Dogs

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Germany
MOST SUITED AS Watchdog, guard-dog, and family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder height is 60 - 70cm (231/2 271/2in).

COAT
The coat is rough-haired. The most usual colour is salt-and-pepper; a dark face is desirable with any colour.

CARE REQUIRED
About twice a year the hair needs to be plucked. Check regularly that there is not too much hair in the ears and snip it if necessary. Excessive hair growth between the feet pads must also be dealt with. Comb the long decorative hair embellishments that are a feature of its head to prevent tangles.

CHARACTER
An alert, vigilant, hardy, and sober dog that does not wander, is very loyal to its handler and family, intelligent and eager to learn, thoughtful, good-natured, considerable stami­na, and is not led astray by bribes.Giant Schnauzers bond closely with the family of which they form part. They are not interested in strangers and tend towards shyness, although to what extent depends largely upon the upbringing and socia­lizing process.

EXERCISE
This is a breed that requires quite a lot of exercise. Ensure it gets plenty of outdoor exercise and it will be quite peaceful.

TRAINING
This breed, which is full of character, requires a sound upbringing. If the training is consistent, fair, and full of variety, it will like it. Provided you bear in mind that a Schnauzer has its own ideas and will not follow every command slavishly, it can do well in various sporting acti­vities - especially defence dog trials.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
The Giant Schnauzer causes few problems with dogs and other pets. The usual caveat applies that he must be correctly socialized when young. They are naturally loving with children.