Giant Schnauzer Breed Description

Introduction

The most powerful of the German Schnauzers, these dogs were developed by increasing the size of the Standard Schnauzer. They were recognized in 1600s as great herders but were not shown until 1909 in Munich, where they were called the Russian Bear Schnauzer. Giant Schnauzers are intelligent, protective, loyal, good with children and very reliable. While they train easily thanks to their high intelligence, they are thinkers and self-learners who need dedicated owners who can challenge and motivate them. They respond best to firm, consistent training with positive rewards. These dogs require lots of exercise and must have some sort of work to do to stay content. Schnauzers (the word means 'muzzle' in German)have a wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat. Groom weekly with a short wire brush to remove loose hair and dirt. The soft undercoat can matt if not groomed. They weigh 55 to 80 lbs. and stand 23-28" at the shoulders.

General Description

The height and length of the Giant Schnauzer are equal, so it looks square viewed from any angle. The square muzzle is the same length as the top of the rectangular head. Nose and lips are black, eyes are dark and deep set. V-shaped ears are carried close to the head if not cropped.

Front and back legs are straight, further accenting the animal's square proportions. Back is straight, with tail set high. Traditionally docked; that practice is now illegal in the E.U. and elsewhere.

These dogs have a hard wiry outer coat and a dense soft undercoat. Solid black or salt and pepper are the only two colors available. Eyebrows, beard and whiskers are coarser and longer than the rest of their coat.

Temperament

Giant Schnauzers are unique dogs. They are smart and stubborn, and respond best to training that includes regular rewards. They will dominate an inexperienced or inconsistent owner. They tend to be dog aggressive, which means they don't do well in most doggie day care facilities and can get into serious trouble at the neighborhood dog park.

Happy and vigorous, with enough exercise these delightful animals will be at their best. They are loving family members and excel at everything from carting to agility trials if you so desire. They can be suspicious of strangers; early socialization may help moderate this trait.

The critical needs of a Giant Schnauzer are love and activity. Be sure you can provide both in copious quantities before adopting one of these remarkable dogs.

Health and Care

Brushing these dogs will keep their undercoat from matting and remove the shed hairs. The outer coat needs nothing besides that. Bathe only when necessary. They can be trimmed to even out fur and special attention should be paid to keeping their ears clean. As a breed, they are susceptible to toe cancer, which can be fatal. Epilsepy and hip dysplasia, hereditary conditions, are also present, making it vital for you to work with a professional breeder working to eliminate these problems.
 

Colors

Giant Schnauzers come in two colors, solid black and salt and pepper.

Living Area

Giants require a lot of exercise as they are energetic dogs. The best suited home for a Giant would be out on an acreage or in a home that is active and would provide the dog with stimulation and activity. These dogs can do well in the city though, as long as they are exercised enough.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Giant Schnauzer breeders with puppies for sale.