Description:
Alf is a little gray Schnauzer with maybe a touch of Cairne Terrier. We named her Alf because when we first got her she was a matted mess that looked like the character Alf from the 1980s TV series. (For those who missed this classic, Alf stands for Alien Life Form). We rescued her from the Seminole County Animal Shelter. I always wonder how these little sweethearts end up in a shelter without anyone coming to get them. Perhaps in this case it is because Alfie is heartworm positive and her owners didn't want to incur the expense of treating her. Well, don't worry, we'll take care of that and then find her a wonderful home!

According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, the Standard Schnauzer is probably the oldest of the three Schnauzer breeds. They are originally a German breed, named after the German word for muzzle, "Schnauze." They were used to accompany coaches, as messengers in World War I, and as vermin hunters and guards in stables and on farms. The breed was used to watch children, and even given the name "kinder watcher." Schnauzers have also been successfully trained as livestock guardians and as retrievers. The breed has been portrayed in paintings and tapestries of several European artists, including Rembrandt and Durer, who owned one. Today, it is esteemed as a watchdog and body guard, but above all, as a very lovable, spirited, loyal, intelligent companion. Some of the Standard Schnauzer's talents include: hunting, tracking, retrieving, watchdogging, guarding, military work, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.

The Standard Schnauzer is a fearless and protective dog. It makes a great watch and guard dog. It is lively, but not restless. High-spirited and affectionate, it has a personality of a Terrier. Clever, intelligent, demanding, and playful, Standard Schnauzers need companionship and are good dogs to travel with. This breed has a high learning rate, but can be quite willful and needs firm training. Standard Schnauzers may be very protective and dominant, guarding objects, places and people from other people. They should be socialized well when they are young to prevent over-protectiveness later in life. These energetic dogs need energetic and dominant owners, one who has the ability clearly demonstrate that they are the boss and not the dog. This breed does best with older considerate children. They have a life expectancy of 15 or more years.