Schnauzer Behavior

The schnauzer makes a friendly family pet, as it does well with children and usually has an overall pleasant personality. Schnauzer behavior and temperament is often extremely variable from animal to animal, so much so that it may feel as though you are dealing with different breeds entirely. However, all schnauzers have a number of standard behavioral traits, both good and bad, that you should be prepared for before adopting one.

  1. Playful

    • Schnauzers are generally a very playful breed. Even the most docile schnauzer enjoys playtime, and will fetch, frolic or play tug-of-war for hours on end without ever losing interest. They love walks and can take several a day without becoming tired. As such, they are ideal for a family with a high-energy lifestyle.

    Easily Bored

    • The downside of the schnauzers innately playful personality is that they become easily bored. When they lack mental or physical stimulation, it is not unusual for the schnauzer to become destructive. Chewing, digging and creating general mayhem are all standard behaviors for a bored schnauzer.

    Stubborn

    • Schnauzers, like many terriers, are renown for their stubbornness. They desire to have things their way and will end up ruling the house if left unchecked. Even with well disciplined schnauzers, owners often report difficulty with leash training. It is not uncommon for schnauzers to pull on their leash or even refuse to walk when wearing one.

    Smart and Trainable

    • When provided with firm and consistent discipline, the schnauzer is very trainable. Its high intelligence makes it possible to quickly teach it complicated commands. Good training often trumps the schnauzer's innate stubbornness, making them obedient and faithful companions.

    Chasing

    • Schnauzers have a natural tendency to chase things, especially other animals. This is a trait common to many terriers. When the schnauzer is the only pet in the home, this behavioral trait may go unnoticed. However, it can make it difficult for them to socialize with other animals, and extra care must be taken when introducing a schnauzer to a new furry friend.

    Barking

    • Schnauzers are naturally very vocal and may bark frequently, which can be irritating for their owners as well as everyone in the neighborhood. Fortunately, the schnauzer does not have the high-pitched "yip" common to most terriers. Their bark is low and sounds almost like a short howl. Frequent barking is usually a symptom of a poorly trained schnauzer, and with proper training, this undesirable trait can be curbed.

    Guarding

    • In addition to their natural inclination toward chasing and barking, schnauzers will often engage in guarding behavior. As such, they make excellent guard-dogs. However, when there is not an intruder present, guarding behavior can be annoying. Schnauzers may choose an object or person and guard it fiercely, barking at anyone who tries to get close. This tendency should be controlled with proper discipline and training, or the schnauzer will quickly claim ownership of the whole house.

    Social Skills

    • The schnauzer is an affectionate, patient breed. However, they also have a tendency toward suspicion and mistrust. As a result, they may bark at or shy away from new people or animals. To prevent a schnauzer from being either too shy or too aggressive, owners must make a concentrated effort to socialize their pet early on. A well socialized schnauzer is friendly and interacts well with others.