Doberman Pinscher vs Giant Schnauzer

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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
10 to 12 years
Size:

Large

Maintenance Level:

Medium

Shed Level:

Low

Best For

The Doberman Pinscher is a large, sleek and muscular breed originally bred in Germany to be a guard dog. Though they have a long history serving as protectors, these highly trainable, energetic dogs also make...

The Doberman Pinscher is a large, sleek and muscular breed originally bred in Germany to be a guard dog. Though they have a long history serving as protectors, these highly trainable, energetic dogs also make devoted companions and excel in active families.

Doberman Pinscher Temperament

Dobermans are highly intelligent, athletic and alert—all things that make them great guard dogs, which is what they were bred to do. And Dobies take their job as guard dog extraordinaire very seriously. This drive, along with their imposing physical appearance, has earned them a reputation of being not...

Dobermans are highly intelligent, athletic and alert—all things that make them great guard dogs, which is what they were bred to do. And Dobies take their job as guard dog extraordinaire very seriously. This drive, along with their imposing physical appearance, has earned them a reputation of being notoriously protective. But when the pup parent provides the proper training, socialization and structure, these dogs are also a loving member of the family.

You’ll soon discover that, along with their formidable presence, Dobermans possess a deep devotion to their people. In fact, they bond so deeply with their humans and are so dedicated to their families, these affectionate dogs are sometimes referred to as “Velcro dogs.”

In addition to their work as guard dogs, Dobermans have a long history as police and military dogs, dating back to the early 20th century. Dobermans even assisted U.S. Marines during World War II.

Doberman Pinscher Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years
Size:

Large

Maintenance Level:

High

Shed Level:

Medium

Best For

Giant Schnauzers are large and high-energy dogs that do best with an experienced and active pet parent. As the largest of the three Schnauzer breeds, they do best with lots of space—and a tall...

Giant Schnauzers are large and high-energy dogs that do best with an experienced and active pet parent. As the largest of the three Schnauzer breeds, they do best with lots of space—and a tall fence they can’t easily hop over.

Giant Schnauzer Temperament

Giant Schnauzers are amiable yet commanding, and were originally bred to work as guard dogs. The Giant Schnauzer size—and big bark to match!—might make them intimidating to strangers. But with family? They are wonderfully engaged, friendly dogs who want nothing more than to be with their pet par...

Giant Schnauzers are amiable yet commanding, and were originally bred to work as guard dogs. The Giant Schnauzer size—and big bark to match!—might make them intimidating to strangers. But with family? They are wonderfully engaged, friendly dogs who want nothing more than to be with their pet parent.

They’re highly intelligent—Giant Schnauzer puppies can be downright mischievous!—and if socialization and exercise needs aren’t met, they’ll make it their job to create a job for themselves that may be difficult to undo. Digging holes and destroying furniture or slippers are not unheard of! For this reason, make sure you give them a job to do that you actually approve of, like fetching your slippers or the morning paper.

Giant Schnauzer dogs can be good with older kids once they’re properly trained and socialized, but these big dogs don’t make the best of companions for small children that can easily (though accidentally!) be knocked over. Giant Schnauzers can also be trained to live happily with other furry family members, but make sure they’re of the barking variety—best to steer clear of the meowing kind.

Giant Schnauzer Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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