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Best Hiking Dogs

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Prefer to listen? Check out the Dog Works Radio podcast below and subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts 

Hiking with a dog can enrich the experience for both of you, and for your hiking colleagues, but is best undertaken with a canine who’s got the moxie. It’s wise to leave puppies and senior dogs with compromised health at home. And before you hit the trail  with any dog, ask yourself:

  1. Can he keep up? Engage in a vigorous outdoor play session to see who tires out first. If he did, he probably doesn’t have the endurance needed for a hike.
  2. Is he obedient? Place him in the company of other dogs —will he still come to you when he is distracted? If not, he’s not ready for the trail, unless you can keep him leashed for the entire hike. Work on obedience with him: a long-distance return and emergency “drop” on command are crucial for backcountry hikes.
  3. Does he have good hiking genes? With the few notable exceptions below, short-legged dogs should be left at home or only taken along on very easy, short trails. And shorter-snouted dogs—Boxers, Pugs, and French or English Bulldogs, for example—are susceptible to respiratory issues that make long-distance hiking difficult or impossible.
  4. Does he have a clean bill of health? Make sure your hiking dog has regular checkups, and keep his vaccinations and flea and tick preventive medications currently.
BEST DOGS FOR HIKING: TOP ADVENTURE DOG BREEDS Click To Tweet

Most healthy, physically fit dogs can handle a hike through flat terrain that lasts no longer than your longest regular walks at home. But if you really want to hit the backcountry with your best friend along, several breeds stand out as the best hiking dogs. Here we discuss a few of our favorites, along with a few honorable mentions.

THE RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

So-called because of the characteristic “ridge” of hair running the length of his spine against the direction of the rest of his coat, this dog was bred historically as an African lion hunter. With his low-maintenance short hair and efficient stride, the Rhodesian Ridgeback adapts better to heat than most breeds and as such has no problem hiking in it. As much as he is sinewy and strong, the Rhodesian Ridgeback temperament is also fearless and loyal to a fault: if your backcountry hike will take you well off the beaten path, there is no other dog you’d sooner have by your side—he is hands-down the best protector against outdoor threats. And he has earned the moniker “Navy SEAL of dogs” for good reason: his thick pads can handle the roughest of terrain. Rumor has it the Rhodesian Ridgeback can keep pace with a running horse as far as 30 miles. Among the best outdoor dogs, this intelligent, faithful, hardworking breed makes a superlative hiking partner.

THE VIZSLA

A pointer of Hungarian extraction, the Vizsla is an exceptionally trainable dog. She is a natural runner who excels at speed, strength, endurance, navigating obstacles, and jumping—she is even a strong swimmer. And because of her short coat, she adapts well to hikes in warm to temperate climates. She is a good-natured gal who welcomes a hike of any duration and makes an excellent watchdog, an admirable trait for camping.

THE BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG

Hardy, affectionate, intelligent, a gentle giant: these are all attributes of the Bernese Mountain dog, an animal who possesses a natural love of the outdoors and who craves an active lifestyle. A working farm dog from the Swiss Alps, he was made for drafting and droving (moving livestock); his German name, Berner Sennenhund, in fact, means “alpine pasture dog.” He can pull ten times his body weight, and because of this mighty work ethic has no difficulty at all packing in supplies for your backcountry adventure.

The Bernese Mountain Dog loves a large “playground” and thus takes a shine to hike. Easily trained and naturally obedient, he’ll stay by your side unleashed. His agility allows him to navigate rocky terrain effortlessly, and his heavy coat makes him an excellent cold-weather hiker.

 

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THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER

We can’t say enough good things about America’s most popular dog, your favorite, and ours. The family choice for thousands and for good reason, the Labrador Retriever loves running and playing and being outdoors in general. She has been described as weatherproof, waterproof, and tenacious—excellent qualities all. The consummate athlete, she is also friendly to a fault and loves to explore. This makes her a delightful hiking partner for you to be sure, but also for others you encounter since they’ll recognize her as a non-threatening, tail-wagging presence on the trail.

