The Giant Schnauzer is one breed that feels the need for speed. These versatile dogs crave adrenaline and have an undeniable herding instinct. They're strong, too! German herders developed the breed to drive cattle; they also pulled produce carts to market.
Today, Giant Schnauzers are valued guard dogs and companions. Some also serve in law enforcement.
Originally from Germany, this large-sized and high-energy breed can grow to between 55-85 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Working breed group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Germany |
| Breed group | Working |
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 82 |
| Family | Livestock dog |
| Date of origin | Middle ages |
| Original function | Cattle herding |
| Today's function | Security |
| Average size of male | Height: 25.5-27.5 Weight: 65-90 |
| Average size of female | Height: 25.5-27.5 Weight: 65-90 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Somewhat affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderate maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A GIANT SCHNAUZER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Steady and reliable, Giant Schnauzers are intelligent, devoted, and very brave. They can also be quite playful and affectionate. Their size and energy level means that they'll do best with supervised children and other dogs. They can be shy or standoffish with strangers and don't usually do well with other pets.
WHAT IS GIANT SCHNAUZER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
These alert and active dogs have an imposing presence. Your Giant Schnauzer will need regular exercise and lots of it. This is an energetic, powerful, and rugged working breed. They make for vigilant, dependable, territorial, and very protective watchdogs.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A GIANT SCHNAUZER?
Giant Schnauzers are very trainable. But like most smart and stubborn dogs, they have something of an independent streak. You'll want to be sure you have a fenced-in space for your furry friend to run in, and preferably a job for this diligent working dog to do — they're great at obedience, agility, and carting work.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO GIANT SCHNAUZERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Giant Schnauzers have wiry and dense medium-length double coats. They shed seasonally, but they don't shed much. Plan for daily brushing and regular clipping and trimming or stripping. Bathe as needed.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO GIANT SCHNAUZERS HAVE?
Giant Schnauzers are a hardy breed. Some may develop eye ailments, hip dysplasia, or autoimmune diseases.
