Before you decide to take home a giant schnauzer dog, it is worthwhile to explore knowledge about the breed. Understanding this breed’s characteristics, origin, health and behavioral requirements will allow us to fully engage and responsibly approach the responsibilities of dog ownership. The Giant schnauzer, also known as a “gentleman among dogs”, is a powerful but elegant dog with extraordinary intelligence and loyalty.
What do you find in the article?
- Giant schnauzer – description and appearance of the breed
- Character of the giant schnauzer dog breed
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Giant schnauzer – health, diseases and grooming
- History of the giant schnauzer dog breed
- Giant schnauzer dog breed pattern
- Giant schnauzer – interesting facts about the breed
- Summary
Giant schnauzer – description and appearance of the breed
The Giant Schnauzer, also known as the Riesenschnauzer, is the largest of the three types of Schnauzers. Built strong and massive, but at the same time harmonious and proportionate.
The main features of the Giant Schnauzer’s appearance are a large head with a distinctive beard forming a “beard” and “eyebrows,” as well as dark, oval eyes full of vitality and intelligence. The coat of the Giant Schnauzer is hard, dense and smooth, with an undercoat to protect it from the cold. The color of the coat is usually black or pepper and salt.

Character of the giant schnauzer dog breed
Skills – what should you know?
Giant schnauzers are extremely intelligent and fast-learning dogs. They show great enthusiasm for various activities, including obedience training, agiliti, search and rescue. The breed is also known for its ability to work as a police and military dog.
What kind of personality does it have?
The Giant Schnauzer is sociable, confident and courageous. It can be independent, but is also very loyal to its home and family. He is often described as a dog with a “human” personality, due to his ability to empathize and understand the emotions of his caregivers.
Giant schnauzer – how to train and raise?
The dog of this breed is intelligent and eager to learn, but can show some independence, which requires a consistent approach to training. Positive reward-based training methods are most effective. It is also important to provide the Giant Schnauzer with the right amount of physical and mental exercise.
For whom is the giant schnauzer suitable?
The Giant schnauzer is a breed for active people who are willing to spend time training and being active with their dog. It can be a good choice for families with children, as long as they are properly trained and socialized.
Giant schnauzer – price
The price of a Shnauzer Giant puppy can vary depending on a number of factors, including the reputation of the breeder, the quality of the pedigree and the conditions under which the puppies are raised. The average price of a puppy of this breed in Poland oscillates between 4000-6000 PLN.

Advantages and disadvantages
Disadvantages
Giant schnauzer is a breed that requires activity and mental stimulation. Without proper training and exercise, it can become boring and destructive. Some Giant Schnauzers can also be a bit stubborn and require a consistent but gentle approach to training.
Advantages
The Giant Schnauzer is an intelligent, loyal and multifunctional dog. His characteristics include courage, work ability, enthusiasm and strength. He can be a great family companion and at the same time an effective guard dog.
Giant schnauzer – health, diseases and grooming
Nutrition
Giant schnauzers are active dogs that need a balanced diet rich in protein and fat to maintain healthy muscle mass. Like any breed, the Giant Schnauzer has its own specific nutritional needs, which should be tailored to its age, size and activity level.
Grooming
Giant Schnauzer grooming mainly consists of regular brushing to keep the coat in good condition and minimize shedding. Depending on the length of the coat, a dog of this breed may also require regular shearing.
Diseases
Like other breeds, Giant Schnauzers can be prone to certain genetic diseases, such as hip and knee dysplasia, as well as heart problems. Therefore, regular veterinary examinations and proper health care are important.
Accessories and equipment – or how to prepare for this breed?
When preparing to adopt a Giant Schnauzer, it is worth investing in sturdy chew toys, a large bed, a leash and harness for a large dog, and a suitable large food bowl. A coat brush is also essential to keep his beautiful, thick coat in good condition.

