| Description: For dogs bred to guard beer bars and butcher shops, Giant Schnauzers are pretty serious-minded. Schnauzers are thoughtful, alert, vigilant, sober, loyal, thoughtful, not easily bribed, eager to learn and good-natured.
These dogs have considerable stamina and are full of character. Giant Schnauzers enjoy and need consistent, fair and multifaceted training.
Other Names: Riesenschnauzer
Height: 23.5 - 27.5 inches
Weight: 70 - 77 lbs.
Colors: Pure black, or pepper and salt.
Coat: Harsh, hard and wiry.
Temperament: Loyal, protective
With Children: Yes, as long as he is socialized to children.
With Pets: Yes, usually gets along with other dogs and pets.
Special Skills: Watch-dog, guard-dog and family pet
Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Very High
Care and Exercise: Brush the wiry coat daily with a short wire brush to prevent matting. His coat should be stripped to prevent it from becoming soft and woolly. Pluck the coat twice a year, trim around the eyes and ears. Clean whiskers after meals. Being an energetic dog he requires daily exercise of a long, brisk walk and off the leash play sessions.
Training: Schnauzers enjoy mental and physical activity and are responsive and easily trainable, but will become bored with repetitive exercises. Keep in mind that he has his own ideas and will not follow every command. Known to do well in various sporting activities, especially defense dog trials.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Medium/Low, Problem Solving - Very High.
Activity: High
Living Environment: A home with a fenced yard is essential as he is an active breed. To be an owner of a Giant Schnauzer you should be strong confident, and patient.
Health Issues: Hip dysplasia eye diseases and orthopedic problems.
Life Span: 12 - 15 Years
Litter Size: 5 - 8
Country of Origin: Germany
History: Originating from an area near Munich, Germany, he was first known as the Riesenschnauzer. It is believed that he was crossed with smooth-coated drover dogs, rough-coated shepherds, Great Danes and the Bouvier des Flandres. Used to work cattle the Giant Schnauzer almost became extinct. After the First World War he was primarily used as a guard dog. German fanciers have worked hard to secure the popularity of this breed.
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