All Schnauzers were developed in Germany in the 19th century on the farmlands of Wurttemberg and Bavaria. The Giant Schnauzer (known in Germany as Riesenschnauzer) was developed by crossing the standard variety, which was developed first, with the black Great Dane and other herding breeds, for the purpose of herding and guarding. Until the 20th century, Giant Schnauzers were used for these agricultural functions, until their propensity for police and military training was noticed and used during World War I.

“Consistent training is the key to getting the most out of this large breed of dog – set down boundaries and stick to them when challenged.” – fantasticpets, Giant Schnauzer Squidoo Lens

As the name suggests, Giant Schnauzers look like larger versions of the standard Schnauzer, weighing between 70 and 100 pounds and standing 23.5 to 27.5 inches tall. Bred for farm work, these are sturdy, hard-working dogs with a squarely proportioned build, an erect, rectangular head and muzzle as wide as the top of the head. The ears are raised and either cropped (although this is less becomming less common and, in some countries, illegal) or folding naturally into a V-shape. Their tail is high and, in some countries, docked, although again this is now less popular and illegal in some territories. They are double-coated with a soft undercoat and a wiry, hard, long outer coat which is either salt and pepper or all black in colour. The average lifespan is 9 to 12 years.

Grooming Giant Schnauzers can be time consuming – show dogs of the breed need to be hand stripped approximately once a month, which is best done by a professional groomer. For companion dogs, trimming with clippers regularly is sufficient. Bred to work hard, this breed needs vigorous daily exercise including long, brisk walks and a fast game, jog or agility training session. Giant Schnauzers also have tremendous pulling strength and can get good exercise by pulling a wagon.

Training is crucial to teach this large, rambunctious dog the rules and its place in the household; advanced training is recommended to keep its bright mind busy and its assertive impulses in check. Puppies should be socialized well with lots of different types of people and pets in order to suppress their watchdog instincts. Giant Schnauzers can be dog-aggressive, so early socialization is especially important, as is positive, fear-free and challenging training.

Giants are loyal and devoted pets, although young dogs of the breed have to be taught their limits when it comes to playing with children and smaller pets. Older children find great companions in this breed.

As they are a large breed, Giant Schnauzers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia along with eye disorders, hypothyroidism and seizure disorders. Toe cancer is also relatively prominent in the breed so owners should be sure to check their dog’s feet regularly.

Other Giant Schanuzer Websites:

Our Giant Schnauzer Squidoo Lens is dedicated to the breed, looking at things from the point of view of your everyday dog owner.

Valley of the Sun Giant Schnauzer Rescue – Some great images, breed information, and details on adopting Giant Schanuzers.

Barnsdale Giant Schanuzers – A visit to the photo gallery is definitely recommended here.

Find Giant Schnauzer- Dogs for Adoption at Adopt-a-Pet.com