🐾 Giant Schnauzer Puppies for Sale

Giant Schnauzers are loyal, highly intelligent, and protective dogs, making them excellent companions for experienced owners. But finding a reputable breeder or adoption source can be challenging, especially with rising demand and varying price ranges.


🔎 Quick Answers: What Every Giant Schnauzer Buyer Needs to Know

QuestionQuick Answer
Where can I find a Giant Schnauzer puppy?Reputable breeders, AKC Marketplace, GSCA referrals, or rescues.
How much does a Giant Schnauzer puppy cost?$1,500–$7,850, with an average price of $4,550 depending on lineage, breeder reputation, and training.
Are there affordable options?Yes! Adopting from rescues ($100–$500) is a great alternative.
What health issues should I check for?Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), thyroid disease, and bloat.
Do Giant Schnauzers need a lot of training?Yes! They are smart but strong-willed and require early socialization, obedience training, and firm leadership.
What should I ask a breeder before buying?Health testing certifications (OFA, CERF), temperament assessments, socialization process, and living conditions.
Are they good with kids and other pets?With proper training, yes—but their guarding instincts require structured introductions.

📍 Where Should I Buy a Giant Schnauzer Puppy?

1️⃣ Reputable Breeders: The Best Choice for Quality & Health

Buying from a responsible breeder ensures you receive a healthy, well-socialized puppy from parents with proper genetic testing.

🏆 Breeder🌎 Location🎯 Specialty💰 Price Range
AKC MarketplaceNationwideAKC-registered puppies, health-tested parents$1,500–$4,550
Giant Schnauzer Club of America (GSCA)NationwideEthical breeder referralsVaries by breeder
Skyline Giant SchnauzersUSAChampion show dogs, health-tested lines$3,000+
Royal GiantsUSAProtection-trained Giants, working bloodlines$3,500–$7,850
AKC Giant SchnauzersMissouriFarm-raised, American & foreign champion lines$2,000–$5,000
Kentucky Giant SchnauzersKentucky/TennesseeIndoor-raised, AKC-registered puppies$1,500–$2,500
Skansen KennelCaliforniaDecades of experience, domestic & international shipping$2,000–$5,000+

💡 Expert Tip: Always visit the breeder if possible or request a virtual tour. Avoid sellers who refuse to show the parents, don’t provide health records, or offer puppies at unusually low prices.


2️⃣ Online Puppy Marketplaces: Convenience with Caution

Some platforms connect buyers with breeders, but quality varies greatly—some listings are from backyard breeders or puppy mills.

🌐 Website🎯 What It Offers🚨 Caution
Puppies.comBreeder listings, verified sources availableCheck breeder credentials carefully.
Greenfield PuppiesHealth-screened puppies, breeder transparencyAvoid deals under $1,000; research each listing.
Pawrade.comEthical breeder focus, financing optionsHigh prices ($4,550+), but reputable sources.

💡 Expert Tip: Always verify health records, reviews, and contracts before buying through an online marketplace. Ask for video proof of parents and facilities to avoid scams.

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3️⃣ Adoption & Rescue: A More Affordable & Ethical Choice

If you’re open to adopting, rescues offer a budget-friendly and ethical option for adding a Giant Schnauzer to your family.

🏡 Rescue Organization🌎 Location💰 Adoption Fee🎯 Best For
Adopt-a-PetNationwide$100–$500Finding Giant Schnauzers in shelters
HTZ RescueCincinnati, OH$250–$400Specializes in Schnauzer rescues
Local SheltersVaries$100–$300Rare, but worth checking

💡 Expert Tip: Many rescue Giants are adults—puppies are rare. If you want a trained, housebroken Giant Schnauzer at a fraction of the cost, adoption is an excellent choice!


💰 How Much Does a Giant Schnauzer Puppy Cost?

💵 Price Range🎯 What to Expect
$1,500 – $2,500Basic pet-quality puppy, limited AKC registration.
$2,500 – $4,500Health-tested parents, socialized, strong genetics.
$4,500 – $7,850Champion bloodlines, advanced training (protection, obedience).
Under $1,000 🚨Red flag! Likely from puppy mills or unethical breeders.

