Giant Schnauzer Characteristics

The giant schnauzer, or riesenschnauzer, comes from Germany, where people used it as a cattle herding and guard dog. There are three distinct schnauzer breeds: the miniature schnauzer, the standard or medium-sized schnauzer and the giant schnauzer. The giant schnauzer was created by crossing the standard schnauzer with larger dogs, specifically the Bouvier des Flandres and the great Dane. Giant schnauzers have certain physical and behavioral characteristics that make them appealing to pet owners.

  1. Physical Appearance

    • Male giant schnauzers range from 25 ½ to 27 ½ inches tall, while females are 23 ½ to 25 ½ inches tall. Giant schnauzers look like larger versions of the standard schnauzer and have a powerful, well-muscled and robust build. Their coats are wiry and harsh and usually solid black. The dogs can also have banded white with black hairs. Giant schnauzers are distinguished by their rectangular heads that feature bushy eyebrows and beards.

    Temperament and Family

    • The giant schnauzer is an independent dog that does not need the companionship of another dog. The dog is devoted to its human family and can play well with adolescent or teenage children. If there are children in the family, the giant schnauzer will watch over them in a protective and loving manner. The dogs are known for their high-energy drive, endurance, courage and keen intelligence. They may be suspicious of strangers.

    Health

    • Giant schnauzers can live for 12 to 15 years. Even as they grow older, they retain their vitality and strength. The dogs require vigorous amounts of exercise at least two times a day to expend their energy. You can take a giant schnauzer with you for a run, long walk, swim, hike or bike ride. The animals are highly prone to cancer, especially toe cancer. Epilepsy and hip dysplasia are common in this dog breed, and giant schnauzers are at an increased risk of getting the potentially deadly canine bloat. Canine bloat is when gases build up and expand the stomach so much that blood circulation to and from the heart is impeded.

    Feeding

    • A healthy diet will mean a healthy coat and body for your dog. Giant schnauzers benefit from fresh food diets that consist of raw meats and fresh vegetables. Many dog owners feed their adult dogs commercial dog food, but it is preferable to supplement this diet with some fresh meats and vegetables. Veterinarians or dog breeders can recommend specific diets and supplements that will keep giant schnauzers in good health.