Temperament and care ratings
The American Kennel Club rates every breed from 1 to 5 on the traits below. They describe how the breed tends to be, not a promise about one dog.
Coat: Wiry coat, medium.
A Standard Schnauzer suits
- A family with young children (rated 5 of 5 with kids)
- A home that changes often, or apartment life (adaptability 4 of 5)
- A first-time owner who wants an eager learner (trainability 5 of 5)
- People who hate dog hair on the sofa (shedding 1 of 5)
- Anyone who wants a natural watchdog (protective nature 5 of 5)
Think twice if
- You can't offer daily training or puzzle games (mental stimulation needs 5 of 5)
What the ratings mean day to day
An energy score of 3 and mental stimulation needs of 5 mean a good daily walk and some play. With barking at 3 of 5 and a watchdog score of 5, expect some barking at the door. Grooming at 3 of 5 means weekly brushing.
Popularity
In 2020 it ranked 92.
Breeds with a similar profile
Closest matches across all 14 trait ratings:
Staffordshire Bull TerrierKidsEnergyShedding
Compare: Standard Schnauzer vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier · Standard Schnauzer vs Old English Sheepdog · Standard Schnauzer vs Boxer
Frequently asked questions
Are Standard Schnauzers good with kids?
The AKC rates the Standard Schnauzer 5 out of 5 for being good with young children. That is the top score.
Do Standard Schnauzers shed a lot?
Shedding is rated 1 out of 5 (very low), and coat grooming 3 out of 5.
Are Standard Schnauzers easy to train?
Trainability is rated 5 out of 5 and mental stimulation needs 5 out of 5.
How much energy does a Standard Schnauzer have?
Energy is rated 3 out of 5 and playfulness 4 out of 5.
Ratings: American Kennel Club breed pages, compiled February 2022 (AKC Standard Schnauzer page). 2025 ranking: AKC, published August 2026. How we check.