💡 Expert Tip: Higher prices often reflect quality breeding, but research is key. Some unethical breeders inflate costs without proper health testing.


🏥 What Health Issues Should I Be Aware Of?

Giant Schnauzers are generally healthy, but they are prone to specific genetic conditions.

🏥 Health Issue🔍 Symptoms to Watch ForPrevention & Screening
Hip Dysplasia 🦴Limping, difficulty standingOFA-certified hip testing for parents
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) 👀Vision loss, night blindnessCERF eye testing before breeding
Autoimmune Thyroiditis 🦠Weight gain, lethargy, coat thinningAnnual thyroid screenings
Bloat (Gastric Torsion) 🤢Distended abdomen, restlessnessFeed in smaller meals, avoid heavy exercise post-meal

💡 Expert Tip: Only buy from breeders who provide OFA and CERF health certifications. Skipping health tests now could lead to expensive vet bills later!


📝 Key Takeaways: What to Remember Before Buying

Use AKC Marketplace, GSCA referrals, or verified breeders—avoid puppy mills.
Expect to pay $1,500–$7,850, depending on pedigree, training, and breeder reputation.
Ask for health certifications—OFA for hips, CERF for eyes, thyroid screening.
Consider adoption if you want a more affordable, ethical option.
Avoid red flags like breeders with multiple litters, no health guarantees, or cash-only deals.
Plan for training—Giant Schnauzers are highly intelligent but require consistent leadership and early socialization.

📢 Next Steps: Ready to start your search? Check AKC Marketplace, GSCA, or a recommended breeder’s site for availability. Want help analyzing a specific breeder? Drop a comment below, and we’ll guide you through the process! 🐶🐾

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📝 Expert Answers to Your Questions


❓ Comment 1: “I found a Giant Schnauzer puppy for $800. Is this a good deal or a scam?”

🚨 Be extremely cautious! A low-priced Giant Schnauzer puppy is often a red flag for poor breeding practices, puppy mills, or scams.

🔍 Red Flags to Watch For🚨 Why It’s a ProblemHow to Verify
Price under $1,000 💰Quality breeders invest heavily in health testing—cheap puppies often lack this.Compare prices—average is $1,500–$4,550.
No health testing proof 🏥Breeding without OFA hip and CERF eye certifications can lead to serious genetic issues.Ask for vet records, OFA & CERF health clearances.
No pedigree or AKC registration 📜May be backyard-bred with unknown lineage.Reputable breeders provide detailed lineage papers.
Multiple breeds available 🐶🐶Many breeds sold at once = likely a puppy mill.Good breeders specialize in one or two breeds max.
Cash-only transactions 💵Scammers often demand non-refundable deposits via apps like Zelle or Venmo.Use secure payment methods and request contracts.
Won’t allow visits or video calls 📹Avoiding direct contact = hiding poor conditions.Ask for a live video chat with the puppy and parents.

💡 Expert Tip: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify breeder credentials, health screenings, and living conditions before purchasing.


❓ Comment 2: “Are Giant Schnauzers good for first-time dog owners?”

Giant Schnauzers are highly intelligent, protective, and energetic, making them rewarding but challenging dogs for inexperienced owners.

Pros for First-Time Owners🚨 Challenges to Consider
Highly trainable 🏆Needs a firm, confident leader—not ideal for passive owners.
Loyal and protective 🛡️Guarding instincts require consistent socialization to prevent aggression.
Great for active lifestyles 🚶‍♂️Needs 2+ hours of daily exercise—not suited for sedentary homes.
Minimal shedding ✂️Requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($300–$600/year).
Excel in obedience, protection sports 🎯Can be stubborn and dominant without structured training.

💡 Expert Tip: If you’re a first-time owner committed to training, socialization, and exercise, a Giant Schnauzer can be a fantastic companion. However, if you prefer a low-maintenance, easygoing breed, a Standard or Miniature Schnauzer may be a better fit.


