**Allied spies undercovered details of an Axis plan to transport a fortune in gold to a more secure location. The Allies have planned an attack to intercept the gold during its stopover in Bremen. **By Dersaidin"
The Standard Schnauzer is the original
breed of
the three sizes of
Schnauzer,
although it is sometimes classified as a
terrier. The
breed is a handsome, robust, squarely built, medium-sized
dog with aristocratic
bearing, making it a popular subject of painters
Albrecht Dürer and
Rembrandt.
Appearance
The Standard Schnauzer has a harsh, wiry
outer coat
with minimal shedding that is salt and pepper or solid black in color. Ideal
weight and height ranges vary considerably from one breed club standard to the
next. Males range between 18 and 20 inches (45cm-50cm) high at the
withers and
generally weigh between 35 and 50 pounds (15.5 kg-22.5 kg). Females are ideally
between 17 and 19 inches (42.5 cm-47.5 cm) high at the
withers and
generally weigh between 30 and 45 pounds (13.5kg-20.2kg).
Temperament
The Standard Schnauzer is sociable, alert, a comedian, a formidable guard,
and a family companion. Properly raised and trained, they are reliable
companions with their own family's children. They are usually not unnecessary
barkers. They are noted for guarding the family home and for displaying devotion
to their immediate family. They learn fairly easily and have been used as
retrievers
both on land and in the water.
Health
The Standard Schnauzer in general is a very healthy breed with a relatively
long life span from 14 to 16 years.
History
The breed originated in the
Middle
Ages in southern
Germany and
adjoining regions of
Switzerland and
France. Its ancestry might have included the
Spitz and various
other guard
dogs. The Schnauzer's original uses included catching
vermin —such as
rats—and guarding.
References
Fogle, Bruce, DVM (2000). The New Encyclopedia of the Dog. Doring
Kindersley (DK).
ISBN 0-7894-6130-7.