About the SSCNC
Welcome
For over 81 years, the Standard Schnauzer Club of Northern California has brought together owners, breeders, and admirers of this remarkable breed. Through events like our Regional Specialty Show, Grooming Day, and the San Francisco Schnauzer Walk, we build community, share knowledge, and celebrate the Standard Schnauzer in all its versatility.
Our history
Founded in the mid-1940s, the SSCNC is the oldest of the eight regional Standard Schnauzer clubs recognized by the Standard Schnauzer Club of America. Just a decade after the national club was established in 1933, our founders created a local home for Northern California's Standard Schnauzer community.
For more than eight decades, we've remained true to that original purpose: fostering friendship and sportsmanship among people who love this breed while supporting its health, type, and function. Though much has changed since our earliest days, the heart of the club remains the same—a shared commitment to ensuring Standard Schnauzers thrive for generations to come.
As an affiliate of the Standard Schnauzer Club of America, we uphold the SSCA Code of Ethics and work alongside the national club to promote responsible breeding and ownership.
Our mission
The SSCNC exists to:
Protect and advance the Standard Schnauzer breed in Northern California
Encourage sportsmanship among owners, breeders, and fanciers
Educate the public about the breed's unique qualities, care, and history
Build community among Standard Schnauzer families through events and shared resources
Support responsible breeding and ownership practices
Celebrate the versatility and companionship these dogs bring to our lives
Where we are
Our members reside in areas surrounding San Francisco, Sacramento, Stockton, and everywhere in between. Whether you're in the heart of the city, the wine country hills, the Central Valley, or anywhere across Northern California, you're welcome here. The SSCNC brings together enthusiasts from a wide and diverse region—united by our love for the breed.
What we do
Regional Specialty Show
Each year, we host our Regional Specialty Show as part of the Harvest Moon Classic at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. It's a highlight of our calendar—an AKC-licensed conformation show where Standard Schnauzers compete and are celebrated, and a wonderful gathering for our members. In addition to conformation, Harvest Moon also offers several performance events including Rally, Obedience, Agility, Scent Work, FastCAT, CGC / CGCA testing and Trick Dog testing.
Fun Day
Our fun day is typically themed around a performance event that schnauzers excel at. We have done fun days focused on herding, scent work and more. this event is both a workshop and an opportunity for the dogs to have fun doing what they love.
Grooming Day
Standard Schnauzers have a distinctive wiry coat that requires proper care. Our Grooming Day events bring members together for hands-on learning, whether you're a seasoned handler or figuring out stripping for the first time. It's educational, social, and always a good time.
San Francisco Schnauzer Walk
One of our most beloved events—the Schnauzer Walk is a group outing through the city where owners and dogs can socialize and show off our favorite breed to the public. If you've never seen a pack of Standard Schnauzers strolling through San Francisco, you're missing out.
Community & Education
Beyond our signature events, we serve as a resource for anyone interested in the Standard Schnauzer. Whether you're considering adding one to your family, looking for a reputable breeder, or seeking advice on training and care, our members are happy to help. We're a friendly, welcoming group—and we love talking about our dogs.
Join us
Whether you're a long-time Standard Schnauzer owner or just discovering the breed, we welcome you. Our club is made up of people from all walks of life who share one thing in common: a deep appreciation for the Standard Schnauzer. We'd love to have you join us at our next event—or simply reach out to say hello.
For membership information or questions, please visit our Contact page.
Club Officers
President: Mark Marvin
1st VP / Membership Chair: Becky Caja
2nd VP / Specialty Chair: Jeanie Marvin
Secretary: Mary Wood
Treasurer: Cheryl Owens
Member At Large: Mary Lou Just
Member At Large: Dottie Michelmore
Newsletter Editor: Emily Lowrie