Despite the name, the Giant Schnauzer is not actually a giant dog, rather a more powerful and larger avatar of the standard Schnauzer. Its coat, beard and eyebrows are some of the distinctive attributes of the Giant Schnauzer.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Germany
Used for: Herding, companion, police work
Average Life Span: 12-15 years
Color: Solid black, salt and pepper
Coat: Wiry, hard double coat with a soft undercoat
Average Height: 26-28 inches
Average Weight: 60-105 pounds
Group: Herding, AKC working
History and Domestication
This breed originated in the Bavaria and Wurttenberg sections of Germany, which were agricultural areas and desperately needed farm dogs. As this dog was developed, it enabled the shepherds to easily drive their livestock to the market and acted as a guard dog by the butchers and breweries. The breed gained momentum when it was extensively used in World War I due to their trainability and intelligence. The breed is extensively used for police work.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This is large, powerful but compact dog with a square appearance. The head is strong and rectangular and the muzzle is about the same length. The large nose is black. Lips are black but do not overlap. The medium-sized eyes are oval in shape, deep-set and dark. The high-set ears can be cropped or left natural. The back and front legs are straight.
Care, Grooming and Health
The distinct wiry coat of the Giant Schnauzer is quite easy to look after. The undercoat requires serious attention or it will become matted unless combed and brushed once a week. Use a short wire brush for brushing. They must be clipped at least four times a year. Ear care also needs special attention. The breed sheds little or almost no hair.
The breed has tremendous energy requirements and if not provided with enough exercise, they will start bouncing off the walls. Even the well-trained dogs tend to become high-stung. These energetic dogs will love all the exercise you can provide them apart from regular walks and runs. They love indulging in running, hiking, swimming and biking.
This breed is prone to cancer and epilepsy. They are also at an increased risk to bloat.
Living Conditions
The Giant Schnauzer is not recommended for an apartment life. These dogs are fairly active indoors and will do best with acreage. If you do not have enough time to devote to this breed, this is not the right breed for you.
Temperament
The Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent and hard-working dog and will be at its best as long as it gets enough physical exercise. These dogs are easy to train and respond well to calm, firm and consistent training. These dogs are brave, reliable, bold and vigorous and love to be around their owners. They can be dominant with meek owners. They are tremendous guards and their large size only adds to it. Well-socialized and well-trained dogs love everyone and can be sweet-tempered goofballs.
