Hi -I'm getting in on this one a little late. My dog (Cagney) is a 7yr old Standard Schnauzer. It is so important to research the breed! Standard Schnauzers are absolutely wonderful, but this dog is a high energy working dog. She needs a off leash(preferable) run every day. The key here is she needs to be worked and then, settles nicely for the day. Very active puppies. The Standard is a real watchdog. She watches and listens for any breaches in the perimeter of her territory. They will instinctively bark unless deprogrammed from a puppy (i think this might be hard)This quality could make it difficult in an apartment- thats not to say if a pup grew up in one and understood the noises of the building--maybe it could work.
Standards- very devoted to family, cautious with strangers. Cagney was very socialized. They are described at the Westminister Dog Show as, "dog with a human brain". They really can be stubborn because they know so much, or think they do!!
Sweet and loving companions!!!!!!! Love my dog and my friends Standard. Absolute athletes. Can compete with other working and sporting dogs. At the dog park Cagney always shocks people because they didn't know this breed is so agile.She loves to swim...crazy for it!
I will always have a Standard because they have so many outstanding and wonderful qualities. I would have to say she has been a handleful until about 6yrs. She is now in those glory days when you can see the benefits of all your hard training. They are soooo worth it!!!!!
Biggest issues 1) need exercise 2) need consistent disipline (re stubborn)
3) guard dog mentality-barking to protect family
Best qualities 1) personality supreme 2)devoted to family 3)sweet natured
Good Luck