❓ Comment 3: “How much exercise does a Giant Schnauzer need daily?”

A daily walk isn’t enough for a Giant Schnauzer—these are working dogs with high endurance and intelligence. Without enough activity, they become restless, destructive, and difficult to manage.

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🏃 Exercise TypeTime Required🎯 Best Activities
Physical Exercise 🏋️90–120 minutes dailyRunning, hiking, agility training, off-leash play.
Mental Stimulation 🧠30–45 minutes dailyPuzzle toys, obedience drills, nose work.
Socialization/Exposure 🏙️Regular outingsTrips to dog-friendly stores, cafes, and parks to reduce reactivity.
Guard/Protection Work 🛡️OptionalProtection training with certified professionals only.

💡 Expert Tip: If you don’t have time to meet their exercise needs, a Giant Schnauzer is not the right breed. A bored Giant will chew furniture, dig, bark excessively, and push boundaries.


❓ Comment 4: “Are Giant Schnauzers good with children and other pets?”

Giant Schnauzers can be excellent family dogs but require structured introductions and training to avoid dominance or herding behaviors with kids and other pets.

👨‍👩‍👧 With Children🐶 With Other Dogs🐱 With Cats & Small Pets
Protective of family ❤️Can be dominant with unfamiliar dogs.Strong prey drive—risky with small pets.
Best with older, respectful kids (7+).Socialization from puppyhood is crucial.May chase smaller animals unless trained.
Can be boisterous—may knock over toddlers.Neutered/spayed dogs tend to be more social.Some learn to coexist with cats, but not all.

💡 Expert Tip: Early and consistent socialization is key to raising a well-mannered, family-friendly Giant Schnauzer. If raised properly, they can be wonderful with children and other pets.


❓ Comment 5: “How often do Giant Schnauzers need grooming?”

Giant Schnauzers don’t shed much, but their coat requires high maintenance to keep it clean, healthy, and mat-free.

✂️ Grooming TaskFrequencyWhy It’s Important
Brushing 🖌️3–4 times per weekPrevents mats, removes dirt, distributes oils.
Professional Grooming 💇‍♂️Every 6–8 weeksKeeps coat in show condition, trims face and feet.
Bathing 🚿Once per monthCleans coat without stripping oils.
Ear Cleaning 👂Every 2 weeksPrevents infections in folded ears.
Teeth Brushing 🦷3+ times per weekReduces risk of dental disease.

💡 Expert Tip: Giant Schnauzers require professional grooming multiple times a year, adding $300–$600 annually to maintenance costs. If you’re not ready for regular coat care, this breed may not be the best fit.


❓ Comment 6: “What are the most common health issues in Giant Schnauzers?”

While generally healthy, Giant Schnauzers are prone to certain genetic conditions.

🏥 Health Condition🔎 Symptoms to Watch ForPrevention & Testing
Hip Dysplasia 🦴Limping, difficulty standing, reluctance to exercise.OFA hip certification required for breeding.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) 👀Night blindness, eventual vision loss.CERF eye testing needed for breeding dogs.
Autoimmune Thyroiditis 🦠Lethargy, weight gain, dry coat.Annual thyroid screenings recommended.
Bloat (Gastric Torsion) 🤢Swollen belly, distress, drooling.Feed smaller meals, avoid exercise post-meal.

💡 Expert Tip: Always request health clearances from breeders to ensure they test for hip dysplasia, PRA, and thyroid disease. Prevention starts with responsible breeding.


❓ Comment 7: “What should I ask a breeder before buying a Giant Schnauzer puppy?”

When choosing a breeder, asking the right questions can mean the difference between getting a well-bred, healthy puppy and falling into the trap of unethical breeding practices. A responsible breeder will gladly provide detailed answers and welcome your inquiries.

