Giant Schnauzer Dog Breed Profile

by Amanda

AKC Group: Working Group

The Giant Schnauzer is not really a giant. It is but a larger and stronger version of the Standard Schnauzer. This breed is very energetic and has a great temperament. The coat is solid black and they have a wiry weather resistant coat. Originally used as a guard dog, not it can also make a great family dog if properly trained.

History

The Giant Schnauzer originated in the Bavaria and Wurttemberg parts of Germany, both agricultural places that dogs were very popular as farm help. He assisted the shepherd in driving livestock to sell and was utilized as a guard dog by the breweries and butchers. During World War I the dog was highly regarded in Germany for its trainability and intelligence, becoming among the most common breeds used by police officers.

Physical Features

The Giant Schnauzer should look like a bigger and much more powerful type of Standard Schnauzer. It should posses an overall valiant and bold physique. Sturdy, firmly built, almost square in proportion of length of the body to height.

Although normally all black, a little white patch at the breast is allowed; any other patches are disqualifying mistakes. They should also have on top of their head, beard, and eyebrows, the coarse hair the is the Schnauzer Hallmark.

The height of males is 25 to 27 inches and females is 23 to 25 inches.

Personality

Giant Schnauzers are a versatile, intelligent working breed. They'll be happy with sufficient exercise. Bold, brave, loyal and vigorous, they like to be around their owner constantly. They're easy to train reacting best to a consistent, firm, and positive approach. If the Giant Schnauzer is appropriately taught it makes an excellent pet.

Common Health Problems

Giants tend to be more susceptible to cancer than most dogs, particularly toe cancer. They're also at greater possibility of bloat, epilepsy, hip dyslpasia, as well as autoimmune diseases.

Return to: Complete AKC Dog Breed List

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