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 The breed was created by crossing the medium-sized Standard schnauzer with black Great Danes, Bouvier des Flandres (Belgian cattle dog), German Pinscher and local cattle dog commonly found on Bavarian farms in Southern Germany. The Giant Schnauzer is a powerful, hardy, athletic, bold and good-natured dog that has always been popular as a good family companion. His imposing looks and high trainability made him a valued member of canine units of police departments. During the war, the Giant Schnauzer was used as a Red Cross aid and for carrying dispatches.
The Giants take their protection duties very seriously and are very popular as personal protection dogs. They will not retreat when threatened and make excellent watchdogs. Prospective Giant owners should bear in mind that this is primarily a working breed that needs lots of exercise, various activities and firm handling.
Giant Schnauzer Breed Outline
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FCI Official Name: | Giant Schnauzer |
| AKC Name: | Giant Schnauzer |
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Other Names: | Riesenschnauzer, Giant |
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Country of Origin: | Germany |
| FCI Classification: |
Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid breeds - Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs and other breeds. Section 1: Pinscher and Schnauzer type (with working trial) |
| Utilization: |
Utility and Companion Dog |
| AKC Classification: |
Working Group |
| Personality: | Active, fearless, protective, loyal and dependable. |
| Size: | Large |
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Height: | 23.5-27.5 inches |
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Colors: |
The colors range from light or dark silver-gray to black. Individual hairs may have light and dark areas which creates the "salt and pepper" or brindle color effects. |
| Average Litter Size: | 6 |
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Life Span: | 9-12 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
The Giant Schnauzer's harsh and wiry coat needs regular attention and visits to grooming salons if you want him to look like a Schnauzer. The coat of show dogs should be hand-stripped to maintain correct pattern and texture. |
| Shedding: | None |
| Social skills: |
The Giant Schnauzer gets along with other household animals. |
| Suitability for Children: | Giant Schnauzers are usually gentle with children. But considering their size, small children should never be left unsupervised around these big dogs. |
| Exercise Needs: | The Giants never lack energy. and need at least 90 minutes vigorous daily exercise. They love water. |
| Train Ability: | The Giant Schnauzer is agile, curious, quick and willing to learn. Puppies are relatively easy to housebreak. |
| Health & Behavior Issues: | The Giant Schnauzer is a very healthy breed. Hip dysplasia, PRA (blindness), hypothyroidism (hormonal disfunction) are hereditary disorders most commonly found in this breed. |
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