QuestionWhat a Good Breeder Should Answer🚨 Red Flags to Watch For
Do you health test your breeding dogs? 🏥“Yes, all parents have OFA hip, CERF eye, and thyroid screenings.”“No, my dogs have never had issues, so I don’t test.” 🚨
Can I meet the puppy’s parents? 🐶“Yes! You can meet them in person or through a video call.”“No, the parents aren’t here.” 🚨 (Could be a puppy mill.)
How do you socialize your puppies? 🏡“They’re raised in our home, exposed to people, noises, and other animals.”“They live in a kennel until sold.” 🚨 (Limited socialization = future behavior problems.)
Do you offer a health guarantee? 📜“Yes, we provide a written contract with a genetic health guarantee.”“No, but the puppy is healthy.” 🚨 (No protection for genetic issues.)
Are your puppies AKC registered? 🏆“Yes, they come with full or limited AKC registration.”“No, but they’re purebred.” 🚨 (No proof of lineage.)
Can I contact past buyers for references? 📞“Yes, we have happy owners who are willing to share their experiences.”“No, we don’t give out that information.” 🚨 (Might be hiding poor reviews.)

💡 Expert Tip: A quality breeder will never rush a sale or pressure you to buy. They care about placing their puppies in the right homes, not just making a profit.


❓ Comment 8: “How long do Giant Schnauzers live, and how can I extend their lifespan?”

Giant Schnauzers typically live between 10 and 12 years, but with proper care, some reach 13+ years. Their lifespan depends on genetics, diet, exercise, and proactive veterinary care.

Lifespan FactorHow to Maximize Longevity🚨 What Shortens Their Lifespan
Genetics 🧬Buy from health-tested lines with OFA & CERF clearances.Poor breeding = higher risk of genetic diseases.
Diet & Nutrition 🥩Feed high-quality, protein-rich food, avoiding fillers.Cheap kibble with corn, wheat, and by-products. 🚨
Weight Management ⚖️Maintain a lean body condition to prevent joint stress.Obesity leads to joint, heart, and metabolic diseases. 🚨
Exercise & Mental Stimulation 🏃‍♂️Provide daily workouts and brain-engaging activities.Sedentary lifestyles = boredom, anxiety, and health decline. 🚨
Preventative Vet Care 🩺Annual exams, vaccinations, dental care, and screenings.Skipping vet visits = undetected health issues. 🚨
Bloat Prevention 🍽️Feed multiple small meals, avoid exercise after eating.Large meals + rough play = higher risk of gastric torsion. 🚨

💡 Expert Tip: Regular joint supplements (glucosamine & chondroitin) and omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent arthritis and keep a Giant Schnauzer active into old age.


❓ Comment 9: “Can Giant Schnauzers be left alone during the day?”

Giant Schnauzers form strong bonds with their owners and do not tolerate long periods of isolation well. They are high-energy working dogs that need constant mental and physical stimulation.

Time Left Alone🐶 Effect on Your Giant Schnauzer🚨 Potential Problems
0–2 hoursNo issues, as long as they’re exercised beforehand.None, if they have a chew toy or enrichment.
3–5 hours ⚠️May tolerate it if exercised before and after.Might get bored, leading to mild destructive behavior.
6+ hours 🚨High risk of separation anxiety, excessive barking, or chewing.Can lead to severe destructive tendencies and anxiety.
8+ hours (regularly left alone)Not suitable for this breed!Will become frustrated, depressed, and even aggressive.

💡 Expert Tip: If you work long hours, dog walkers, pet sitters, or interactive puzzle toys can help keep your Giant Schnauzer engaged and reduce stress.


❓ Comment 10: “What’s the best type of food for a Giant Schnauzer?”

Giant Schnauzers thrive on a high-protein, low-grain diet that supports muscle development, joint health, and digestion.

