Giant Schnauzer Overview

The Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent, trainable watchdog that can excel in family life under the right circumstances. Its name is apt, weighing in between 70-90 lbs. Because of this, it will not be happy in an apartment or town home. It needs a big yard and plenty of room to stretch its legs. 

Exercise is a high requirement, so those seeking a sedate companion should look somewhere else. Long walks or robust games on a daily basis are key to a harmonious relationship. 

Weekly brushings are needed to keep its rough coat clean, and shaping is needed twice per year. The deal-breaker for the Giant Schnauzer is no different than any other large dog. It is a great dog in the right family. But even in the most ideal cases, the breed may simply be too large for certain households.

Giant Schnauzer History

Dating back to the Middle Ages, the Giant Schnauzer has a history as a strong-willed German dog. 

Captivated by the effectiveness of the Standard Schnauzer; German herders set out to create a larger version of the breed that would be effective at driving cattle. Over time, the Standard was bred with various large dogs with smooth coats, such as the Great Dane and the Wirehaired Pinscher. In the end, breeders were met with a robust, weatherproof herder that was soon used in a variety of tasks. 

While some drove cattle, the majority of the breed was actually used to guard stock yards, breweries, and farms. Eventually, it was suggested that the breed be used as a police dog. They were skilled at the job, but were never utilized outside of Germany. Although very popular in their native land, the Giant Schnauzer has maintained a mild celebrity in the U.S.

Giant Schnauzer Character

Giant Schnauzers are infinitely energetic and fun-loving animals. They are also bold and loyal protectors. 

Around strangers, Giants tend to be reserved and protective, watching from the sidelines for anything fishy. They do not do well with other dogs, as they tend to be aggressive and dominant. 

They are gentle companions with children, yet they may be too rowdy with toddlers. 

Giant Schnauzers are easy enough to train, as they are eager to please an owner who is a proven leader. If dominance is not established, this dog might try to take control of the pack. If not exercised properly, this dog will do what any other working dog does: get bored and become destructive. This can be avoided, however, if their owner engages in the right amount of activity with the dog. 

Giant Schnauzers are great dogs to begin with. But only in the right hands can they truly excel in family life. These dogs are better suited for active owners who are not afraid to establish strong leadership.

Giant Schnauzer Care

The Giant Schnauzer requires weekly brushing and combing to keep the under coat free of mats and tangles. They need to be professionally clipped all-over four times per year. The hair around the eyes and ears must be kept trimmed and their whiskers cleaned after meals. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done when necessary. This breed is prone to cancer, bloat, hip dysplasia, and epilepsy.

Giant Schnauzer Training

Early intense socialization and obedience are essential for the Giant Schnauzer. They are a dominant breed and require an experienced and dominant owner who will let them know who the boss is. They are easily housebroken and trained. The Giant Schnauzer responds to respect, consistency, firmness, fairness, positive reinforcement, and reward. They excel in agility, obedience, schutzhound, and are often used as therapy and police dogs.

Giant Schnauzer Health

Common Health Issues for the Giant Schnauzer:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Giant Schnauzer:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Giant Schnauzer Resources