 | Why are so many Giant Schnauzers in rescue?
Giants most consistently end up in rescue due to discipline problems, size issues, and the owners' lack of time to devote to the dog. Giants need exercise, consistent training, positive activities, and interaction with people. They are not content to be left in a yard alone. They are working dogs and if you do not provide them with appropriate activities, they will find inappropriate things to do, such as barking, digging, escaping, and other mischief.
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| | What is the fee to adopt one of your Giant Schnauzer rescue dogs?
Each dog's fee is $350, unless otherwise noted on the "Still Looking" page.
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| | What are the steps for adopting a Giant Schnauzer from you?
First take a look at our "Still Looking" page to learn more about the Giant Schnauzers currently available in dog rescue. Then, contact us for more information. Next, download, complete, and return the Adoption Application (About Us menu > Adoption Application option). We'll then schedule a home visit to help you prepare for your new family member. Once everything checks out, you will pay the dog's adoption fee, complete the adoption contract, and then arrange to bring your new family member home!
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| | Please tell me something about the history of the Giant Schnauzer breed?
Giant Schnauzers, originally bred in Germany as cattle dogs, were introduced into the United States during the 1930s. Due to the rising popularity of the German Shepherd at the time, Giants remained largely unfamiliar to the American public until the 1960s. With the founding of the Giant Schnauzer Club of America in 1962, the public's interest in the breed grew. The number of registered Giants expanded from 23 in 1962 to 1000 in 1987 to 1032 in 2005. (These numbers represent show-quality Giants only. Many Giants are never registered.) Today, Giants are valued for their traits as working dogs as well as family pets.
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| | I've heard these are working dogs? What kinds of work can they do?
Search and Rescue, police work, assistance for disabled, carting, and dog sports (such as agility, and flyball, and other active pursuits.) are just a few areas in which Giants excel. Their intelligence, physical strength, and strong personalities require consistent training and discipline.
For more information, please visit Happy Tails > At Your Service on this website.
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| | I've heard that Giant Schnauzers are very intelligent? Is this true and how will it affect my life with a Giant?
Giants are intelligent dogs, which makes them both a challenge and a delight. They are keenly observant, capable of assessing situations and acting appropriately (with proper training), and highly responsive to positive reinforcement training. Known as "velcro dogs" for their desire to remain close to their human families, Giants do NOT thrive when exiled to a backyard and separated from the center of activity. Giants are known for their comical and playful nature. They are naturally protective and form strong bonds with their owners.
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| | What kinds of behavioral traits do Giant Schnauzers exhibit?
Giants typically have a high prey drive and caution is required near cats, rabbits, squirrels, exotic birds and other small, potentially fast moving animals. Although Giants often are excellent with children, their size can be a problem around young children. Young children should never be left alone and unsupervised in the presence of a dog of any breed, including Giants.
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| | How much do Giant Schnauzers weigh?
While we have encountered Giants weighing 60-110 lbs., the typical Giant weighs from 70-80 lbs. The largest of the Schnauzer breeds, the Giant Schnauzer's average height is 23.5 inches to 27.5 inches when measured at the withers.
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| | Do Giant Schnauzers have any special health issues I should know about?
Giants are a groomed breed, which means they need regular grooming and coat care to maintain their overall health. The most common health issues include skin irritations, thyroid problems, ear infections, hip dysplasia, obesity, and various cancers. Any infected toes or toenails should be treated carefully and biopsied to rule out toe cancer.
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| | How long do Giant Schnauzers typically live?
Like most large breed dogs, their life span is shorter than that of the smaller breeds. Giants can live from 10-14 years.
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| | Can I get health insurance for my Giant Schnauzer?
Yes you can, and it's a great idea to do so! Having veterinary pet insurance means that you can make medical decisions for your pet based on what your pet needs, not on whether you can afford the treatment. Veterinary pet insurance enables your Giant to have the best care, and it is surprisingly affordable. The nation's oldest and largest pet health insurance company is Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. For more information, please call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit their website at www.petinsurance.com.
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| | How can I become a foster parent for a Giant Schnauzer?
Foster families are a necessary part of our rescue program, and we welcome your participation. Please complete our application, which you'll find in the About Us section of this website; then email it to us. We will contact you to process your application further.
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| | How can I become a volunteer for Southern California Giant Schnauzer Rescue?
Volunteers are highly valued for a variety of tasks, including transporting dogs, shelter checks, home inspections, and more. Please contact us with your interests and areas of expertise.
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| | How can I make a tax-deductible donation to your organization?
It's easy! You may write us a check or make an online donation using your PayPal account. Please visit our "Begging" menu for more information.
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