Breed info on the Giant Schnauzer

BREED HISTORY

Like many other dogs, the Giant Schnauzer developed in Germany. Bavarian cattlemen admired the smaller schnauzers, but required a larger dog to drive cattle to market. In response to this need, Sheepdog, Great Dane and Bouvier de Flandres blood were introduced to enlarge the breed. When the practice of cattle driving diminished, however, these adaptable dogs began to guard breweries and butcher shops.

Beginning around the turn of the century, they trained as police dogs, and continue to fill this role in many European countries today. They are intelligent dogs and wear black coats.

 

IDEAL BREED CHARACTERISTICS

Size: Males 25 1/2 to 27 1/2 inches, Females 23 1/2 to 25 1/2 inches (at the withers).

Appearance: POverful, square body with free, driving motion.

Coat and Color: Short, hard, thick, wiry coat; long hair on the head, beard and eyebrows. Solid black color with or without a white spot on the chest, or salt and pepper mix.

Head: Flat, broad skull with a strong, wedged muzzle; dark, oval, deep-set eyes; high, pointed, cropped or uncropped ears.