Giant Schnauzer: Pet And Protector

This is an excellent all-round breed: good-natured, but a fierce family guardian. However, it can be boisterous and requires an owner willing to walk it daily.

- Shane Brody

The Giant Schnauzer was developed in Germany during the 17th century. Originally bred to drive cattle, it came to have many uses as a working dog. In the early 1900s, for example, it was deployed as a police dog in urban areas such as Berlin.

These days, Giant Schnauzers are used across the world for a variety of purposes, including Schutzhund (specialised attack training), herding, search and rescue, obedience and dog agility. They are also trained for conformation shows, where their beards and imposing, almost military stance, gives them an air of superiority.

The Giant Schnauzer is much admired for its good nature, courage, discipline, loyalty and trainability, traits that make it ideal for protecting family and property