooming, trimming or hand stripping.
Why does my dog do that?
Some dogs will spin in circles and scratch at their bedding causing a huge mess before laying down. Your dog is tapping in to its ancient canine heritage when it circles, digs and tramples. Well before we had the modern baskets or sofas, dogs in the wild had to sleep in the open if they weren’t near a den. At bedtime, packs of dogs would huddle together for warmth and protection. Circling provided room, in the trampled down grass or other vegetation for them all to camp down in comfort, often making the bed far bigger than needed. The reason for this was to fool possible predators into making themselves appear larger in the hope that the predator may decide to go elsewhere and hunt for a smaller more vulnerable target.