The Giant Schnauzer is one of three Schnauzer breeds that originated in Germany, the other two being the Standard and Miniature. When it was first exhibited in 1909 it was called the Russian Bear Schnauzer.

Giant Schnauzers are large and powerful dogs with a wiry and harsh coat that is longer around the face, giving them the appearance of having bushy eyebrows, whiskers, and a beard. Colors include salt and pepper grey or the more common black. They stand between 23-28 inches and weigh in at 70-77 pounds. The tail is traditionally docked, where still permitted, and the ears on a Giant Schnauzer may or may not be cropped.

In Germany the Giant Schnauzer is called the Riesenschnauzer. Dogs resembling today’s breed have existed in the Bavarian highlands since at least the 1800s. They were known as Oblanders and were used to drive cattle and as guard dogs. After WWI the Oblanders were scarce and the remaining dogs were crossed with at least three other breeds. One of these was the Standard Schnauzer, the second was almost certainly the Great Dane, and another was likely either the Bouvier des Flandres or the now extinct Bouvier de Roulers.

Giant Schnauzers are a powerful and dominant breed that needs a firm handler from an early age. They are highly intelligent but some individuals can be headstrong and difficult to train. Early socialization around children and other dogs is a must, and even then they are often too much dog to be around toddlers. This is a breed that is very affectionate towards its owner and bonds strongly with their family. Giant Schnauzers make excellent guard dogs and tend to be suspicious of strangers.
The life expectancy of a Giant Schnauzer is between 11-12 years. They are prone to various diseases, including toe cancer, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and bloat.

A Giant Schnauzer can adjust to an apartment life, but these are big dogs that do best with room to roam indoors and out. They require a large amount of exercise and along with a long daily walk should have other activities to help control their endless energy. Giant Schnauzers are a working breed and are happiest with a job to do; they excel at most dog sports.

The Giant Schnauzer’s coat requires daily brushing and regular trips to a groomer.