Origin

A Schnauzer type dog has been represented in art and sculptures as early as the 1400’s. The Giant Schnauzer evolved from the Standard Schnauzer. It originates from southern Germany and the nearby regions of Switzerland and France. Originally it was used as a cattle herder in the 15th century until the railroads were developed. In the 19th century the Giants became popular in the towns as guard dogs. During the world wars this dog was used for police and war work, resulting in the breed being nearly wiped out. They were first shown in 1909 and first appeared in America at this time. They have never really been popular dogs but they have many endearing qualities.

Description

 

The Giant Schnauzer is a large sized dog that appears almost square. The breed is sturdy and muscular with an alert outlook. Hair on the eyebrows, moustache and legs is longer than elsewhere, giving them a very distinctive appearance. The Giant has a rectangular head and the body length equals the height at the withers.

Size	Giant
Colour	They can be salt and pepper, black with silver markings, solid black or white in colour. White is not a common colour and is rarely seen in the show ring.
Coat Length	Short Medium
Weight/Height Range	Dogs should measure between 65-70cms at the withers and weigh 45.5kgs. Bitches should measure between 60-65cms and weigh 41kgs.
Ailments	There have been concerns over the temperament and hip dysplasia in the Giant Schnauzer. These have been reduced through responsible breeding and screening.
Breed Classification	The Giant Schnauzer is a member of the working group in Britain and the United States, but in the utility group in Australia. They were originally used for cattle herding; today they are companion dogs. In Europe they are used for police work and in security.

---

Personality

 

Giants are lively, active dogs and they can be stubborn and wilful and need a firm hand when training. They can become one man or one family dogs and may become very territorial. They do get on well with other dogs, household pets and children. They are ideally suited to the active family. They are quick to alert the family of any strangers approaching their territory, as they are excellent guard dogs. They should be socialised and training started at an early age. They are not the ideal dogs for the novice owner.

 

Intelligence	The Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent dog that is easily trained, although it does need consistent training, as they can be quite stubborn. As puppies they do require lots of socialisation and training. They are used widely in Europe for police and security work.
Energy	High
Suitability for Children	High
Tendency to Bark	Medium
Overall Exercise Requirement	Giant Schnauzers enjoy exercise and play, however they can play roughly so they should be closely supervised in case the game gets too rough. They do like to be kept active and love the outdoors.
Suitability as a Guard Dog	High
Ease of Transportation	Medium
Level of Aggression	Low
Other Animal Compatibility	High

---

Grooming

 

The coat of the Giant is harsh, wiry and short with a dense undercoat. All over grooming is required at least twice a week. Hand stripping is a must for the show ring but clipping is straightforward and easy for the smart family pet.

Grooming Requirements	More than once a week
Amount of Hair Shed	None

---

Discover Other Dog Breeds