The Giant Schnauzer (German Reichschnauzer) is a large, powerful, compact breed of dog. It is one of several Schnauzer breeds.
History: The Giant Schnauzer is thought to have come from crosses between dogs such as the black Great Dane, Bouvier des Flandres and the Standard Schnauzer. The word “Schnauze” means “muzzle” in German. The Giant Schnauzer was first used as a cattle driving dog in Bavaria, then later as a guard dog by the police and military. The Giant Schnauzer excels at schutzhund and also makes a good companion dog.
Appearance: The Giant Schnauzer is a large, powerful, compact dog with bushy eyebrows, whiskers and a beard. The rectangular head is elongated and strong with medium size, dark brown, oval eyes that are deep-set. The ears, set high on the skull, are in balance with the head and can be cropped or uncropped. The muzzle of the giant schnauzer is strong with a blunt edge. The Giant Schnauzer has a harsh, wiry outer coat and dense, soft undercoat. Coat color is either black or pepper-and-salt.
Size: Height - Dogs 26-28 inches (66-71 cm); bitches 23-26 inches (58-66 cm)
Weight - Dogs 60-80 pounds (27-36 kg); bitches 55-75 pounds (25-34 kg)
Temperament: Although it is generally good with children in its own family, the giant schnauzer may prove to be too rambunctious for smaller children. While it loves to play, this breed is quite bold and protective of its family. It is usually reserved with strangers and may exhibit aggressive behavior toward other dogs. The giant schnauzer makes an excellent watchdog because of its impressive bark when it perceives something out of the ordinary.
Health: Giants are more prone to cancer than most breeds, especially toe cancer which kills many Giants annually even if caught early. They are at increased risk of bloat. Epilepsy is all too common in this breed and hip dysplasia is rampant.
Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years
Grooming: The coat of this breed sheds very little and has no odor. The undercoat of the giant schnauzer should be brushed with a short wire brush on a weekly basis to prevent matting. The animal should be clipped all over to an even length at least four times a year and ear care continually is important. A person can easily learn how to do it. Pet dogs are generally clipped, but show dogs may be stripped. Trim around the eyes and ears with a blunt-nosed scissor and clean the whiskers after meals. They have no doggie odor and shed little to no hair.
Puppy price: $ 400.00 - $ 1.500.00