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Giant Schnauzer
Large Breed
The Standard Schnauzer is a wonderful breed of dog whose fearless and intelligent nature has led it to be dubbed "the dog with a human brain".
Breed standards
Country of origin
Germany
Weight
14-20 kgs / 31-44 lbs (standards may vary)
Height
45-50 cm/18-20 ins (standards may vary)
Coat
Harsh, wiry, dense undercoat and rough top coat with the hair on limbs less harsh
Markings
Pure black with black undercoat, Pepper and Salt. May have some light markings on the head, chest and limbs.
Lifespan
Long 15 + years
Its ability to learn and lively attitude help to make the Standard Schnauzer an excellent guard dog. But the breed also has another side — a loyal playful disposition that loves human companionship. The Standard Schnauzer will become a friend to someone willing to dedicate time to it, the time this breed deserves.
Temperament
The Standard Schnauzer was first chosen because of its fearless, compact nature that suited it to the jobs for which it was bred. This has not changed; the breed still acts as excellent watch and guard dogs and remains fiercely loyal to their owners. They are alert and playful and can be busy at home or outside. The Standard Schnauzer needs regular and sufficient exercise, otherwise it may become restless. They require early sufficient socialising and consistent training as they can be very wilful.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Standard Schnauzer is a very protective dog that remains loyal to its family and is happy to protect them. The unusual coat is a unique characteristic of the breed with its moustache and bushy eyebrows. They are very playful and make good companions
- Makes a wonderful, protective family pet
- Responds well to consistent training due to high intelligence
- Excels as a guardian and watchdog
- Happy in most climates
- A very light shedder
- Good for apartment living (is OK without a yard)
- Needs regular grooming and skilled trimming and stripping
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Requires sufficient daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Prone to tumours and hip problems