Really like the Scottish Terrier and Schnauzers, but you prefer larger dogs? No worries, the Giant Schnauzer is most definitely the breed to consider.
Origin
They were back then considered to be a rough-coated version of the German Pinscher, and their hair was thought to help them withstand the harsh German winters and bites from vermin.
These dogs were originally used as farm watchdogs for guarding property and driving animals to market, while by the turn of the 20th century, the Giant Schnauzer was being used as a watchdog at factories, breweries, butcheries, and stockyards throughout Bavaria. However, the Giant Schnauzer is now used mainly as a police dog. Let’s see why.
Description
Male dogs stand from 25.5 to 27.5 inches (65 to 70 cm) at the withers, and females can go up to 25.5 inches (65 cm). They are square in shape and resemble a larger version of the Standard Schnauzer. The coat is dense, wiry, weather resistant and always black.
These obedient and intelligent pooches are quite agile, but primarily quiet. Due to its breeding, the Giant Schnauzer is inherently suspicious of strangers and can be very territorial, which makes the breed an excellent guard dog.
Pros
- Intelligent
- Great watchdog
- Obedient
- Friendly
- trainable
Cons
- Hip and elbow dysplasia are common
- Require grooming
- Prone to central diabetes insipidus
Should I adopt/buy a Giant Schnauzer?
If you are looking for a trainable, obedient, territorial, but quiet and calm watchdog, Giant Schnauzer is the right Schnauzer for you.