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Giant Schnauzer

With their bearded faces, Giant Schnauzers have an almost avuncular air, and their very size gives them an authority lacking in small dogs.  Like all schnauzers, this breed had its beginnings in the neighboring Germanic kingdoms of Wurttemberg and Bavaria.  Giant Schnauzers were traditionally used as cattle-herding and driving dogs and--by the first decade of the twentieth century--as watchdogs at German breweries.

Breed Category

Working Dog

Temperament

Strong and quick to learn, these dogs benefit from early obedience training.  They make loyal family pets, although they may be suspicious of strangers or unfamiliar animals.

Appearance

Giant Schnauzers have a square, rugged silhouette and bodies capable of great stamina.  They have harsh, wiry topcoats in shades of gray over a softer undercoat.  The long head is covered in coarse hair narrowing gradually from the ears to the black nose.  Triangular ears fold neatly forward.  The body is stocky and powerful and the high-set tail is usually docked.

Size:    Height at withers 23-27 in

Weight:    55-80 lbs  

Exercise Requirements:    Considerable

Grooming Requirements:    Considerable

Life Expectancy:    12-14 years

Things to Consider

1. This breed is often wary of children.

 

 

 

Source

Information taken from "DOGS: An Owner's Guide"

Writer and Editor: Helen Stillwell

Photo taken from www.akc.org