Giant schnauzers are an impressive, large and powerful dog that is virtually non-shedding and, if bathed regularly, does not have a 'doggy odor' thus making them an ideal dog for allergy sufferers.

Giant schnauzers are intelligent, versatile working dogs, reliable, brave, loyal, bold, vigorous and deeply loyal to their owner. They are easy to train, responding best to firm, calm consistency with a positive attitude and rewarding good behavior. Giant schnauzers make excellent family pets if they are well-trained and given regular exercise by a strict owner. They can be reserved with strangers, often to the point of being aloof. They can make good guard dogs and are known to be extremely trustworthy and loyal family dog.

Traditionally, a giant schnauzer's coat is hand stripped, which involves pulling the old, dead coat out by hand or with a stripping knife. All show dogs are hand-shaved in order to maintain the coarse coat typical of the breed. Pet giant schnauzers need to be brushed a couple of times a week and the beard needs attention to avoid matting. A pet giant schnauzer will greatly benefit from a trip to the groomers a few times a year for a good schnauzer clip. Clipping softens the coat and, hence, shows that dogs are not clipped. I clip my dogs at home but if I have a dog that I am wanting to show, I will strip out the coat instead. Learning to clip a giant schnauzer is not particularly difficult; it is just a little time consuming. It is best to accustom your puppy to clippers at an early age and clipping should be a breeze.