BEST DOGS FOR HIKING: TOP ADVENTURE DOG BREEDS Click To Tweet

Smart, trainable, strong, and hardworking, the Lab will agreeably pack in seven to ten pounds of gear in most climates, but does not like extremes. Bring a good stick or a Frisbee to satisfy her voracious appetite for play, and by all means keep her moving—Labs love to eat (she’s not picky, keep an eye on her) and are prone to obesity; give her loads of exercise to help maintain her girlish figure. She also loves to swim and enjoys hikes that extend her this opportunity. You really can’t go wrong hiking with a Lab.

THE PORTUGUESE WATER DOG

This cheerful fellow is a champ: he was made for hard work, herding fish, retrieving lost tackle or broken nets, swimming as a courier between ships or from ship to shore, and in general, shines in the surf—there is not much he hasn’t done. But in spite of his love for the water, he’s at home on terra firma, too. So if your hiking adventures will take you to the beach or the lake, he’s the top dog. Above all, be prepared for an active lifestyle: the Portuguese Water Dog is adventurous and thrives on daily mental stimulation and physical exercise. Like the Lab, he possesses a friendly demeanor which makes other hikers comfortable around him. But he also loves being within sight of you; this makes him an excellent companion on the trail, ill-suited to leave alone for long periods.

THE SIBERIAN HUSKY & THE ALASKAN MALAMUTE

They are distinct breeds to be sure but share some attributes, notably their propensities as cold-weather traction dogs. The Malamute is the bigger and stronger of the two (weighing between 75 and 85 pounds), comfortable over harsh terrain in cold climates: she can endure temperatures to an impressive 70° below zero. Her massive feet perform like snowshoes, her sharp claws grip the ice. Be advised she rarely barks and thus makes a poor watchdog; she may also exhibit a strong prey drive and a willingness to go after small animals.

Coming from the same genetic stock, the smaller Siberian Husky should not be overlooked as an excellent hiking partner. At 35 to 60 pounds she’s more compact than her Malamute cousin, but as happy in the snow and extreme cold. The Husky is sometimes seen as more social than the Malamute and generally makes a good family pet. She needs loads of exercise and is happy to cover long distances with you on the trail, especially in the cold. She has also earned a reputation as an escape artist with a strong prey drive. And like the Malamute, the Husky makes a poor watchdog: she may howl to identify with her “pack,” but is less willing to alert you to an intruder with her barking.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

  1. The Australian Shepherd is a plucky, hike-worthy canine. Nicknamed the “ghost-eye dog” because of his distinctive, otherworldly eyes, the Aussie is a herding dog known for his excellent work ethic, impeccable social skills, and protective nature. He’s ideal for an active family and makes a good companion for anybody who enjoys exploring different types of terrain. Steep inclines and long excursions are child’s play for him, and his agility and obedience are unmatched; avoid temperature extremes with this otherwise hardy dog.
  2. A German Shorthaired Pointer is an affectionate fellow with above-average intelligence. He’s a bit like our beloved Lab, marginally more difficult to train. And like the Lab, he started purely as a hunting dog and evolved into a worthy family pet owing to his winsome personality. He has a strong prey drive and will possibly bolt at the sight of a small animal, but makes a good guard dog, helpful in the wilderness; you will tire on the trail well before he does.
  3. The Jack Russell Terrier possesses an audacious spirit in a compact package. The Jack Russell has boundless energy and does not tire easily; she’ll stick by your side on the trail and makes an excellent watchdog at your campsite, alerting you to potential intruders.
  4. The Rat Terrier possesses many of Jack Russell’s admirable qualities, but barks less and is arguably more trainable; do not be surprised if she gifts you with a chipmunk or mouse, as she was made for pest control. If you love hiking but your lifestyle otherwise rules out a larger dog breed, the Jack Russell and the Rat Terrier each make a surprisingly praiseworthy companion animal for outdoor adventuring.
  5. And don’t forget the mutt! There are plenty of adoptable mixed breed dogs who make excellent hiking buddies. Just make sure your beloved mutt meets the benchmarks above.

