Giant Schnauzer
Updated December 1, 2025
The Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent, reliable, and spirited dog that makes a loyal family guardian. Originally bred for driving cattle, they are now more commonly found as companions, police dogs, and participants in canine sports.
Intelligent, Loyal, Territorial, Trainable, Dominant
55-85 pounds
23.5-27.5 inches
12-15 years
Solid Black, Salt and Pepper
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent, reliable, and spirited dog that makes a loyal family guardian. Originally bred for driving cattle, they are now more commonly found as companions, police dogs, and participants in canine sports.
What Makes Giant Schnauzers Special
The Giant Schnauzer is a bold and valiant figure of a dog, exuding intelligence and determination.
They are deeply loyal to their family and possess a commanding presence, making them natural protectors.
While they have a serious working-dog demeanor, they also have a playful side and form strong bonds with their human companions.
Giant Schnauzer History & Origin
The Giant Schnauzer originated in the Bavarian Alps of Germany in the mid-1800s. They were developed by breeding Standard Schnauzers with larger breeds like the Great Dane and Bouvier des Flandres to create a robust dog capable of herding cattle.
Initially used as all-around farm dogs, their primary role was to drive cattle to market.
With the decline of cattle drives, the breed's intelligence and protective nature led to their use as guard dogs for breweries, butcher shops, and factories.
The Giant Schnauzer gained recognition as a police and military dog in Germany during World War I and II.
The breed was first imported to the United States in the 1930s but remained relatively rare until the 1960s.
Giant Schnauzer Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Giant Schnauzer Appearance
The Giant Schnauzer is a large, powerful, and squarely built dog with a striking appearance.
Their most recognizable features are their harsh, wiry coat and their distinct beard and eyebrows.
They have a keen and intelligent expression that reflects their alert nature.
Physical Features
Ears
Medium-sized, V-shaped button ears that are set high on the head.
Eyes
Dark brown, oval-shaped, and of medium size.
Nose
Prominently black and full.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Giant Schnauzer has a medium-length double coat, with a dense, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat.
Coat Color
The two accepted colors are solid black and a salt and pepper pattern.
Tail
The tail is traditionally docked, where legal, and is carried high.
Giant Schnauzer Temperament
Giant Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and loyalty to their families.
They possess a natural protective instinct and can be territorial, making them excellent watchdogs.
While they are highly trainable, their intelligence can sometimes lead to stubbornness if not properly challenged.
They are typically good-natured but can be wary of strangers until properly introduced.
This breed is energetic and requires a good deal of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Giant Schnauzers have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and are generally a healthy breed. However, like all large breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their stock for these issues.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper exercise, and genetic screening of parents can help mitigate these health risks.
How to Care for a Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers are high-energy dogs that require significant commitment to training, exercise, and grooming. They thrive in active households where they have a job to do.
Grooming
The Giant Schnauzer's wiry coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
Professional grooming or stripping is needed every 6-8 weeks to maintain the coat's texture and health.
Their beard and eyebrows should be kept clean and trimmed to prevent food and debris from accumulating.
Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also essential for their overall health.
Training
Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for Giant Schnauzers to ensure they grow into well-behaved companions.
They are intelligent and learn quickly, but require a firm and consistent owner.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best, but they can also have a stubborn streak.
Due to their intelligence, they excel in various dog sports such as obedience, agility, and Schutzhund.
Diet
A high-quality dog food formulated for large, active breeds is recommended.
The daily amount of food should be divided into two meals to reduce the risk of bloat, a condition to which large breeds are prone.
Monitor their weight to prevent obesity, which can put stress on their joints.
Fresh water should always be available.
Exercise
Giant Schnauzers have high energy levels and require at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily.
They enjoy activities like long walks, jogging, swimming, and playing fetch in a securely fenced area.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise to keep them from becoming bored and destructive.
They make excellent companions for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Environment
Giant Schnauzers are best suited for homes with a large, securely fenced yard where they can run and play.
They are not recommended for apartment living due to their size and high energy levels.
This breed thrives in a home where they are part of the family and have a strong bond with their owners.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a spacious, securely fenced yard is necessary.
Climate Adaptability
They tolerate cooler climates well but can be sensitive to high heat.
Apartment Living
Apartment living is not recommended for this breed.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active owners or families who can provide plenty of exercise, training, and attention.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Giant Schnauzers good family dogs?
Giant Schnauzers can be good family dogs for households with older children who know how to interact with a large dog. They are very loyal and protective of their family. However, they are not recommended for homes with small children.
How much do Giant Schnauzers shed?
Giant Schnauzers are considered a low-shedding breed, but their wiry coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
How much exercise do Giant Schnauzers need?
They are a high-energy breed and need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day.
Are Giant Schnauzers easy to train?
They are highly intelligent and trainable, but they require a confident and consistent owner who can provide firm leadership.
Do Giant Schnauzers do well in apartments?
No, their large size and high energy levels make them unsuitable for apartment living.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization with a variety of people, sights, and sounds is essential. Puppy training classes are highly recommended.
Senior Care
As they age, their exercise needs may decrease, but regular, moderate activity is still important. Monitor for joint issues and adjust their diet as needed.
First-Time Owner Tips
Not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their high energy, intelligence, and need for consistent training and leadership.
Looking for a Giant Schnauzer?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.