Standard Schnauzer vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Standard Schnauzer vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonStandard Schnauzer is originated from Germany but Australian Shepherd is originated from United States. Standard Schnauzer may grow 7 cm / 2 inches shorter than Australian Shepherd. Standard Schnauzer may weigh 6 kg / 13 pounds lesser than Australian Shepherd. Both Standard Schnauzer and Australian Shepherd has almost same life span. Standard Schnauzer may have more litter size than Australian Shepherd. Standard Schnauzer requires High maintenance. But Australian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance

History

standard schnauzer - historyComing out of Germany in the 14th and 15th century is the Standard Schnauzer or Mittelschnauzer. Both the Giant Schnauzer and Miniature Schnauzer are descendants of the Standard Schnauzer. The first name for this breed was the Wire-haired Pinscher until 1879. The breed is a working breed that is popular in Europe and was first in a dog show in 1879 in Hanover, Germany. In 1997 they won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club in New York.

These medium size Schnauzers were bred in the Middle Ages to be versatile in working and herding in Germany. There seems to be artwork from the 14th through the 16th centuries featuring this breed of dog as a hunter. It is believed that the common ancestors of the Standard Schnauzer is the German Pinscher and the gray Wolf Spitz, along with the black German Poodle and the Bolognese.

It was 1850 when the breed gained recognition as a purebred with distinct and recognizable features. Those are not all the same features that the dogs of today show. These dogs had thick hair on their face, a double coat that is wiry, and their tails were cropped. These dogs were initially Wire-haired German Pinscher then in 1879, a dog named Schnauzer won Best in Show in Hanover. By 1900, the breed was being called Schnauzer everywhere.

The first breed standard was written under the Wire-haired German Pinscher name in the early 1880’s. This standard allowed for a lot of different colors, but the salt and pepper of today was not introduced until the late 1800’s. Then the standard was rewritten in 1907 for the Standard Schnauzer with this as the dominant color.

The first official Standard Schnauzer imported to the United States came in 1905 even though there is a claim that one competed in the 1899 Westminster Kennel Club in the Miscellaneous Class. Following the first World War, the breed became increasingly popular in the States. At that time the US club was called the Wire-haired Pinscher Club of America in 1925. Both standard and miniature sized schnauzer are included in this club.

The breeds were separated in 1933 and became the Standard Schnauzer Club of America and classified by the American Kennel Club as part of the Working Group. In 1926 they moved the Standard Schnauzer to the Terrier Group. By 1926 the Schnauzer Club of Great Britain was formed.

australian shepherd - historyThe Australian Shepherd, known fondly as ‘Aussies’, is actually an American breed, with the first official registry being in the 1950s. Basque Shepherds from Spain settled in Australia at the end of the 19th century, later moving to the United Stated with their dogs in tow. It is from these dogs that the breed originated. In the UK too, this breed of dog has many enthusiastic followers.

For many years, the Australian Shepherd has been recognized for their wonderful abilities as stock- or herding dogs, and today in Australia they continue to work as stock dogs and often take part in herding trials.

More recently, this working dog breed has been selectively bred to develop both Toy- and Miniature Aussies, and the American Stock Dog Registry actually recognizes 3 sizes today.The Australian Shepherd Club of America was also founded in 1957 to promote the breed.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Germany
United States
Height Male:
46 - 51 cm
18 - 21 inches
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
Height Female:
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 26 kg
35 - 58 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 16 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 13
6 - 9
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Mittelschnauzer, Wire-Haired Pinscher, Schnauzer
Aussie
Colors Available:
black, Pepper-and-salt
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
Coat:
Harsh and wiry when hand stripped, soft when clippered/scissored
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Constant
Temperament:
Alert, Gentle, Loyal, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Grooming:
High maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Hard
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Description

standard schnauzer puppy - descriptionToday’s Standard Schnauzer is a square, robust, medium sized dog. The breed boasts heavy eyebrows and thick beards. They are salt and pepper or black and their coat is wiry and stiff. The breed have excellent muscle tone and a body in proportion height to length. Their build is rugged, and coat is dense.

Coat

australian shepherd puppy - descriptionSimilar in appearance to the Border Collie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium sized dog and has a medium length coat which is straight to wavy with a weather resistant undercoat. The range of coat colours is amazing, and you’ll find blue, blue merle, black and red merle and all of these are with or without tan points. The Australian Shepherd is a drop-eared breed where prick ears are sometimes seen. Some Aussies are born with naturally bobbed tails while most have full, long tails.

Different Eye Colour Combinations

There is variety in the eye colour too, and they are often heterochromatic, which means that they can have two different coloured eyes or the one eye can even be bi-coloured. Most times the eyes are brown, but they can be blue too.

Characteristics

1Children friendliness – yes, they love children and love to play.

2.Special talents include cancer scenting/search and rescue

3.Adaptability is good can live in the apartment/play indoors

4.Learning ability excellent but independent and stubborn

australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, learning quickly. As a herding dog, he also has strong guarding instincts and will make a good watch dog. The dog has a balanced, even disposition, and even though he may show some reserve, he is certainly not a shy dog and isn’t aggressive.

