Giant Schnauzer Vs Doberman Which One Is Actually Easier To Train

Choosing between a Giant Schnauzer and a Doberman isn't just about size or appearance—it's about compatibility, especially when it comes to training. Both breeds are renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and working ability, but subtle differences in temperament, energy levels, and responsiveness can make one significantly easier to train than the other, depending on your experience and lifestyle.

While both dogs excel in obedience and protection roles, understanding how they learn, what motivates them, and how they respond to correction is crucial for long-term success. This guide breaks down key behavioral traits, training timelines, and real-world challenges to help you decide which breed aligns better with your training goals.

Intelligence and Learning Speed

Both the Giant Schnauzer and the Doberman rank among the most intelligent dog breeds. According to canine psychologist Dr. Stanley Coren’s research in *The Intelligence of Dogs*, both breeds fall within the top 10 in terms of working and obedience intelligence. However, their learning styles differ subtly.

Dobermans tend to pick up commands faster—often after fewer than five repetitions—and are more eager to please during initial training phases. Their history as military and police dogs has bred a natural inclination toward structured environments and clear leadership.

Giant Schnauzers, while equally intelligent, possess a more independent mindset rooted in their herding and guarding heritage. They assess situations before responding, which can appear as hesitation or stubbornness to inexperienced handlers. This doesn’t mean they’re slower learners; rather, they require consistent reasoning behind commands to stay engaged.

“Dobermans are like precision instruments—responsive, fast, and reliable under direction. Giant Schnauzers are more like seasoned advisors—they want to understand the ‘why’ before acting.” — Sarah Linwood, Certified Canine Behaviorist

Temperament and Trainability Factors

Trainability isn’t solely about intelligence—it’s also influenced by temperament, sensitivity, and socialization needs.

Dobermans are highly sensitive to tone and body language. While this makes them responsive to positive reinforcement, it also means harsh corrections can damage trust and hinder progress. They thrive under confident, calm leadership and benefit from early exposure to diverse environments.

Giant Schnauzers, on the other hand, are bolder and more assertive. They naturally take initiative, which can be an asset in advanced training (like protection sports) but a challenge in basic obedience if not properly channeled. Without firm boundaries, they may test limits, especially during adolescence.

Tip: Use high-value treats and short, focused sessions for both breeds—especially during puppyhood—to maintain engagement without overwhelming their focus.

Training Comparison Table

Factor	Doberman	Giant Schnauzer
Learning Speed	Very fast (1–5 reps)	Fairly fast (5–15 reps)
Response to Commands	Immediate and precise	Waits for context, then executes
Sensitivity Level	High (responds to tone)	Moderate (needs clarity)
Socialization Needs	Critical—prone to reactivity	Essential—develops wariness
Best Training Approach	Positive reinforcement + structure	Consistency + mental justification
Common Challenges	Fear-based avoidance if corrected harshly	Dominance testing if leadership is unclear

Step-by-Step Training Timeline (First 6 Months)

A structured approach in the first six months sets the foundation for lifelong behavior. Here’s a realistic training timeline applicable to both breeds—with adjustments based on temperament:

1. Weeks 1–4: Foundation & Bonding
   Focus on housebreaking, crate training, name recognition, and “come,” “sit,” and “stay.” Use high-reward treats and keep sessions under 5 minutes. Dobermans typically master these quickly; Schnauzers may need repetition with context (e.g., pairing “sit” with mealtime).
2. Weeks 5–8: Socialization Surge
   Introduce controlled exposure to people, dogs, traffic, and surfaces. Dobermans benefit from confidence-building; Giant Schnauzers need early guidance to prevent aloofness or over-guarding.
3. Weeks 9–12: Leash Manners & Impulse Control
   Begin loose-leash walking and “leave it” training. Dobermans often excel here due to eagerness to comply. Schnauzers may pull or ignore commands—use redirection and consistency.
4. Months 4–6: Obedience Expansion
   Add “down,” “heel,” “wait,” and off-leash recall in safe areas. Enroll in group classes. Dobermans usually shine in structured settings; Schnauzers may challenge rules if bored.
5. Month 6+: Advanced Skills & Specialization
   Consider agility, protection sports, or service training. Both breeds excel, but Schnauzers often outperform in complex problem-solving tasks once fully bonded.

Mini Case Study: Two Owners, Two Breeds

Jamie adopted a male Doberman at 10 weeks. With no prior dog experience, she enrolled in puppy classes immediately. Within three months, her dog responded reliably to all basic commands, walked politely on leash, and passed a CGC (Canine Good Citizen) test. She attributes success to the breed’s eagerness to please and her use of clicker training.

Meanwhile, Mark, an experienced handler, brought home a female Giant Schnauzer. Despite his background, he found her resistant to “down-stay” and prone to barking at strangers. After adjusting his method—using real-life scenarios to explain commands (e.g., “stay” while opening the door)—her compliance improved dramatically by month five.

The contrast highlights a key insight: Dobermans are generally easier for novice trainers, while Giant Schnauzers reward experienced handlers who invest in relationship-based training.

Checklist: Choosing the Right Breed for Your Training Skill Level

• ✅ Are you a first-time dog owner? → Lean toward Doberman
• ✅ Can you commit to daily training sessions (15–20 mins)? → Essential for both
• ✅ Do you have experience managing dominant or assertive dogs? → Giant Schnauzer may suit you better
• ✅ Are you prepared for intensive socialization in puppyhood? → Critical for both breeds
• ✅ Do you prefer a dog that follows commands instantly? → Choose Doberman
• ✅ Do you value critical thinking and problem-solving in a dog? → Giant Schnauzer excels here

Frequently Asked Questions

Which breed is better for families with children?

Both can be excellent with proper socialization. Dobermans are more naturally affectionate and patient, making them slightly better for homes with young kids. Giant Schnauzers are protective and may be overly cautious around unfamiliar children.

Do either of these breeds require professional training?

Strongly recommended for both, especially during puppyhood. While Dobermans can succeed with dedicated owners using online resources, Giant Schnauzers often benefit from a trainer experienced in handling strong-willed breeds.

Are Dobermans easier to housebreak than Giant Schnauzers?

Generally, yes. Dobermans tend to catch on faster to housebreaking routines, often within 2–3 weeks with consistency. Giant Schnauzers may take longer due to their independent nature and need for routine reinforcement.

Final Verdict: Which Is Actually Easier to Train?

If “easier” means quicker to learn, more responsive to novice handlers, and less likely to challenge authority, the Doberman wins. Its eagerness to please, sensitivity to cues, and streamlined learning curve make it ideal for first-time owners seeking a trainable, loyal companion.

However, if “easier” means more adaptable to advanced tasks, resilient under pressure, and capable of independent decision-making when needed, the Giant Schnauzer has the edge. It’s not necessarily harder to train—but it demands a more thoughtful, experienced approach.

In practical terms: For most households, the Doberman is the more straightforward choice. But for those willing to invest time in building mutual respect, the Giant Schnauzer offers unmatched depth and capability.

💬 Have experience with either breed? Share your training journey in the comments—your insights could help someone make the right choice!