Giant schnauzer, << SHNOW zuhr, >> is the largest of the three schnauzer dog breeds. It was developed in southern Germany in the 1700’s by people who needed dogs that could drive cattle to market. Besides being a pet, its jobs today include police and guard duties. The giant schnauzer was bred by crossing standard (medium-sized) schnauzers with large German sheepdogs. Later the new breed was crossed with Great Danes and, perhaps, with Bouviers des Flandres.
The giant schnauzer has a blunt, powerful mouth and stubby whiskers. Its black or black-and-white coat is hard and wiry. The giant schnauzer stands about 26 inches (66 centimeters) high and weighs about 75 pounds (34 kilograms).
See also Miniature schnauzer; Standard schnauzer.