Hike well, hike safely, and hike often, and by all means hike with your dog: including him in your backcountry adventures will make both of you experts, sweetening the experience and galvanizing the already-tight bond between you.

How to Train a Vizsla

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Want to learn how to train your Vizsla to be one of the best-trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

The Vizsla is easily recognized by his sleek golden-rust coat. They can stand between 21 to 24 inches at the shoulder and are the picture of a lean, light-footed hunter’s companion. The long, silky ears frame a facial expression that is sensitive and loving around the house and intense when at work. As a hunter expected to work closely with humans, Vizslas form a tight bond with their owners and hate to be left alone.

Athletes of many talents, Vizslas excel at various sports and activities. They are eager and graceful trotters of great stamina, making them ideal jogging or biking companions. An expert on the breed tells us, “If you don’t have the time to encourage this breed’s full use of its brain, you’re wasting a good dog.”

Prefer to listen? Check out the Dog Works Radio podcast below and subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts 

History

The Magyar people bolted from the Russian steppes sometime in the mid-800s and for 50 years ravaged Western Europe. These brutal marauders rampaged across the continent on horseback, leaving in their wake a wide swath of death and destruction. They ranged as far west as Paris and as far south as the toe of Italy, before settling in what is now Hungary.

The supremacy of Magyar cavalry was predicated on three qualities: speed, agility, and toughness. Accordingly, Magyar warriors carefully bred these qualities into their horses—and their dogs. In this lightning-fast kingdom on horseback, it was either keep up or perish. The Magyars’ nimble red dogs, ancestors of the modern Vizsla, kept up.

Over centuries, Hungarian nobles and warlords refined these dogs and set the type of the modern Vizsla. The breed became famous as a swift, all-purpose hunting dog who could do just about anything asked. In modern times, that eagerness has won Vizslas generations of American fans.

The first Vizsla to come to America, in 1950, was smuggled out of Communist Hungary with the help of a U.S. State Department employee. Fifty years later, a Vizsla named Chartay became the first dog in AKC history to earn championships in five different sports—a quintuple champion. It’s no wonder that the words “versatile” and “Vizsla” so often appear in the same sentence.

Quick Facts

  • Temperament:Affectionate, Gentle, Energetic
  • AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 31 of 197
  • Height: 22-24 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
  • Weight: 55-60 pounds (male), 44-55 pounds (female)
  • Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
  • Group: Sporting Group

GENERAL APPEARANCE

That of a medium-sized, short-coated, hunting dog of distinguished appearance and bearing. Robust but rather lightly built, the coat is an attractive shaded golden rust. Originating in Hungary, the Vizsla was bred to work in field, forests, and water. Agile and energetic, this is a versatile dog of power, drive and endurancein the field yet a tractable and affectionate companion in the home. It is strongly emphasized that field-conditioned coats, as well as brawny or sinewy muscular condition and honorable scars indicating a working and hunting dog, are never to be penalized in this dog. The requisite instincts and abilities to maintain a “dual dog” are always to be fostered and appreciated, never deprecated.

The Vizsla is a versatile, red-coated gundog built for long days in the field. For centuries, these rugged but elegant athletes have been the pride of Hungarian sportsmen and their popularity in America increases with each passing year.


Care

The Vizsla should do well on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Most Vizslas are good eaters, and there is considerable variation in individual dogs’ caloric needs; a young, active dog may require four or five cups each day of high-calorie food, while older or less active dogs may need less than half that quantity. Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Grooming

Vizslas have a short, sleek coat with no undercoat, so they don’t require complicated grooming. They do shed, and occasional brushing with a rubber grooming brush is helpful. When they get especially dirty (or when they roll in something smelly), they will need a bath with lukewarm water, a good-quality dog soap, and thorough rinsing. It is important to keep the toenails short, either with a clipper or with a grinding tool. Ears should be checked frequently for dirt, wax build-up, or signs of irritation. Regular use of a mild ear-cleaning product will help prevent problems. To keep teeth and gums healthy, regular cleaning is recommended; use a product formulated for dogs (not human toothpaste).