History of the giant schnauzer dog breed
The Giant Schnauzer, also known as the Riesenschnauzer, has a history that dates back to the 19th century in Germany. First of all, however, it is worth noting that despite its impressive appearance, the Giant Schnauzer is not a natural dog breed. It was created by crossing several breeds, such as the German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman and even perhaps the Newfoundland.
Origins
Initially, these dogs were used as working dogs to help with daily chores on German farms. Their tasks included guarding the farm, herding cattle and protecting household members from intruders. Thanks to their intelligence, strength and reliability, the Giant Schnauzers quickly gained a reputation as excellent working dogs.
Development of the Breed
At the turn of the 20th century, with the development of industry, the need for working dogs began to diminish. Giant schnauzers then began to take on other roles. They quickly gained popularity as guard dogs for factories and warehouses, and began to be used by uniformed services such as the police and military.
During World War I and World War II, giant schnauzers served as patrol dogs, guides for the blind and even search dogs. After the war, interest in the Giant Schnauzer breed grew significantly, both in Germany and around the world.
Currently
Today, the Giant Schnauzer is a valued breed, both as a family dog and as a service dog. It is used in many fields, including animal therapy, rescue search and even canine sports.
The Giant Schnauzer, with its versatility, intelligence and extreme loyalty, is an excellent choice for many types of homes and lifestyles. Its steadfast character and tenacity, while at the same time gentle and devoted to its family, make this breed highly valued and unique.
Giant schnauzer dog breed pattern
The Giant schnauzer is a breed that should be characterized by a strong, but at the same time harmonious and proportional body structure. According to the FCI breed standard, the Giant Schnauzer should reach a height at the withers of 60 to 70 cm for males and 55 to 65 cm for females. The dog’s weight should be proportional to its size, usually settling at 35-47 kg for males and 27-38 kg for females.
Head
The head of the Giant Schnauzer should be strong, long, but not too wide, with a pronounced stop and well-developed cheeks. The nose should be well developed, always black. The eyes should be medium-sized, oval, dark and full of lively expression. Ears are medium-sized, high set, worn vertically.
Body
The thorax should be vigorous, with a well-developed chest and a clearly marked turn of the body. The back should be straight, short and strong, and the loin should be well muscled. The tail is natural, set high.
Limbs
The limbs should be strong and well-muscled, with clearly defined joints. Paws should be large, round, with well-bent toes and hard, black claws.
Coat
The coat of the Giant Schnauzer is one of its characteristic elements. It is hard, dense, with the coat hair should lie densely on the body. The undercoat hair is short, dense and soft. The color of the coat can be black or pepper and salt.
Characteristic features
A characteristic feature of the appearance of the Giant Schnauzer is the “beard” and eyebrows consisting of dense hair, which give it a unique, distinctive appearance.
The breed standard of the Giant Schnauzer notes that dogs of this breed should exhibit certain character traits, such as courage, self-confidence, mental balance, as well as kindness to people, especially children.

Giant schnauzer – interesting facts about the breed
Giant schnauzers are a breed full of mysteries and non-obviousness that make them unique. Here are some interesting facts that may surprise you.
Official Guard Dog
Did you know that the Giant Schnauzer is the only dog that can be officially registered as a guard dog in Germany? This unique trait is proof of the breed’s remarkable protection and guarding abilities.
Bearded
Giant schnauzers are one of the few breeds that have a “beard.” This distinctive trait gives them a unique appearance that is easily recognized around the world.
Endurance
The giant schnauzer is not only a strong and courageous dog, but also extremely sturdy. They are known for their ability to work for long hours without showing signs of fatigue.
Dog Sports
Giant schnauzers are often used in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and tracking. These are sports that require both physical and mental abilities – something the giant schnauzer has in excess.
Rescue Dog
Because of their intelligence and ability to learn, Giant Schnauzers are often used as rescue dogs. Their skills work well in difficult situations, such as searching for missing persons.
Intelligence
The giant schnauzer is one of the most intelligent dogs in the world. The breed is known for learning new commands and tricks quickly, making them extremely versatile dogs.
Pop culture
Giant schnauzers have appeared in several movies and TV series, usually in the role of a loyal and courageous guard dog. However, it’s worth remembering that despite their “movie” careers, Giant Schnauzers are first and foremost family dogs who love spending time with their people.
Summary
The Giant Schnauzer is a unique breed that offers many advantages to the right owner. Its intelligence, versatility and loyalty make it not only a great guard dog, but also a wonderful companion. Remember, however, that this is an active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. Make sure you are ready for this responsibility before you decide on a Giant Schnauzer. But once you do, you certainly won’t regret your decision.
Emily Carter is an experienced pet enthusiast and writer, with over a decade of experience caring for and working with animals. From her early days volunteering at animal shelters to becoming a pet care advisor, Emily has dedicated her life to understanding the unique needs of pets and helping pet owners provide the best possible care for their furry companions. She is especially passionate about topics like pet nutrition, behavior, training, and animal welfare.