The Giant Schnoodle is a designer dog breed between a Standard Poodle and a Giant Schnauzer. The breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. Giant Schnoodles are a relatively new breed, but they have sparked interest with unique personalities and hypoallergenic coats.
If you are interested in owning a Giant Schnoodle, looking for reputable breeders who offer giant Schnoodles for sale is vital. But with the boom in Doodle dogs, it’s possible to find one of these gentle giants up for adoption, which we strongly recommend. These are big strong dogs who need time to develop and train, so invest in early training and socialization, and keep them busy with plenty of activity and mentally stimulating feeding mats.
To give you a complete overview of the Giant Schnoodle, we’ve delved into the work of Doodle and Dog Experts Grace Weston. So let’s move on to what a giant Schnoodle is, their characteristics, and how to care for them.
So, What Is A Giant Schnoodle?
A Giant Schnoodle is a crossbreed mix between a Giant Schnauzer and a Standard Poodle. This “doodle” breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. They are large dogs that can weigh up to 85 pounds and stand up to 27 inches tall. Other names for the Schnoodle include Schnauzerdoodle, Schnauzerpoo, and Schnoodlepoo.
The terms F1, F2, F1b & F1bb are commonly used to describe the Shchnoodle generations. The F1 generation is the first cross between a purebred Giant Schnauzer and a purebred Standard Poodle. F2 is a cross between two F1 Schnoodles, and F1b is a backcross between an F1 Schnoodle and a purebred Poodle (like the F1b Goldendoodle). F1bb is a backcross between an F1b Schnoodle and a purebred Poodle.
The Giant Schnoodle comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, gray, and apricot. This breed requires regular grooming to maintain its curly, hypoallergenic coat. The Giant Schnoodle is an active dog that requires daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Overall, the Giant Schnoodle is a friendly, outgoing, and intelligent breed that makes an excellent companion for families and individuals alike.
History Of The Giant Schnoodle
The Giant Schnoodle is a cross between the Standard Poodle and the Giant Schnauzer. This breed was developed in the 1990s with the goal of creating a dog that had the intelligence and athleticism of the Standard Poodle and the loyalty and protective nature of the Giant Schnauzer. The Giant Schnoodle is a relatively new breed and is still considered rare.
Origin Of Doodle Dog Breeds
Doodle dog breeds, also known as designer dogs, have become increasingly popular over the past few decades. Studies show that they have this boom in popularity because people think of doodles as more hypoallergenic and easier for families and inexperienced owners.
These breeds are a cross between two purebred dogs to create a dog with the best traits of both breeds. The first doodle dog breed was the Labradoodle, created in the 1980s by breeding a Labrador Retriever with a Standard Poodle to create a hypoallergenic seeing-eye dog. Since then, many other doodle dog breeds have been developed, including the Giant Schnoodle, mini Sheepadoodle, and Aussie Mountain Doodle.
Origins Of Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is a breed that originated in Germany in the 15th century. Originally bred as a water retriever, the Standard Poodle was also used for hunting and as a circus performer. The breed is known for its intelligence, athleticism, and elegant appearance. Today, the Standard Poodle is a popular breed for shows, obedience competitions, and as a family pet.
Origins of Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is a breed that originated in Germany in the 17th century. Originally bred as a cattle dog, the Giant Schnauzer was also used for guarding and as a police dog. The breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. Today, the Giant Schnauzer is a popular breed for shows, obedience competitions, and as a family pet.
Physical Characteristics of The Giant Schnoodle
What Does The Giant Schnoodle Look Like?
The Giant Schnoodle has a unique appearance that is a combination of both parent breeds. They have a square-shaped head, a long muzzle, and a pair of floppy ears. Their eyes are usually dark and expressive, and their nose is black. They have a strong and muscular body with a broad chest and a deep chest.
How Big is The Giant Schnoodle?
The Giant Schnoodle is a large dog breed that can weigh between 70 and 85 pounds and can stand up to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. They are bigger than the standard Schnoodle, which is a cross between a Standard Schnauzer and a Standard Poodle. There are also smaller varieties like the toy Schnoodle or Miniature Schnoodle.