Exercise

Vizslas were bred to be active hunting dogs, and they need both physical and mental exercise. Individual dogs’ needs vary, but, in general, owners should plan on a minimum of 30 minutes of active exercise daily—and some dogs will need more than that. In addition to leash walks and games of fetch, most Vizslas need opportunities to run hard off-leash on a regular basis. Mental exercise is as important as physical activity, so training should be part of their routine. Vizslas can be excellent running or jogging companions, with the caveat that young dogs should not run long distances until they reach maturity at about 18 to 24 months. Older Vizslas typically remain active and playful.

Training

Vizslas need consistent, positive training, starting in puppyhood. They are highly intelligent, curious, and sometimes manipulative, so owners need to establish solid communication and teach good behavior. Untrained Vizslas are hard to live with. They can find many creative ways to get into trouble if they don’t have a “job.” Fortunately, they typically love training and thrive on the attention they receive. This is a sensitive breed, so early and ongoing socialization is important to make sure the dog has the confidence to enjoy various activities. With good socialization and consistent training, there are countless ways to have fun with these versatile dogs, including field trials, hunting tests, conformation, obedience, rally, agility, dock diving, barn hunts, lure coursing, scent work, and tracking.

Health

Vizslas are generally a healthy breed. A typical lifespan is about 12 to 15 years. As in all breeds—and in mixed breeds—cancers are a concern. Responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as seasonal allergies; eye disorders, including melanosis or entropion; hip dysplasia; epilepsy; and ear infections. Careful breeders do their homework ahead of time for the best odds of producing sound, healthy pups.

The Vizsla is a versatile, red-coated gundog built for long days in the field. For centuries, these rugged but elegant athletes have been the pride of Hungarian sportsmen and their popularity in America increases with each passing… Click To Tweet

Did You Know

  • The Vizsla is also known as the Hungarian Pointer.
  • The Vizsla was recognized by the AKC in 1960 and is its 116th breed.
  • At the end of World War 1, the Vizsla was all but extinct.
  • The importation of the breed into the United States began in the 1950s.
  • The Vizsla is a multi-purpose dog that is suitable for work on upland game, rabbits, and waterfowl retrieving.
  • The Vizsla is essentially a pointer in type with characteristics of a pointer and a retriever.

Want to learn how to train your Vizsla to be one of the best-trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

How to Train a Portuguese Water Dog

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Want to learn how to train your Portuguese Water Dog to be one of the best-trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

About the Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is super-smart and very biddable—meaning he’s easy to train and eager to please. The breed can be groomed in two styles: The retriever clip (the entire coat is clipped to one inch in length, with the tail tip at full length) or the more check-me-out lion clip, where the coat on the hindquarters and muzzle is clipped down to the skin.

Prefer to listen? Check out the Dog Works Radio podcast below and subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts 

History

​The Portuguese Water Dog once lived all along Portugal’s coast and was used to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and act as a messenger between ships and shore. Fishermen counted on the strong and muscular dogs to be hardworking and seaworthy. They would ride in trawlers from the warm Atlantic waters of Portugal to the freezing cold waters off the coast of Iceland. Technology eventually laid him off from his job, but the breed is still used for water rescue.

Quick Facts

  • Temperament: Affectionate, Adventurous, Athletic
  • AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 50 of 197
  • Height: 20-23 inches (male), 17-21 inches (female)
  • Weight: 42-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
  • Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
  • Group: Working Group

GENERAL APPEARANCE

This highly intelligent utilitarian breed is distinguished by two coat types, either curly or wavy; an impressive head of considerable breadth and well-proportioned mass; a ruggedly built, well-knit body; and a powerful, thickly based tail, carried gallantly or used purposefully as a rudder. The Portuguese Water Dog provides an indelible impression of strength, spirit, and soundness.


