According to the Dog Bible, “The giant schnauzer originated in the Wurttemberg and Bavaria regions of Germany, where cattlemen wanted a larger version of the standard schnauzer to use for driving cattle. It was created by breeding standard schnauzers with Great Danes, rough-haired sheepdogs, and Bouvier des Flandres.”
Breed Standard for the Giant Schnauzer
The American Kennel Club (AKC) expects the Giant Schnauzer to be “robust, strongly built, nearly square in proportion of body length to height at withers, active, sturdy, and well muscled.” A dense and wiry and hard coat with a soft undercoat is preferred. Despite the long hair, they are classified as hypoallergenic, a good thing for allergy and asthma sufferers. Technically not a “giant” breed, the Giant Schnauzer male stands 25 ½ to 27 ½ inches, females 23 ½ to 25 ½ inches.
Giant Schnauzer Temperament
This is a breed that seems to enjoy life. They are bold and courageous when required yet gentle with children, making for an excellent choice for a family dog. A firm hand for training is good, but they tend to be sensitive, so loud vocals and aggressiveness can be damaging.
During a recent phone conversation, Mark Thompson, a trainer and behaviorist with decades of experience, had these observations: “The Giant Schnauzer is stoic and doesn’t respond well to force. I love working with them. They need to be mentally stimulated, though, or they will destroy the house.” This would indicate that the Giant is a well-rounded sort of character that benefits from attention.
Potential Health Problems of the Giant Schnauzer
This breed is generally healthy when taken care of, but some unwanted conditions may pop up. Hypothyroidism and Crohn’s disease can occur. Hip dysplasia and epileptic seizures are also possibilities. The breed has been known to experience eye problems as well.
Schutzhund and the Working Giant Schnuazer
Schutzhund is a sport (a theory, actually) that developed in Germany. The term Schutzhund actually means “protection dog” in German. The sport has taken on a world wide appeal. In their landmark text, Schutzhund: Theory and Training Methods, Susan Barwig and Stewart Hilliard list the Giant Schnauzer as one of the breeds that excels in this sport.
The Giant Schnauzer can be a suitable companion for the family, law enforcement or military personnel, or for the individual Schutzhund enthusiast. The breed is adaptable and focused, and in proper hands will bring much satisfaction.
Sources:
American Kennel Club Official Website
Barwig, Susan, and Hilliard, Stewart. Schutzhund: Theory and Training Methods. New York: Howell Book House, 1991.
Dog Bible: The Definitive Source for All Things Dog. Ed. Kristin Mehus-Roe. Irivne: Bowtie Press, 2005.
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