Giant Schnauzer

Life expectancy

12 years

Age adult

32 months

Height (Shoulder height)

65 cm

Weight

41 kg

Coat texture

medium length / coarse-haired / undercoat / stiff/rigid / wiry / beard and bushy eyebrows

Coat color

black, peppersalt (grey, off white)

Common illnesses

dysplasia of the hip joint / cancer/ predisposition to tumor / factor VII deficiency / malignant hyperthermia / Imerslund-Gräsbeck syndrome / hyperuricosuria/hyperuricemia (HUU) / infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy

Food expenses per month in €

about € 77

Suitable for children

Rather not

Needs a garden

Rather not

Hunting motivated / needs alternative employment

Rather yes

First dog suitable

Rather yes

Allergy friendly

Rather yes

Athletic

Very atletic

Attention

Needs much attention

Care and grooming

Low grooming effort

Eager to learn

High

Exercise

Needs a lot of exercise

Nature

sensitive / quick and eager to learn / balanced / vivacious / alert / clingy / intelligent / loyal / territorial / confident

Bred for

watchdog / shepherd dog / guard carriages

Common illnesses

dysplasia of the hip joint / cancer/ predisposition to tumor / factor VII deficiency / malignant hyperthermia / Imerslund-Gräsbeck syndrome / hyperuricosuria/hyperuricemia (HUU) / infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy

Dog type according to FCI

pinscher and schnauzer - molossoid - swiss mountain and cattledogs

FCI description

Section 1 Pinscher and Schnauzer. These were once farm dogs that kept house and stables free of mice and rats. They also protected against intruders and accompanied the carts. They are often independent, suspicious of strangers and vigilant.

Section 2 Molossoids. These great dane-like dogs were used in the war as fighting dogs and in the Middle Ages for big game hunting. Later for guarding large estates. They are big, defensive dogs who protect and defend their family. They need a loving education early on and must not be armed in any way, otherwise the strong animals get out of control. Also the mountain dogs were typical house and yard dogs which are ready to defend but little aggressive. With same-sex conspecific, they get along however usually less well because of its distinctive precinct-behavior.

Section 3 Swiss Mountain Dog. These worked as herd prodection dogs or guard dogs in alpine valleys or pulled milk carts. They are independent, territorial and guarded house, yard and livestock.

Many dogs from this group grow very big, have a strong personality and need patient training. They can become great partners for life if you have enough space and time. Others are small, but still stubborn and want to be challenged so that their activity and vigilance can be lived out and not used against others.

Short description

The Giant Schnauzer is a loving, loyal and alert family-dog with an impressive appearance. If he gets enough physical and mental exercise he has a very balanced, cuddly and indulgent nature. Nevertheless, a soft but firm training is recommended, as he can be very stubborn.

This information is indicative and adheres to the breed standard. Each animal is an individual and has a personal character, as well as its own needs. Thus, a breed is not a guarantee of certain behaviors, etc.