Care and Training 

The Portuguese Water Dog should do well on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

The Portuguese Water Dog’s dense, profuse coat is hypoallergenic but requires regular and extensive grooming. The coat ranges in appearance from tight and curly to loose and wavy. It may be kept in the lion clip (where the coat on the hindquarters and muzzle is clipped to the skin) or the retriever clip (where the entire coat is clipped to one inch in length and follows the outline of the dog). Beyond regular weekly grooming, an occasional bath will keep the Portie clean and looking his best.

The Portuguese Water Dog once lived all along Portugal’s coast and was used to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle, and act as a messenger between ships and shore. Click To Tweet

An athletic, active breed, the Portuguese Water Dog requires vigorous exercise every day to keep him healthy and happy. This can come in the form of long daily walks and play sessions with his owner. This extremely versatile breed also exercises mind and body by participating in canine sports such as obedience, tracking, agility, rally, dock diving, and other activities that can be enjoyed by dog and owner. For many enthusiasts, the most special of all the training and exercise options for the Portie is water work.

The Portuguese Water Dog is very intelligent and responds well to obedience training. He is demanding of attention and human contact and greets friends and family with unbridled enthusiasm. The breed often thinks independently, and a Portie may sometimes challenge his owner’s will. He requires positive training methods as well as daily mental and physical exercise. Porties can sometimes be too exuberant for families with very young children.

Portuguese Water Dogs are generally healthy, and responsible breeders test their stock for health disorders and communicate with other dedicated breeders regularly, working together for breed health and preservation of the breed’s unique qualities. A Portie’s ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs.

Did you know that 44th President Barack Obama owns two water dogs named Bo and Sunny?

The Portuguese Water Dog was recognized by the AKC in 1983 and is its 128th breed.

The Portuguese Water Dog coat is profuse, non-allergenic, non-shedding, and waterproof,

The Portie has webbed feet.

When Portugal faced social upheaval in the early 20th century, Dr, Vasco Bensuade, a wealthy Portuguese shipping magnate and dog fancier, took it upon himself to save the Portie breed.

Adventure Dog

Did you know that the Portie is one of our two five adventure dog breeds? This cheerful fellow is a champ: he was made for hard work, herding fish, retrieving lost tackle or broken nets, swimming as a courier between ships or from ship to shore, and in general, shines in the surf—there is not much he hasn’t done. But in spite of his love for the water, he’s at home on terra firma, too. So, if your hiking adventures will take you to the beach or the lake, he’s the top dog. Above all, be prepared for an active lifestyle: the Portuguese Water Dog is adventurous and thrives on daily mental stimulation and physical exercise. Like the Lab, he possesses a friendly demeanor which makes other hikers comfortable around him. But he also loves being within sight of you; this makes him an excellent companion on the trail, ill-suited to leave alone for long periods.

Want to learn how to train your Portuguese Water Dog to be one of the best-trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

How to Train a Norrbottenspets

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Want to learn how to train your Norrbottenspets to be one of the best trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

About the Norrbottenspets

Nobs aren’t large dogs (a big male stands a shade below 20 inches) but their tough, sinewy bodies are built to withstand punishing terrain and harsh climates. They are a small-sized hunting dog of Spitz-type, which was thought to be extinct but survived as a farm and hunting dog in the Northern parts of Sweden and Finland. To be able to navigate the rough terrain and climate of the Scandinavian forests and hold large dangerous game, like moose, Norrbottenspets
(pronounced Nor-Boat-Ten-Spetz evolved to be extremely agile, rugged, and weatherproof with a fearless attitude, while at the same time kind and affectionate companions at home. They exhibit no extremes in physical characteristics because they must do all things well.

