This gentle giant loves nothing more than snuggling by their family’s side and they shed no hair.

73-giant-schnauzer

Giant Schnauzers do not take to strangers easily and will scare off the bravest of thieves with their relentless loud bark. While they make excellent watchdogs, they are a devoted, not aggressive and a non-imposing breed whose favourite hobby is to be glued to their loved ones.

Historically, Giant Schnauzers were bred as a cattle herder, but now they make wonderful family dogs. Their gentle nature will warm any heart. They are very intelligent and can be easily obedience-trained. They are agile and can quickly learn new tricks.

Fun fact: Loosely translated, the Giant Schnauzer’s name

is Giant Herculean Monster with Moustache.

Keep them busy or you’ll have a very disobedient Schnauzer at hand – when bored, they go into destruct mode. They need abundant mental and physical stimulation. While they are reserved with strangers, they are playful and trustworthy with children who are old enough to not get intimidated by a Schnauzer’s size and liveliness. Socialise them early and be firm, confident and consistent while laying down rules.

Giant Schnauzers need ample, vigorous exercise – brisk long walks, a jog, lots of ‘fetch’, a swim, or all of these. A lack of exercise and you’ll have a destructive, hyperactive pet. They have a strong hunting instinct, so make sure they are on a leash when out.

Their coat (in black or salt and pepper) is dense and wiry, but easy to maintain. Groom your Giant Schnauzer by combing or brushing their coat weekly. Trim around their eyes and ears and clean their whiskers after meals to wipe off drool or food particles. Giant Schnauzers are hypoallergenic, do not give off body odour and shed little to no hair.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

They are a giant-sized breed weighing between 41-45kgs, with a height between 60-70cms.

Space

A yard is ideal, due to their active nature.  

Energy Levels

The equivalent of a marathon runner, they just go and go and go. Daily runs and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.

Difficulty of Training

They are intelligent and eager to please, but stubborn. Consistent training is the key.

Family Suitability

Giant Schnauzers are great family pets, loyal companions and excellent watchdogs.

 Compatibility with other Pets

They love meeting new pets and will quickly befriend cats or other dogs if they are brought up together.

Need for Company

They have a moderate need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

Yes

Coat and Grooming Needs

This breed requires moderate maintenance. They have a short, medium coat, which tends to be salt and pepper coloured, or black with silver or white. Brush them weekly and trim regularly.

 Shedding

They shed little.

Tendency to Bark

They have a moderate tendency to bark, so expect some conversation.

Similar Pets You May Like

Belgian Malinois

Bearded Collie

Australian Shepherd