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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is a large, powerful dog with bushy eyebrows, whiskers and a
beard. He has a harsh, wiry outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat. Ideally, the
dog's height is the same as his length, resulting in a rather square impression.
The strong, arched neck should blend cleanly into the shoulders. The head is about
half as long as the back from the withers to the tail attachment. The muzzle and
top of the head should form parallel planes. The large nose is black. The dark brown
eyes are medium-sized ovals. The teeth should meet in a scissor-like bite. The front
legs are straight and parallel. Dewclaws should be removed on the hind legs and
may be removed on the front legs. The back is short, straight, strong and firm.
The tail is set moderately high and carried high in excitement. It should be docked
to the second or not more than the third joint. Cropping the ears is optional and
they should sit erect. This breed comes in solid black or salt-and-pepper.
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Temperament
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Giants are bold, spirited, intelligent, protective, loyal and loving. They stick
closely with their owners at all times. This dominant breed needs an experienced
owner. They are easy to train and need firm, consistent training with plenty of
rewards. Without the proper training, Giants may bite children and do best with
children over the age of 12. They are exceptional guard dogs and their large size
is a deterrent to trouble. They should be well socialized at a young age. They bond
for life with their owner and have difficulty with new families. You cannot train
a Giant not to bark. It's what they do!
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 26-28" ; Weight: 60-80 lbs.
Female Height: 23-26" ; Weight: 55-75 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is more prone to cancer than other breeds especially toe cancer which
can be fatal. Other major concerns include bloat, epilepsy and hip dysplasia.
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Living Conditions
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Giants should not live in an apartment. They do best with lots of acreage.
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Exercise
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Giants have a huge need for regular and vigorous exercise and may become difficult
to live with if their exercise needs are not met. They love play sessions where
they can run free.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-15 years
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed is easy to groom and only needs to be brushed weekly. Their
undercoat will become matted unless it is combed or brushed weekly. Clip out knots
and check under the coat often. This dog should be clipped all over to an even length
about four times a year. Continual ear care is important. Trim hair around the eyes
and ears with scissors and wipe around the whiskers after meals. This breed has
no doggie odor and sheds little or no hair.
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Origin
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The Giant Schnauzer was developed in southern Germany as a cattle herder from smooth
haired droving dogs, a variety of rough-coated indigenous shepherd dogs and perhaps,
the black Great Dane. He was known as the Munchener Dog at one time, due to the
area of origin near Munich. He was used during the 15th century until the arrival
of the railroads, when the large cattle drive waned. Farmers then lost interest
in feeding these big eaters, so the Giants moved into the towns to become the guardians
and mascots of beer halls and butcher shops during the 19th century. They are recognized
by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Working, UKC Guardian Dog
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