🥩 Best Food Ingredients🚨 Ingredients to Avoid
Real animal protein (chicken, beef, fish, lamb)Corn, wheat, and soy (cheap fillers, low nutritional value)
Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids (salmon oil, flaxseed)Artificial preservatives (BHA, BHT) (linked to cancer)
Glucosamine & chondroitin (supports joints)By-products & unnamed meat meals (poor quality protein)
High-fiber vegetables & fruits (sweet potatoes, blueberries)Excess carbohydrates (can lead to obesity)

💡 Expert Tip: Many owners rotate proteins (chicken, beef, fish) to reduce food sensitivities and increase nutrient variety.


❓ Comment 11: “Do Giant Schnauzers need professional training?”

Yes, professional obedience training is highly recommended, especially for first-time Giant Schnauzer owners.

🎯 Training TypeWhy It’s Necessary🚨 What Happens Without It
Basic Obedience (sit, stay, heel)Establishes leadership and control.Dog ignores commands, becomes stubborn. 🚨
Socialization (with people/dogs)Prevents fear-based aggression.May become overprotective or reactive. 🚨
Impulse Control (leave it, wait, recall)Reduces chasing, jumping, and excessive barking.Untrained Giants pull on leashes, jump on people. 🚨
Advanced Training (protection, agility)Gives them a job, mental stimulation.Bored dogs develop bad habits like chewing & digging. 🚨

💡 Expert Tip: Training should be firm, consistent, and reward-based. Harsh punishment methods do not work on this breed—they need respectful leadership, not dominance.


❓ Comment 12: “Are Giant Schnauzers hypoallergenic?”

While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Giant Schnauzers produce less dander and shed minimally, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.

🤧 Allergy-Friendly Traits🚨 Challenges
Low-shedding coat (traps hair instead of spreading it).Requires frequent brushing to prevent loose hair buildup.
Minimal dander production (compared to heavy shedders like Labs).Professional grooming required every 6–8 weeks.
Doesn’t have an oily coat (which triggers more allergies).Saliva can still cause reactions in highly sensitive individuals.

💡 Expert Tip: Regular brushing, bathing, and an air purifier can significantly reduce allergens in the home.


❓ Comment 13: “Do Giant Schnauzers make good guard dogs?”

Yes, Giant Schnauzers are one of the best natural guard dogs. Their intelligence, loyalty, and strong territorial instincts make them excellent home protectors when properly trained.

🏡 Why Giant Schnauzers Excel as Guard Dogs🚨 Challenges of Owning One
Highly alert and observant—they notice even small changes in their environment.Without training, they can become overprotective and react to harmless situations.
Naturally wary of strangers—not overly friendly with unfamiliar people.Requires early socialization to prevent excessive aggression.
Strong protective instincts—will defend their family without hesitation.Can be too independent if not taught to follow commands.
Large, imposing size (60–90 lbs)—intimidating to intruders.Needs firm, confident leadership to channel protective instincts correctly.

💡 Expert Tip: If you want a trained protection dog, professional training in obedience, controlled aggression, and deterrent tactics is recommended. Without it, their natural guarding ability can turn into reactivity or anxiety-driven behavior.


❓ Comment 14: “How do I stop my Giant Schnauzer from barking too much?”

Giant Schnauzers are naturally vocal and will bark to alert, protect, or express excitement. However, excessive barking can become a problem without proper training.

🗣️ Reason for Barking🚨 Why It HappensHow to Fix It
Alert barking (watchdog instinct)Reacts to noises, strangers, or unusual activity.Teach “quiet” command and desensitize them to common sounds.
Boredom barking 🏡Lack of mental stimulation leads to frustration.Increase puzzle toys, training exercises, and daily activities.
Demand barking 🎾Wants attention, food, or play.Ignore the barking until they stop, then reward silence.
Anxiety barking 💔Fear of being left alone (separation anxiety).Gradually increase alone time and provide comforting distractions.
Excitement barking 🐕Overstimulated when playing or meeting people.Teach calm greetings and redirect excitement into obedience tasks.

💡 Expert Tip: Never reward barking by giving in to demands. Instead, reward your dog only when they are calm to reinforce quiet behavior.


❓ Comment 15: “Are Giant Schnauzers difficult to train?”