He Craves Human Companionship

Your Aussie is a kind, loving, and devoted pet. He loves his human family and wants to spend lots of time with them. Don’t leave him without human companionship as he craves it and forms strong bonds with his family. Provide him with good care and with lots of fun and games and you’ve got an exceptional friend for life.

Health Problems

standard schnauzer puppies - health problemsThere are a couple of major hereditary health issues faced by the Standard Schnauzer.

  • Hip dysplasia – can cause lameness or arthritis.
  • Elbow dysplasia– can cause lameness or arthritis.
  • Eye disease – cataracts – can diminish eyesight or cause blindness.
  • Heart disease – can be fatal.
  • Epilepsy – can be treated with medication.
  • Skin issues including cancer – various degrees of seriousness.

australian shepherd puppies - health problemsAussies are a healthy breed and won’t cost you a fortune at the vet. However, like every other breed, they are also prone to certain health conditions such as cancer. When choosing a puppy, always look for a good, reputable breeder who can show you health clearances.

We look at some common health ailments to be alert about

Hip Dysplasia

This is a dog ailment that can be inherited. It is where the femur doesn't fit properly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Also, as the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy an hereditary disorder where the seizures your dog gets can be treated and controlled.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans, commonly known as OCD is an orthopedic condition which comes about because of improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It can cause painful stiffening of the elbow joint for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that can finally lead to blindness. Reputable Aussie dog breeders have their dogs' eyes certified regularly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Your Aussie Puppy Needs Vaccinations

Your newborn Australian Shepherd may well be strong and healthy, but he isn’t immune from life-threatening illnesses. Vaccinations are imperative for your Aussie puppy, with vets usually recommending that puppies be vaccinated for the first time from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

These vaccinations will include the 5-in-one and includes Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Later on the puppy will get his first rabies shot and he will also require booster vaccinations.

Caring The Pet

standard schnauzer dogs - caring1Feeding the puppy: At 8-12 weeks feed four times a day. At 3 to 6 months feed three times a day. At 6 to 12 months feed twice a day.

2.Feeding the adult – feed one meal a day or two small ones.

3.Points for Good Health – very energetic breed

4. Games and Exercises – The breed is extremely athletic and needs daily exercise. They are playful with dogs and people and they are family dogs. They want to go wherever you go. Hiking, running, jogging and organized activities.

They are great at obedience, agility, flyball, disc dog, herding and tracking. They have also been involved in search and rescue, bomb detection, and cancer detection.

General Grooming

australian shepherd dogs - caringWith his medium length coat, the Australian Shepherd sheds. In fact this particular breed sheds his hair the entire year round, but you’ll notice that with the arrival of Spring, he sheds more as this is when he is losing his Winter coat. You will most certainly need to brush his coat at least 2x a week to get rid of all those tufts of hair and to also prevent matting.

Feeding

A puppy will need 4 bowls of vet-recommended food a day. How much your adult Australian Shepherd gets will depend on his age, size and activity levels.The quality of food you buy will make a difference as it will keep your Aussie in good shape. Remember to include raw or cooked meat into his diet once a week or so. For more on feeding your Aussie, speak to your vet. Always ensure a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Training and Socialization

The Australian Shepherd is a strong willed dog, used to playing the dominant role with the herding of livestock. He’ll need firm training and socialization if you want to make him an amicable family pet.

Like many herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are loyal to their family and don’t easily take to strangers. Aussies make awesome companions for families with kids who have been taught how to treat dogs and other pets with kindness and gentleness. Just like a dog needs socialization, a child needs to respect a sleeping, feeding dog and to leave him in peace.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Standard Schnauzer vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Standard Schnauzer vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  3. Standard Schnauzer vs Sakhalin Husky - Breed Comparison
  4. Standard Schnauzer vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  5. Standard Schnauzer vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  6. Standard Schnauzer vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  7. Standard Schnauzer vs Portuguese Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. Standard Schnauzer vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  9. Standard Schnauzer vs Puli - Breed Comparison
  10. Standard Schnauzer vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  11. Standard Schnauzer vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  12. Standard Schnauzer vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  13. Standard Schnauzer vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  14. Standard Schnauzer vs McNab - Breed Comparison
  15. Standard Schnauzer vs Porcelaine - Breed Comparison
  16. Standard Schnauzer vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  17. Standard Schnauzer vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  18. Standard Schnauzer vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  19. Standard Schnauzer vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  20. Standard Schnauzer vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  21. Standard Schnauzer vs Pumi - Breed Comparison
  22. Standard Schnauzer vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  23. Standard Schnauzer vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  24. Standard Schnauzer vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Standard Schnauzer vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  27. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Australian Shepherd vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  29. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  30. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  31. Bearded Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  32. Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  33. Dutch Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  34. Blue Healer vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  35. English Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  36. Australian Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  37. Catahoula Cur vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  38. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  39. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  40. Bergamasco vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  41. Berger Picard vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  42. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  43. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  44. German Coolie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  45. Bohemian Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  46. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  47. Red Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  48. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  49. Blue Lacy vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  50. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds