Facts about Giant Schnauzer Puppies

The breed was created for herding by crossing the Standard Schnauzer, the Great Dane and Bouvier des Flandres. The problem was, it consumed so much food that many farmers could not afford to feed it.

Its other uses included guarding, police work and military work during the World War I. Of course, they also make excellent pets and companion dogs.

Physical Characteristics of Giant Schnauzer Puppies

This is a large and powerful dog that closely resembles the Standard Schnauzer, except it's much larger.

It has a square body with a long head and a strong neck. The head, with bushy eyebrows, large nose ("schnauzer" means "nose" in German) and a beard, has a very distinct look. It also has dark brown eyes and cropped erect or naturally button ears. The tail is usually docked short.

It has a double coat that consists of a harsh outer coat and soft and dense undercoat. The coat comes in solid black or salt and pepper.

Temperament

The Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent and even-tempered dog. It learns fast and can be taught to do many different jobs. It's also extremely loyal and enjoys being next to his owner. If you give him an opportunity, he will follow you wherever you go.

By nature, Giant Schnauzers are very territorial and protective and will fight to protect what's theirs. Guarding comes naturally to them and they can differentiate between first time and frequent visitors. Needless to say, they make excellent guard dogs.

Because it's a very dominant dog, it should be supervised when around other animals, especially another male Schnauzer, or children.

If you have other pets, consider puppy socialization training while your Schnauzer is still young.

Best Owner / Living Conditions

The Giant Schnauzer is an active breed and is not well-suited for an apartment lifestyle.

It needs an experienced and active owner who lives in a suburban home and is willing to establish himself as the "leader of the pack".

Some Giant Schnauzer breeders may interview prospective owners to make sure this is the right breed for them.

Activity and Exercise

Giant Schnauzer puppies and adult dogs need plenty of exercise.

If you like to take long walks, jog or ride a bicycle, you can take your pet along (on-leash, of course). At a minimum, he needs couple of brisk walks every day.

Grooming

Though it doesn't shed a lot, to prevent matting, brush at least once a week with a short wire brush. Clip the hair around eyes and ears and clean the whiskers after each meal.

To keep the coat clean and free of tangles, clip your Giant Schnauzer two to four times per year.

Wash only when necessary and make sure to brush thoroughly when done.

Health Concerns

Like all dog breeds, the Giant Schnauzer is susceptible to complications caused by parasites such as dog ticks, fleas, and puppy worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, and heartworms.

Other common health problems include hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, eye problems, and albinism. Visit dog health problems to learn more about dog diseases and health care.

To reduce the risk of the above and many other health problems, buy only from reputable Giant Schnauzer breeders (visit dog breeders to learn how to identify responsible dog breeders).

No matter how small the risk of health problems is, any puppy may get sick or injured. Many health problems will require an immediate attention from your Vet, but there are many others that will not, and you may handle them on your own.

To save time and money, learn how to diagnose and treat dog health problems that don't require your Vet's attention.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy for Giant Schnauzers is between 11 and 15 years.

Did you ever consider adopting your next pet?

If this is the breed you are interested in, and adoption appeals to you, consider contacting your local Giant Schnauzer rescue. There are thousands of pets waiting for a loving home and, yes, it's possible to adopt a purebred dog.