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.
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