Giant Schnauzers are highly intelligent, but their strong will and independent nature mean training requires patience, consistency, and leadership.

🏆 Training Strengths🚨 Training Challenges
Quick learners—they pick up commands fast.Can be stubborn—will test boundaries if they sense weakness.
Eager to work—they love having a “job” to do.Needs mental stimulation—repetitive training will bore them.
Excellent in obedience & protection training.Independent thinking—won’t blindly follow commands.
Responsive to positive reinforcement (praise, treats, toys).Harsh corrections don’t work—can cause defiance or fear.

💡 Expert Tip: Training should start early (8–10 weeks old) and be varied, engaging, and reward-based. Incorporating obedience, agility, scent work, or protection training will keep them focused and cooperative.


❓ Comment 16: “What are the biggest mistakes people make when raising a Giant Schnauzer?”

Many first-time owners underestimate the breed’s needs, leading to behavioral problems.

🚨 Common MistakeWhy It’s a ProblemHow to Fix It
Not providing enough exerciseLeads to hyperactivity, destructive chewing, and restlessness.Commit to 2+ hours of exercise daily.
Allowing dominant behaviorGiant Schnauzers will take charge if the owner is inconsistent.Use firm, clear leadership without aggression.
Skipping early socializationCan lead to fear-based aggression or reactivity.Introduce to different people, places, and animals early on.
Neglecting mental stimulationThey need a “job”—boredom results in nuisance behaviors.Use puzzle feeders, obedience training, and interactive games.
Inconsistent trainingMixed signals confuse them, making them stubborn.Keep rules consistent across all family members.

💡 Expert Tip: Giant Schnauzers need an owner who provides structure and leadership—not a household where they get to make their own rules.


❓ Comment 17: “Are male or female Giant Schnauzers better pets?”

Both male and female Giant Schnauzers can be wonderful pets, but their personalities may differ slightly.

🚹 Male Giants🚺 Female Giants
Larger & more muscular (80–90 lbs) 💪Slightly smaller (65–80 lbs) but just as strong.
More playful and goofy, stays puppy-like longer.More serious, mature faster, and independent.
More dominant with other dogs, needs strong leadership.Less dominant, but still requires firm training.
Stronger territorial instincts—excellent guard dogs.Protective, but less prone to overreacting.
More affectionate and attached to their owners.More independent—may not be as clingy.

💡 Expert Tip: If you want a playful, energetic companion, a male might be ideal. If you prefer a slightly calmer, independent dog, a female could be a better choice. However, training and socialization matter more than gender.


❓ Comment 18: “Do Giant Schnauzers drool a lot?”

No, Giant Schnauzers are not heavy droolers compared to breeds like Mastiffs or Saint Bernards. However, they may drool occasionally in specific situations.

🤤 SituationLikelihood of Drooling
After drinking water 💧Moderate—may drip water from their beard.
During mealtime 🍖Low—some may drool in anticipation, but not excessively.
Hot weather or stress 🌡️Low—panting may cause minor drooling.
Excitement or intense exercise 🏃Minimal—most stay dry-mouthed.
Health issues (dental problems, nausea, heatstroke) 🚑Drooling can be a sign of illness—see a vet if excessive.

💡 Expert Tip: Regularly cleaning their beard after meals and water breaks will prevent wet fur and odor buildup.


❓ Comment 19: “Can a Giant Schnauzer live in an apartment?”

A Giant Schnauzer can live in an apartment IF their exercise needs are fully met. However, it requires extra effort compared to a home with a yard.

🏢 Apartment ChallengesHow to Make It Work
Needs space to move—they are large, active dogs.Commit to multiple daily walks and play sessions.
Can develop frustration indoors if left alone too long.Use puzzle toys, training drills, and structured activities.
Barking may disturb neighbors—they are vocal watchdogs.Teach “quiet” command and avoid reinforcing barking.
Not ideal for sedentary owners.Ensure consistent mental and physical engagement.

💡 Expert Tip: Apartment life is possible, but only for owners willing to meet the breed’s high energy and training needs.

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