Coat and Colors
The coat of the Giant Schnoodle differs depending on which parent breed has the most influence. Ideally, the coat should be soft and wavy like a Schnauzer puppy, but they can inherit the wiry double coat of the Schnauzer parent. This means they may have wiry guard hairs and a softer undercoat. Do not shave double-coated dogs as it can damage the coat.
Regardless of whether the Schnoodle has a Schnauzer double coat or a Poodle single coat, the dog should be very low-shedding and relatively hypoallergenic. Keep in mind; medical sources will confirm that no dog is completely hypoallergenic.
The most common colors for the Giant Schnoodle are black, white, brown, and gray. Some Giant Schnoodles may have a mix of colors or markings, such as white patches on their chest or feet.
Schnoodle Personality, Temperament, and Behavior
Giant Schnoodles are highly intelligent dogs, thanks to their Poodle and Schnauzer parentage. They are also highly trainable but can have a strong personality with an urge to protect. These are natural guard dogs and highly energetic. They need plenty of training, activity, and exercise.
These dogs can be more independent and strong-willed than most Doodle breeds, so read our article on how to train stubborn dogs. They can be wary or suspicious of strangers and need plenty of socialization. However, they can become wonderful family pets with proper training and socialization.
Remember that from their Poodle parent; they can also inherit an extremely sensitive and hyper-attached nature. This can make them a little anxious in some situations, and they may not like being left alone for long periods. This is truly a dog that dog owners will want to invest a lot of time in to build a bond and train good behavior.
Do not leave these dogs in the backyard. They should be part of the family and need a lot of activity and loving care.
These dogs can be very destructive (they love to dig and chew) when young if they do not have proper training, adequate exercise, and mental stimulation. Giant Schnoodles may only calm down and mature between 18 months and three years, so owners need to be prepared to give their dog plenty of guidance, especially while they are maturing physically and mentally.
Interaction with Children
Giant Schnoodles can be great with children, but they need to be socialized with them from a young age. They can be very playful and energetic, making them a great companion for kids. However, they can also be very strong and may accidentally knock over small children.
Interaction with Other Pets
Giant Schnoodles can get along well with other pets if they are socialized with them from a young age. However, they may be wary of other dogs and may need to be introduced to them slowly. They may also be A-type personalities that don’t get along with other dogs, especially other large dogs of the same gender. So it’s best to keep adult females and males separate unless you know that your dog is friendly and tolerates other dogs well.
Health and Care Of Giant Schnauzer Poodle Mixes
Common Health Issues
Giant Schnauzerpoos are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. It’s essential to be aware of these issues so that you can take steps to prevent them or catch them early.
One of the most common health issues in Giant Schnoodles is hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. This can lead to arthritis and other joint problems. It’s a good idea to make sure they are on life-long joint supplements. Another common issue is osteochondritis dissecans, which is also a condition that affects the cartilage in the joints.
According to Dr. Alex Gough, other health issues that Giant Schnoodles may be prone to include:
- Hypothyroidism;
- Diabetes;
- Obesity;
- Pancreatitis;
- epilepsy;
- von Willebrand’s disease;
- Dental disease;
- Skin problems like atopic dermatitis; and
- Urinary tract issues like UTIs and kidney stones.
Dietary Needs
In addition to being aware of common health issues, it’s also important to make sure that your Giant Schnoodle is getting the right nutrition. This means feeding them high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.
Dietary needs are usually low calorie, as studies show that calorie restriction can help big dogs avoid joint problems and arthritis as they grow up and it can also help them live longer! You don’t need to starve your dog, but you should keep them lean. Also keep an eye on any health problems like diabetes that can affect their dietary needs.
How To Groom A Giant Schnoodle
Daily Brushing
Giant Schnoodles need daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their coats. Use a slicker brush or a comb to brush their coat thoroughly. Start from the head and work your way down to the tail. Make sure to brush all the way down to the skin to remove any tangles or mats.
Dental Care
Dental care is essential for the overall health of your Giant Schnoodle. Brush their teeth regularly to prevent tartar buildup and bad breath. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog toothpaste to brush their teeth or add a dental cleanser to their water.
