General Information

Description Paws out of 10
Grooming:
Giant Schnauzers are a 'trimmed breed', they do not tend to shed their coat, therefore they will require regular attention. Legs and beard require regular brushing and combing, clipping and trimming is required roughly every 8 weeks. Ears require plucking and keeping clean, nails need trimming, and routine canine dental care. Keeping a Giant in show condition may require a considerable amount more grooming.		 6
Exercise:
An adult Giant needs vigorous daily exercise, free running and mental stimulation; at least 1 hour twice a day. They are a large, strong and active breed originally used to herd cattle, and are classified in the working group of dogs. However Giant puppies will require restricted exercise until their joints are fully developed (up to approx 12-14 months of age), as a rough guide they should receive only 5 minutes of formal exercise for every month of age twice daily (i.e. if lead walking). Therefore a 3 month old puppy will require 15 minutes exercise twice a day. However access to an enclosed garden and free running exercise is fine if the puppy can rest when they have had enough. 		8
Size Category: Large
Dogs are 25½ to 27½ inches to the top of the shoulders, bitches are 23½ to 25½ inches. Giant Schnauzers are very strong, well boned and muscular.		 8
Health Problems:
Giant Schnauzers are a comparatively healthy breed and generally do not suffer from many ailments. However there is currently a requirement that those used for breeding should be eye tested annually for Hereditary Cataracts (HC). As of January 2009 The Kennel Club also recommend Accredited Breeders to litter screen puppies eyes for Multifocal Retinal Dysplasia (MRD), and hip score adults with regards to Hip Dysplasia (HD). Hip scores should be below the average for the breed; 14 as of 01/11/2010.

It is documented that epilepsy and thyroid problems have occasionally occurred in the breed, and most breeders work hard to avoid such problems. The Animal Health Trust also have research indicating that Schnauzers are at a 1.63 x greater risk of developing melanomas (cancers) of the toes, skin and mouth.		 3
Training:
Giants are highly intelligent and extremely trainable. However they sometimes have a stubborn tendency which is thought to be linked to their intelligence. Therefore they will require firmness and consistency. Giants require ongoing training from a very young puppy through to adulthood, in order to learn the ground rules. They like to be with people, and if left to their own devices for long periods may become bored, and find their own entertainment! 		9
Compatability with Children:
Giants are a 'people' breed, they are loyal and devoted to their family. Their boundless energy makes them excellent play mates for older children. However, since they are strong and agile they could unintentionally knock over a small toddler during play. The level of responsibility and attention required by a large breed puppy, such as the Giant Schnauzer, is probably comparable with that of having another child.		 8
Guarding Instincts:
Giant Schnauzers have outstanding guarding abilities, they were used in the past to watch over cattle and their herdsmen, in addition to police and security work. A Giant Schnauzer will be quick to alert if strangers approach their territory. They are a family protector and devoted companion with a combination of courage and calmness.		 9