Prefer to listen? Check out the Dog Works Radio podcast below and subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts 

Quick Facts

  • Temperament:Fearless, Agile, Attentive
  • Height: 16.5-18 inches
  • Weight: 20-30 pounds
  • Life Expectancy: 14-17 years
  • Group: Miscellaneous Class

History

For centuries, the people of the world’s northernmost climes have bred a type of dog known as spitz. These Nordic breeds can be burly like the Alaskan Malamute or dainty like the Pomeranian, but spitz types share certain traits. These include a profusely coated tail curved tightly over the back, a wedge-shaped head usually bearing a foxlike expression, and erect, pointed ears. The Norrbottenspets (nor-bo-TEN-spets) is a member of this ancient clan of cold-weather hunters and workers.

The Norrbottenspets (or Norrbottenspitz in English) means spitz from the county of North Bothnia and probably originates from small Laika type spitz that were known to live with hunting people in the North Cape area in prehistoric time; small hunting spitz have survived for thousands of years through natural selection. In the very harsh areas of the northern parts of the Scandinavian Peninsula, hunting for food and fur was a necessity for survival. Precious furs like sable, marten-skin and ermine were the only valid currency for centuries. When fur prices dropped drastically after World War II, so did the interest for the Norrbottenspitz.

The breed vanished and had no registrations for many years; hence the Swedish Kennel Club (SKK) declared it extinct. But only a decade later, news came that some true-to-type specimens had been found living as pets and watch dogs on small homesteads in the inland area of North Bothnia. Due to the very dedicated work of a few men, this old type hunting spitz was saved. In 1967, the Norrbottenspitz was reintroduced to the Registry in Sweden and a new standard was drawn up. The FCI accepted the new breed standard and the official name became Norrbottenspets.


Following the Swedish Kennel Club´s desire, Finns began to search the remote countryside of North Finland for native dogs that matched the standard to broaden the gene pool. They were successful and the majority of foundation dogs came from Finland. The studbook is still open in Finland, but was closed in the 1980s in Sweden. The Norrbottenspets population is about 1600 in Sweden and 1300 in Finland with scattered individuals counted in some tens around the world.

Norrbottenspets were accepted to the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service in November 2007. As of November 2012, 181 Norrbottenspets, 175 of these with 3-generation pedigrees, were recorded with the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service.

Care and Training

The Norrbottenspet should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

The Norrbottenspets is double-coated with a topcoat that is hard, short, and straight and an undercoat that is fine and dense. They are very clever and clean dogs, with no offensive smell. Beyond regular weekly grooming, the very occasional bath will keep them clean and looking their best. Their nails should be trimmed when necessary with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. Ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris, which can result in infection. Teeth should be brushed when needed.

To be able to navigate the rough terrain and climate of the Scandinavian forests and hold large dangerous game, like moose, Norrbottenspets evolved to be extremely agile, rugged, and weatherproof with a fearless attitude. Click To Tweet

Nobs are vivacious, energetic, and playful, with an engaging and affectionate disposition. Options for exercise include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or being taken for walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or learning new tricks. Certain outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for expending energy. If you live in an apartment, even short walks in the hallways can give your dog some exercise, especially during inclement weather. Training for dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally can also be a great way to give your dog exercise.

Some dogs may be faced with health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Norrbottenspets are healthy dogs. Working with a responsible breeder, prospective owners can gain the education they need to learn about specific health concerns within the breed.

Did You Know

  • The Norrbottenspets has been assigned to the Hound Group designation.
  • Norrbottenspets are active, but with daily exercise, can be quiet in the home.
  • The breed was so rare, they were once thought to be extinct.

Want to learn how to train your Norrbottenspets to be one of the best trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

How to train a Giant Schnauzer

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how to train a giant schnauzer Alaska Dog Works

Want to learn how to train your Giant Schnauzer to be one of the best trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

The Giant Schnauzer is a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer, and he should, as the breed standard says, be a “bold and valiant figure of a dog.” Great intelligence and loyalty make him a stellar worker and companion.