Nail Trimming
Giant Schnoodles need their nails trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth. Trim their nails every two to three weeks using a dog nail clipper. Be careful not to cut the quick, which is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels.
Different Cuts For Schnoodles
Even with daily brushing, you may still need to take your Schnoodle to a professional for a trim every 6 to 8 weeks.
There are different coat cuts for a Giant Schnoodle, depending on your preference and the climate you live in. The most common coat cuts are the puppy cut, the teddy bear cut, and the lion cut. The puppy cut is short, even cut all over the body. The teddy bear cut is a longer cut, leaving the fur longer around the face and legs. The lion cut is a short cut around the body and legs, leaving the fur longer around the head and tail.
Ear Cleaning
Giant Schnoodles are prone to ear infections, so it’s essential to clean their ears regularly. Use a cotton ball or a soft cloth and a gentle ear cleaning solution to clean their ears. Gently wipe the inside of the ear flap and the ear canal, being careful not to push the cotton ball too deep into the ear.
Training and Exercise
Training Needs
Giant Schnoodles are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods such as praise, treats, and playtime. But it is important to start training your Giant Schnoodle as early as possible to ensure they develop good habits and manners.
Socialization is also crucial for this breed. They should be exposed to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age to prevent shyness or aggression later in life. Puppy classes and dog parks are great places to socialize your Giant Schnoodle.
Exercise Requirements
Giant Schnoodles have moderate-to-high exercise requirements and need one to two hours of activity per day. They enjoy walks, runs, and playtime in a fenced yard. However, because they are large dogs, low-impact exercise is recommended to prevent joint problems.
Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for Giant Schnoodles. They also enjoy playing fetch and tug-of-war. Puzzle toys and interactive games can also provide mental stimulation and exercise.
Giant Schnoodle Adoption Tips
Adopting a Giant Schnoodle can be a wonderful experience for those who are ready for the commitment. Here are some tips to help make the adoption process go smoothly:
- Research: Before adopting a Giant Schnoodle, it is important to do your research. Learn about the breed’s temperament, exercise needs, and grooming requirements. This will help you determine if a Giant Schnoodle is the right fit for your lifestyle.
- Contact Adoption or Rescue Organizations: There are many organizations that specialize in Giant Schnoodle adoption and rescue. Consider reaching out to IDOG or other similar organizations that specialize in Doodles for assistance.
- Be Patient: The adoption process can take time, so it is important to be patient. Don’t rush into adopting the first Giant Schnoodle you meet. Take the time to find the right match for you and your family.
- Prepare Your Home: Before bringing your new Giant Schnoodle home, make sure your home is ready for their arrival. This includes purchasing the necessary supplies, such as food, toys, and a bed, and preparing a safe and comfortable space for them. You also need to puppy-proof your home effectively, as this large breed can be a handful.
- Get to Know Your New Pet: Once your Giant Schnoodle is home, take the time to get to know them. Spend time playing with them, taking them on walks, and bonding with them. This will help strengthen your relationship and ensure a happy and healthy life together.
By following these adoption tips, you can make the process of adopting a Giant Schnoodle a positive and rewarding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do Giant Schnoodles live?
Do Giant Schnoodles shed?
Are Giant Schnoodles good guard dogs?
Are Giant Schnoodles hypoallergenic?
What is the difference between a Giant Schnauzer and a Giant Schnoodle?
Are Giant Schnoodles protective?
Are Giant Schnoodles destructive?
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Giant Schnoodle is a unique and intelligent breed that makes a great addition to any family. Their hypoallergenic coat and friendly personality make it a popular choice for those with allergies or small children.
While they do require regular grooming and exercise, the Giant Schnoodle is generally easy to train and adapts well to different environments. Its size and energy level makes it a great companion for outdoor activities such as hiking or running.
Overall, if you are looking for a loyal and loving companion that is also hypoallergenic, the Giant Schnoodle is definitely worth considering. With proper care and attention, it can bring years of joy and companionship to its owners.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.