Can someone give me some information on the Giant Schnauzer breed?

Question

I have been researching dog breeds for a while now. I am trying to find the right match. I am looking for an intelligent, sturdy, guarding, companion of the larger size. I would like to try and train in the advanced obedience courses, or possibly even Shutzhund.  
The Giant Schnauzer has caught my eye and I would like to know if anyone has owned or dealt with one. I find them to be very beautiful and wise looking dogs. I've read that they can be stubborn and are not good for first time dog owners. I have owned a lab, beagle, and yorkie mix in the past. I trained both my beagle and lab with ease. (potty training the beagle was a slight challenge)
I do have at least 1 hour per day to dedicate solely to exercise (jogging, walking, hiking) and there is a large pond across the street from my house. Do GS's like to swim?
But, any insite on the breed is greatly appreciated.

? · Accepted Answer

There were 2 in my uncle's protection dog class, they were good protection dogs, but were HARD to controller because of there independent minds, one broke loose and bit the trainer. Not to say they are all like that, that is the only two I ever knew.
 
 I have a newfoundland, and she is great. She is BIG and very scary but the biggest love bug, She gets very loud if she thinks I'm hurt but I have absolutely no fear of her biting someone or hurting them. She loves to jog ,and swim but when we get home she is lazy and like to just cuddle with a stinky shoe. Surprisingly she doesn't eat that much, the only problem I have is I'm in the south and have to shave her often so she doesn't over heat. She was super easy to train, and I had her in an apartment, so she doesn't need much room.

I hope this helps! good luck!

AquaSled · Answer

When hand-stripped, the Giant Schnauzer has a harsh, wiry outer coat and dense, soft undercoat. Coat color is either black or salt and pepper (grey). It weighs between 70 and 100 lb (32 to 45 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.

The American Kennel Club lists the Giant as low shedding - and therefore hypoallergenic - along with both other breeds of Schnauzers.However, Giant Schnauzers, as with almost all dogs, do shed. When allowed, the hair on a Schnauzer will grow long, which increases shedding, and thereby potentially increasing allergens. This can be mitigated with consistent grooming to include mostly Long hair. The Giant Schnauzer does not moult.
 
Health problems in the breed include:

Autoimmune diseases (hypothyroidism, Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) (also called Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA)), SLO, Crohn's disease, and so on)
Epilepsy
Hip dysplasia
Incontinence

An extremely intelligent, energetic, strongly territorial dog, the Giant Schnauzer loves his owners and feels great responsibility to protect them. He learns quickly, however, and can distinguish between friend and foe. Giants need a lot of exercise, requiring daily walks, playtime with another dog or romps in the yard. They especially love having a job to do. The breed also requires regular grooming, including brushing and stripping, so owners should be prepared to spend time maintaining the breed’s coat.

Giant Schnauzers can live outdoors in moderate or warm areas
Toe Cancer

Anonymous · Answer

http://www.akc.org/breeds/giant_schnauzer/

HAND-STRIPPED BREED!
You do *NOT* want all that tons of coat soaked in dirty old pond water!!!!

NOT "stubborn"-stronger than the majority of wussy 'doggy-wuvers"!

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Can someone give me some information on the Giant Schnauzer breed?

3 Answers