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The Giant Schnauzer
The German word “schnauze” means muzzle or snout. Likely originating in the south countryside of Bavaria and Wurrtemburg, the giant schnauzer was created by cattlemen who were impressed by the smaller standard schnauzer. They produced a larger breed which they could use to drive cattle. Although it isn’t documented, the cattlemen probably crossed the standard schnauzer with larger cattle-driving dogs which had smoother coats to try to create a wire-haired herder. At some later point, crosses likely occurred with the Great Dane, Bouvier des Flandres and rough-coated sheepdogs as well as with such breeds as the black poodle, wolf spitz and wirehaired pinscher. The finished product produced an agile deep-chested dog with a huge heart. That's what makes up a true working dog. In the end, the giant schnauzer, then known as the Michener, had a weather-resistant coat and was able to handle cattle. Eventually, the giant schnauzer gained popularity as a stockyard dog, a butcher’s dog, and a brewery guard dog. The Giant has a history as a noble cattle dog and sheep drover. It is a protector that would risk its life for you. When shepherds drove their herds through Bavaria, Giant Schnauzers were soon recognized as guard dogs by shopkeepers.
This breed gained more exposure right before World War I, when it began being trained as a police dog and messenger, but despite their adept ability as such, they only gained popularity in this kind of work in Germany. Only recently has this dog become more and more popular as a pet.
The first Giants were imported to the United States in the early 1920s and by the 30s; some of the best German breeding stock was in the hands of Americans. Giants were used by the U.S. Army in World War Two. Today, the Giant although rare in the U.S. and Canada, is gaining in popularity.
Once seen, the Giant Schnauzer is seldom forgotten. Its appearance and grace speaks for itself. Giant Schnauzers are being used currently in Canada and the U.S. for rescue work, police work, guard dogs, and at airports for detection of illegal and or dangerous substances.
In the show ring you will notice the Giant Schnauzer in the “working group” of the American Kennel Club.
The Giant Schnauzer should resemble a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer; on the whole it should be a bold and valiant figure of a dog. It is robust, strongly built, nearly square in proportion of body length to height at the withers, active, sturdy, and well muscled. Its temperament combines spirit and alertness with intelligence and devotion.
The Giant Schnauzer is composed, watchful, courageous, easily trained, deeply loyal to family, playful, amiable in repose, and a commanding figure when aroused. The sound, reliable temperament, rugged build, and dense weather-resistant wiry coat make for one of the most useful, powerful, and enduring working breeds.
The Giant Schnauzer male will grow to be 25½ to 27½ inches, and the female will mature to be of 23½ to 25½ inches. Size alone should never take precedence over type, balance, soundness, and temperament of your dog.
Overall, the Giant Schnauzer may be right for you if you want a dog that: Is large and strong, yet also lithe and elegant. Contains a wiry coat that has minimal if any shedding, and a whiskery face with a wise expression. Loves to play, and thrives on vigorous athletic activities. Looks clever, so makes an effective deterrent and keen watchdog. Is versatile -- when well-trained, can learn and do most anything.
The Giant Schnauzer is a highly intelligent breed that requires training and socialization. They are bold and need an equally dominant influence in their life. They thrive on learning new tasks, and enjoy praise and attention along with much love and affection. This can make training them a lot of fun. Giants tend to bond specifically with one person, so it is very important that everyone takes a hand in training and sharing commands with them. Even with that they have tendencies to favor one member a bit more. The Giant Schnauzer is a breed that by nature is territorial and protective. They are capable of doing many tasks. They learn quickly but are not typically the type of dog that is a people pleaser. They have a lot of individual personality of their own. They are very good at reading body language, they can access people quickly. Keeping the Giant Schnauzer well socialized through many things; dog parks, taking them on trips, introducing them to others and playing with other dogs will help aid in giving them a well rounded personality. Even with all this socialization you may do with them, they will still continue to provide protection to their home and family should the need arise.
Raising Your Giant
Hierarchy is very important to their social structure with people, family members and other dogs. They need to learn their place in a family. Family members are above the giant. Give your giant rules, be firm and consistent and they will be a wonderful companion. You should always remember when raising a giant puppy that while it is cute and small in the beginning it will be large very soon. It could out weight you, and its momentum can be quite a force. Treat a pup just as you would an adult; give the same rules and they will love you for it. They adore the good firm owners and respect that a great deal.It is vital to teach your giant "house" rules, control commands, and where their place is in your family. If you are not clear with these principles early in your giant's development, you can expect your home will soon be run by this 4 legged master. With all that said they are absolutely the perfect breed for us. We could not imagine home without one or two. It is why many people who have them are Giant owners for the rest of their lives.
