The dark fur, the stern gaze, and the bushy beard make the Giant Schnauzer unmistakable. These intelligent service dogs from Germany enjoy worldwide popularity. Learn about the reliable Schnauzer in this profile.

History of the Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer belongs to the original carriage dogs that accompanied traveling merchants throughout Central Europe in the Middle Ages. These large representatives of the breed also served, especially in southern Germany, as shepherd and herding dogs. Due to their “intimidating” appearance, coachmen also used them as guard dogs for brewery carts. They were therefore also known as “Bierschnauzer” or “Rußiger Bärenschnauzer” (sooty bear schnauzer). The first exhibition of the breed took place in Munich in 1909. Official recognition followed in 1913.

These reliable dogs served well as military dogs during World War I. Therefore, they were recognized as a service dog breed in 1924. Since then, many authorities have successfully deployed the enduring dog as a police and rescue dog. Today, there are three different sizes of the Schnauzer, each considered its own breed. The standard distinguishes the Giant, Standard, and Miniature Schnauzer. The FCI categorizes the Schnauzer in Group 2 “Pinscher and Schnauzer – Molossoid breeds – Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs” in Section 1.2 “Schnauzer.”

Nature and Character

The Giant Schnauzer is a loyal and affectionate dog with high intelligence. As a conscientious guard dog, he is reserved to distrustful and self-assured towards strangers. However, he is loyal to his owner and protects him and his family with full commitment. These eager-to-learn Schnauzers are easily trained and very resilient. With good training, you’ll have an obedient and empathetic partner for life. These large dogs are extremely affectionate and cuddly within the family. They are child-friendly but too boisterous and strong for small children.

Appearance of the Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer reaches a considerable size with a withers height of 60 to 70 centimeters. His entire appearance is powerful and impressive. The tail is sabre- or sickle-shaped and points upward. The button ears are set high and lie against the cheek. The medium-length topcoat is wiry and hard, while the undercoat is soft. Typically, the fur forms a characteristic beard on the muzzle and bushy eyebrows over the eyes. Most representatives of the breed are solid black. The only other permitted color is pepper and salt.

Dog Food Recommendations

Training the Puppy

Training a Giant Schnauzer puppy is no easy task. These dogs are late bloomers and are not considered fully grown until about 2.5 years old. Therefore, they retain a playful and youthful nature for a long time. Due to their high willingness to perform and learn, you can teach your Schnauzer almost anything. Getting their spirited nature under control is particularly difficult for beginners.

The most important thing is to teach the dogs from puppyhood that there are also periods of rest. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a hyperactive and enduring dog that requires full-time attention. Equally important is good socialization, where the dog learns that not every person outside their “pack” is an enemy. Particularly young males tend to display dominance without early contact with other puppies. Therefore, attending a puppy school is recommended.

Activities with the Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is bursting with energy and can demonstrate impressive endurance. For this reason, professional stimulation is a must for these high-performance dogs. They are traditional service and guard dogs for a reason. Schnauzers have a diverse range of applications and can work as explosive and narcotics detection dogs as well as search and rescue dogs. Some particularly reliable representatives of the breed can even be trained as guide dogs.

If you don’t intend to train your Schnauzer as a service dog, he needs an alternative occupation. He requires a high level of exercise and is up for any athletic activity. Whether it’s as an enduring runner while jogging, alongside a bicycle, or as a sled dog pulling a sled—the possibilities are varied. They can also be enthusiastic about dog sports such as agility, tracking work, or mantrailing.

Health and Care

The wiry coat of the Giant Schnauzer is easy to care for. Since the breed does not shed, your home will largely be free of hair. However, you will need to trim the dog’s coat every few months to remove dead hair. With some practice, you don’t need to go to the dog groomer for this and can do it yourself. You should also trim his long beard and eyebrows if necessary.

Like all large breeds, the Schnauzer is genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia, so you should avoid exerting large efforts during puppyhood. Otherwise, the breed is considered rather robust and low-maintenance. The dogs are not very demanding when it comes to food. Nevertheless, you should naturally focus on a balanced and healthy diet.

Is the Giant Schnauzer Right for Me?

Before getting a representative of the breed, you should make sure that you have enough time for him. The worst thing that can happen to the dog is boredom. Daily physical activity and ideally use as a service dog are important for the Schnauzer. The large, energetic dog is not suitable for a small apartment. Ideally, you should live in the countryside in a house with a large garden. Overall, the Schnauzer is best suited for athletic and creative people who can provide him with plenty of activity and affection.

If you have chosen the breed, you should visit a reputable breeder in your area. They should be a member of the Giant Schnauzer Club of America and have experience in breeding. Also, ask to see the parent animals and get to know your puppy well before purchasing. The price for a healthy and purebred Giant Schnauzer puppy ranges between $950 and $1300.

Product Recommendations

Interesting and Worth Knowing

Do you have a Giant Schnauzer or are you planning to get one? Tell us in the comments what makes him special in your opinion!