About the Giant Schnauzer

A well-bred Giant Schnauzer closely resembles the Standard Schnauzer—only bigger. As their name suggests, Giants are imposing.

Prefer to listen? Check out the Dog Works Radio podcast below and subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts 

A male might stand as high as 27.5 inches at the shoulder and weigh 95 pounds. The muscular, substantial body is, as the breed’s fanciers put it, a “bold and valiant figure of a dog.” The double coat is either solid black or “pepper and salt.” Familiar characteristics of the Mini, Standard, and Giant are a harsh beard and eyebrows, accentuating a keen, sagacious expression.

History

The Giant Schnauzer was developed in the Bavarian Alps sometime in the mid-1800s. These rugged working dogs, bred up from the Standard Schnauzer, were used to drive cattle from farm to market.

They also served as formidable guard dogs for farmers, merchants, and innkeepers. After railroads rendered cattle drives obsolete, Giants found work as European police and military K-9s. In America, Giants gained renown as eye-catching show dogs, obedience champions, and courageous guardians of home and family.

Quick Facts

  • Temperament: Loyal, Alert, Trainable
  • AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 78 of 196
  • Height: 25.5-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-25.5 inches (female)
  • Weight: 60-85 pounds (male), 55-75 pounds (female)
  • Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
  • Group: Working Group

General Appearance

The Giant Schnauzer should resemble, as nearly as possible, in general appearance, a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer, on the whole a bold and valiant figure of a dog. Robust, strongly built, nearly square in proportion of body length to height at withers, active, sturdy, and well-muscled. Temperament which combines spirit and alertness with intelligence and reliability. Composed, watchful, courageous, easily trained, deeply loyal to family, playful, amiable in repose, and a commanding figure when aroused. The sound, reliable temperament, rugged build, and dense weather-resistant wiry coat make for one of the most useful, powerful, and enduring working breeds.

Care and Training

The Giant Schnauzer should be fed a high-quality diet appropriate for the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level. Treats can be an important aid in training but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.

The Giant Schnauzer has a dense, wiry, weather-resistant double coat consisting of a soft undercoat and a harsh outer coat. The Giant must be brushed weekly and clipped or stripped regularly to maintain a healthy and attractive coat. The owner should be prepared to spend time maintaining the coat or plan to have the dog periodically groomed by the breeder or someone whom the breeder recommends. The Giant’s ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs.


More energetic and up-tempo than most big breeds, Giants need lots of exercise. Long daily walks play sessions with another dog, or romps in the yard with their owners will do nicely. Giants are great workout companions for people who run, bicycle, hike, cross-country ski, swim, or skijor. All of these activities require a very active partnership with the owner. The Giant needs companionship either in the form of a human he can play with, or another large dog. Finding games he will enjoy, such as hide and seek or tennis-ball chase, will exercise both mind and body and help keep him fit and happy.

The Giant Schnauzer was developed in the Bavarian Alps sometime in the mid-1800s. These rugged working dogs, bred up from the Standard Schnauzer, were used to drive cattle from farm to market. Click To Tweet

Extremely intelligent and strongly territorial, the Giant Schnauzer loves his owners and feels great responsibility to protect them. He learns quickly and can distinguish between friend and foe. Giants want to be with their owners and cannot abide being ignored or left in the yard. A Giant Schnauzer needs to have a job—even something as simple as chasing a ball. The Giant is a “high-energy, protective, territorial guard dog,” says one prominent breed fancier. “The breed is not for the casual owner.” Giants do best with fenced-in running room, regular exercise, and activities that provide mental and physical exercise. They enjoy and excel in dog sports such as carting, herding, agility, coursing ability tests, and obedience. Early socialization and puppy training classes are a must with this strong, protective breed.

Want to learn how to train your Giant Schnauzer to be one of the best trained dogs? Click here to find out how.

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