Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is categorized in the family groups: Livestock Dog, Schnauzer, and the Herding group. This breed originally came from Germany, out of the the lands of Wurrtemburg and Bavaria.
Cattlemen were quite fond of the smaller standard-sized Schnauzer and thus wanted to breed a larger-sized version of the dog for specific jobs. They needed a bigger dog to drive cattle and so the Schnauzer was mixed with larger, smooth coated cattle driving dogs. The attempt was done to create a wire haired drover.
Although the exact breed crosses are not documented and cannot be accounted for first-hand, theorists have come to the conclusion that other dogs were added to the mix. These dogs are said to have been the black Poodle, Wolf Spitz, Wirehaired Pinscher, the Bouvier des Flandres, and even the Great Dane.
The end result was a dog referred to as the “Munchener”. It was smart, capable of handling cattle, and sported a weather resistant coat. In time, the breed became more and more popular and were used as stockyard dogs, guard dogs, butcher dogs, and brewery dogs.
Eventually the name was changed to the “Giant Schnauzer” and the breed was used as police dogs around the time of World War I. They excelled rapidly as a service dog but still remained unpopular around the world except for Germany.
Personality
As the name implies, the Giant Schnauzer is just that, a giant, therefore, it may be a bit too rambunctious and rough for small children. But their playful character and protective loyalty to its family also makes this breed an excellent house dog. They may be a bit reserved with strangers and aggressive towards other dogs, but this is what makes them a top-rated watchdog with the ability to defend its family through force if needed.
Taking Care Of Your Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzers need daily physical exercise but has more fun playing vigorous dog games. Long walks and hikes through the hills are a perfect activity to match this breed's active lifestyle.
Giant Schnauzer dogs can live outdoors during cold temperatures but prefer to sleep inside with its family. Grooming requirements are 2 - 3 thorough brushings his each week to keep its wiry coat clean. Professional shaping, clipping, and scissoring are also recommended.
Health Information
The average lifespan for a healthy Giant Schnauzer is between 10 and 13 years. A very healthy dog breed, it has only 1 major health concern; CHD. Minor health issues include OCD, hypothyroidism, and gastric torsion.
History
The Giant Schnauzer was developed by people in Bavaria and Württemburg during the Medieval Period. They desired to have a bigger and stronger Schnauzer for herding and farming. Schnauze is a German word for muzzle. The Giant Schnauzer was originated from mating the Bouvier des Flandres, Great Dane, Standard Schnauzer, Standard Poodle, and Wolf Spitz.
At first this breed was call the Munchener. It was a great drover and guard dog. In 1492, Durer painted this breed. It was later used as a police dog. It came to the U.S.A. in the 1920's. The AKC gave this breed recognition in 1930. The United States Army utilized the Giant Schnauzer during World War II.
General Looks
It is a very large and strong dog. The eyebrows are bushy; it has whiskers and a beard. It is usually as tall as it is long. This makes it look square-like in build. The nose is black and the eyes are brown.
Is This Your Breed?
The coat requires brushing each week and should be stripped or clipped from four to six times per year.
It is a low shedding breed. The Giant Schnauzer requires plenty of exercise like a walk each day and playing in the yard.
Coat
The coat is rough, wiry, and thick.
Color
The colors are Chestnut red, black, and tricolor.
Locomotion
At a trot the gait is single track. The front reach is good and the hind quarters drive.
Personality
This breed does well with kids that are well behaved. It is a wonderful pet with correct training. It is an aggressive canine to other dogs. It needs to be socialized as a puppy meaning all encompassing socialization involving people and other dogs. Puppies need plenty of exercise so they aren't restive.
These dogs are loyal, protective, lively, calm, and intelligent. They are reticent with strangers. And usually behave well around other pets. They are easy to train.
Giant Schnauzer video:
Tags: family, breed, dog, giant schnauzer breed, bouvier des flandres, wolf spitz
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