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Giant Schnauzer

Smart, stubborn, and an independent thinker, Giant Schnauzer guard dog will play with family and defend them and their home from any threats.

Overall Status

Height 23.5 to 27.5 inches
Temperament Loyal, Alert, Trainable
Weight 65 to 90 pounds
Life Expectancy 10 to 12 years
Coat Color Black, Gray
Barking Level Medium

Quick Factors

Playfulness
Dog Friendly
Exercise Need
Grooming Needs
Strangers Friendly
Family Affectionate
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Daily Care

Grooming Tips Exercise Tips Feeding Tips Health Tips Trainability

The Giant Schnauzer’s distinctive look — eyebrows, thick beard, clipped body — doesn’t come naturally. Regular grooming is essential, including brushing, bathing, haircut, nail trim, and ear cleaning. Expect to groom (do it yourself or hire a professional groomer) your dog every six to eight weeks, especially if you wish to keep the coat trimmed short and those eyebrows distinct. Regular brushing every week between stylings will keep the breed’s double coat (outer coat is wiry and hard, and the soft undercoat is dense) in good condition.

The owner should be prepared to spend time maintaining the coat or plan to have the dog periodically groomed by the breeder or someone whom the breeder recommends. The Giant’s ears should be checked regularly for signs ofinfection, and theteethshould be brushed often, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs.

History

The Giant Schnauzer is a separate breed from the Miniature and Standard. Their country of origin is Germany. Breeds were developed for specific work in the 1600's; this breed was developed to be used as drovers of sheep and cattle and as a guard dog. Its coat was also influenced by weather and living conditions.

By the beginning of the 20th century, the Giant Schnauzer wasn’t used much for driving cattle, but he still found work at butcher shops, stockyards, and breweries. The dogs were trained for police work, and it is an occupation they have taken to ever since, more often in Europe than the United States.

The Giant Schnauzer was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930. Today he ranks 94th among the breeds registered by the AKC.

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