How Korppret Standard Schnauzers Approaches Breeding and Health Testing
Updated
Korppret Standard Schnauzers, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, breeds Standard Schnauzers to the SSCA (Standard Schnauzer Club of America) breed standard and the AKC Code of Ethics, and screens breeding dogs for hips (OFA), eyes (CERF), thyroid, and DCM (cardiomyopathy). Breeding decisions put temperament first, then substance and coat. Puppies are raised in the home rather than a kennel, and are placed on either pet or show contracts.
What the breeding program is built around
The stated goal is to maintain the SSCA breed standard while following both the SSCA Code of Ethics and AKC rules. Within that framework, the priorities are explicit and ordered:
- Temperament — described as "utmost" in breeding decisions.
- Substance — the dog's build and body.
- Coat — addressed after temperament and substance.
This ordering matters if you are evaluating a litter: it tells you the breeders are selecting for a dog that lives well with people before selecting for appearance.
Health testing on breeding dogs
Before breeding, dogs are evaluated in four areas named on the site:
| Area | Testing body / method |
|---|---|
| Hips | OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) |
| Eyes | CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) |
| Thyroid | Thyroid testing |
| Heart (DCM) | Cardiomyopathy screening |
The site does not publish individual test results, certificate numbers, or a per-dog testing table. If verified results matter to your decision, ask for the specific dog's OFA and CERF records directly rather than relying on the program description.
How puppies are raised and placed
- Home-raised, never in a kennel — the site states puppies are raised in the home environment.
- Two contract types — pet or show.
- Pet contract terms — limited registration plus a spay/neuter agreement.
- Availability — described as occasional rather than continuous litters.
The limited-registration and spay/neuter terms are the practical details to read closely before signing, since they affect whether you could later breed or show the dog.
Who is behind the program
Dick and Judy Houskeeper have worked with Standard Schnauzers since 1992, after previously owning Miniature Schnauzers. Their involvement extends beyond breeding:
- Active members of their breed club; 18 years as Publications Chair.
- Judy has served on the SSCA Board and helped with National Specialties.
- Both serve as rescue coordinators for the State of Oklahoma.
- Recipients of the Ruth Inman Award at the 2010 National Specialty in Ventura, California.
- Club affiliations: Mid Continent Kennel Club, Standard Schnauzer Club of America, and Prairieland Standard Schnauzer Club.
Is this breed and program a fit for you?
The site is direct that the Standard Schnauzer "is not for everyone": it describes a strong, athletic breed with a stubborn streak. It also notes the Standard differs sharply from the Miniature and Giant Schnauzers in size, adaptability, lifespan, trainability, health, and grooming needs — so experience with a Mini does not transfer directly.
For owners who want an active outlet, the site points to SSCA venues including Agility, Barn Hunt, Conformation, Dock Diving, Farm Dog, Fast Cat, Herding, Nose Work, Obedience, Tracking, and Therapy.
If you want a home-raised puppy from health-screened parents and are prepared for a strong, athletic dog, this program's approach matches that profile. If you need a dog with minimal grooming or a more biddable temperament, the breed description itself suggests looking elsewhere.
Next step
For questions or more information, the site directs inquiries to [email protected]. Ask specifically about current or upcoming litters, the test results for the sire and dam, and the exact terms of the pet contract.