The Giant Schnauzer is a highly intelligent breed that requires training and socialization.

 

The Giant Schnauzer is a highly intelligent breed that requires training and socialization. They are bold and need an equally bold influence in their life. They thrive on learning new tasks. This can make training them a lot of fun. It is also what can make them a handful or difficult to the wrong owners. Giants can easily bond with just one person in the family, it is very common. That is why it is very important for every family member to give them commands, feed and train them. Even with that they have tendencies to favor one member a bit more. Usually their most comfortable spot is at the feet of their master.

The Giant Schnauzer is a breed that by nature is territorial and protective. They are capable of doing many tasks. They are a good solid working breed. Need a trainer who knows what they are doing. They learn quickly but are not typically the type of dog that is a people pleaser. They have a lot of personality of their own. They are very good are reading body language, they can access people quickly. They can be manipulative. Even with all of that there are a number of giants doing therapy work. This is only done through socialization, training, consistency, love and patience. Structured training and socialization in a class situation is beyond helpful. While many giants are capable of doing this type of work, some may be more reluctant do to the dogs own personality. I would make routine trips to parks and places that allow dogs. Handing treats to strangers and teaching my giants that strangers are ok. Even with all this socialization we do with them I find they are still protective of their home and family if the need arises

Hierarchy is very important to their social structure with other dogs, with the people and family members. They need to learn their place in a family. That the other family members are above the giant. Give your giant rules, be firm and consistent and they will be a wonderful companion. It takes good parenting to raise a giant. You should always remember when raising a giant puppy that while it is cute and small in the beginning it will be large very soon. it could out weight you and with momentum be quite a force. Treat a pup just as you would an adult give the same rules and they will love you for it. they adore the good firm owners and respect that a great deal.

It is vital to teach your giant "house" rules, control commands and where their place is in your family. If you are not clear on this early on and consistent you will expect your home soon would be run by this 4 legged master. That is never a good situation and the reason why many giants end up in rescue situations. Anyone who has one of my giants knows I do not want any of my dogs in rescue and will take back any dog at any time of it's life no matter what the reason could be.

With all that said they are absolutely the perfect breed for me. I could not imagine my home without one. It is why many people who have them are giant owners for the rest of their lives. We think it is just like having another child. It takes about the same amount of energy and responsibility but also similar rewards. They are not dogs who need a play mate they are just content to share their lives with you and join your pack.

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