Giant Schnauzer
Giant Schnauzer with undocked tail (tentative identification)
Alternative names
Riesenschnauzer Russian Bear Schnauzer (early 1900s)
Common nickname
Country of origin
Germany
Classification
FCI: Group 2 Section 1 #181 AKC: Working ANKC: Group 6 (Utility) CKC: Group 3 - Working Dogs KC(UK): Working NZKC: Utility UKC: Herding
Breed standards (external links)
FCI, AKC, ANKC, CKC KC(UK), NZKC, UKC

The Giant Schnauzer is a large, powerful, compact breed of dog. It is one of several Schnauzer breeds. Although it is a fairly large breed, it does not need a tremendous amount of exercise, making it suitable for urban living.

Appearance

The Giant Schnauzer has a harsh, wiry outer coat and dense, soft undercoat. Coat color is typically black but can also be pepper-and-salt. It weighs between 70 and 77 lb (32-35 kg) and stands 23.5 to 27.5 in (59 to 70 cm) at the withers.

When moving at a fast trot, a properly built Giant Schnauzer will single-track. Back remains strong, firm, and flat.

Health

This breed is generally hardy; however, arthritis does occur in shoulders or hips. Its life expectancy is about 11 or 12 years.

History

The breed originated in the Middle Ages in Germany by selectively breeding the Standard Schnauzer for larger and larger sizes. In earlier centuries it was a popular herding breed, but its need for more food than some breeds made it less popular for farmers on tight budgets or with limited resources.

Its popularity grew again in the latter part of the 19th century, when it was used as a drover and as a guard dog.

References

• The New Encyclopedia of the Dog, Bruce Fogle DVM; DK books, 2000