The Giant Schnauzer Community

The Giant Schnauzer is the largest of the three Schnauzer varieties and one of Germany's most significant working breed developments, a powerful, highly intelligent and formidable dog used extensively in police, military and security work throughout Europe and beyond. Developed in Bavaria in the nineteenth century originally as a cattle and drover's dog, the Giant Schnauzer was subsequently refined as a working guard dog and has become recognised worldwide as one of the most capable working breeds in existence. Registered by the Kennel Club in the Working Group, it is a breed that commands respect and requires experienced ownership. The Giant Schnauzer is a large, powerfully built dog with the characteristic Schnauzer appearance taken to its most substantial expression: a rectangular, well-muscled build, the wiry double coat with harsh outer coat and soft undercoat, the characteristic beard and eyebrows that give the Schnauzer group their distinctive expression, and the overall impression of strength and capability. The coat comes in pure black or salt and pepper. Adult males typically stand 65 to 70 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh 35 to 47 kilograms. The character is that of a serious, dominant working dog. The Giant Schnauzer is highly intelligent, intensely loyal to its own family, naturally protective and assertive in a way that demands equally confident and experienced leadership. It is not an aggressive breed by nature but it is dominant, capable and confident in its own abilities - a combination that can be problematic in the hands of owners who cannot provide clear, consistent direction from day one. The breed needs significant daily activity - two hours of vigorous exercise is the minimum and it should include purposeful mental work as well as physical challenge. Giant Schnauzers excel in protection sport, obedience, tracking and any working activity that engages their considerable intelligence and drive. They can be genuinely difficult when under-stimulated. Socialisation must begin early and be conducted thoroughly. The breed's natural reserve and protectiveness with strangers, combined with its potential for same-sex dog aggression, require careful management. Hip dysplasia and cardiac conditions are the primary health concerns and both parents should be tested. Purchase prices from KC-registered, health-tested breeders range from £1,000 to £2,500. Monthly running costs average £150 to £240. The Giant Schnauzer Club UK is the primary resource for breed information, health testing, responsible breeders and rescue contact. The breed's combination of physical power, intelligence and working capability places it firmly in the category of breeds requiring the highest level of owner experience and commitment.