Giant Schnauzer Prices 2024: Purchase Cost, Vet Bills, and More!

With its imposing size and intense personality, the giant schnauzer isn’t for every dog owner. This breed is a true working dog with an innate drive to guard their families. Male giant schnauzers stand up to 27.5 inches tall, while females typically reach 25.5 inches. The dogs can weigh as much as 85 pounds, more if they are overfed. Not only are these dogs large, but they also are extremely active, needing a job, whether it’s tracking, search and rescue, or just jogging with their owners, to keep them calm. You risk owning a huge dog with a big behavioral problem if they don’t work both their brains and body regularly. As you can see, these dogs require a lot of time, energy, and, for sure, money. Read on to learn about giant schnauzer prices and how much it costs to own this big breed.

How Much Does a Giant Schnauzer Puppy Cost?

If you want to own a giant schnauzer puppy, keep in mind they may be harder to find since they are rarer than other purebred dogs like Labradors or golden retrievers, for example. Giant schnauzers from a reputable, established breeder typically cost anywhere from $1,200 to $3,500. 

If you see a giant schnauzer puppy listed for much less than this price, be careful, as the animal may be from a backyard breeder or puppy mill. Why should you avoid these establishments when buying a puppy? Dogs from a backyard breeder are usually not health-tested and often do not receive proper veterinary care. A backyard breeder typically puts profit before the animal’s welfare. The animals may also live in unsanitary, crowded conditions, be improperly socialized, and develop various health issues later in life from poor breeding.

If you cannot pay the purchase price of a giant schnauzer from a reputable breeder, a breed rescue is a worthy option. Adopting a dog from a shelter may cost anywhere from $100 to $300 or more.

Other Factors That Influence the Purchase Price of a Giant Schnauzer

A giant schnauzer from an AKC champion bloodline will likely be on the higher end of the cost spectrum. Dogs from these types of breeders will be vetted for health issues and fit breed standards, from size to appearance to temperament. Giant schnauzers rank 58th for most popular dog breeds by the American Kennel Club, so they may not be as widely available as other breeds. You may have to drive or even fly to purchase the dog from an established breeder, all adding to the cost.

Cost of Vaccinations and Other Medical Expenses for a Giant Schnauzer

Giant schnauzer puppies must get a core series of shots called DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo, and parainfluenza) within the first six to eight weeks of their life. The group of shots averages around $75 to $100, according to the American Kennel Club. Puppies also need to receive the rabies vaccine, which averages around $15 to $20.

All dog breeds need yearly vaccines as well. A rabies vaccine and DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) is usually given every one to three years. This costs around $75 each time.

Giant schnauzers are prone to certain genetic and health conditions, so it’s important to consider these when purchasing the breed, as even the healthiest dog may develop problems later in life. These are possible conditions giant schnauzers may develop, and approximately how much it costs to diagnose and treat them, according to Embrace Pet Insurance:

Hip dysplasia: $1500 to $6000
Elbow dysplasia: $1,500 to $4,000
Gastric dilatation volvulus (also known as bloat): $1,500 to $7,500
Panosteitis (inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones of the legs): $200 to $800

Cost of Food and Supplies for a Giant Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzers need to eat good quality large-breed dog food. They average around four cups of food a day. The typical bag of large-breed dog food starts at around $25 for 30 to 50 pounds and can go much higher for premium kibble brands. Expect a giant schnauzer to go through at least eight large bags of kibble a year at minimum. Don’t forget training treats and toys for your Giant Schnauzer, which can cost as little as a few dollars to $20 or more.

Additionally, giant schnauzers need to be groomed regularly. Their coat is wiry, dense, and low-shedding. A trip to the groomer for a large breed dog can start at $60 and go well over $100. Expect to visit the groomer at least every eight weeks or so.

How Much Does It Cost to Insure a Giant Schnauzer?

Pet insurance is one of those things you don’t think you need until you do. But in the event of an illness, injury, or accident, having pet insurance can save hundreds if not thousands of dollars. You’ll have to pay an ongoing monthly fee for insurance for your giant schnauzer. The average cost of monthly insurance hovers around $68 and can be a bit more or a little less.

How Much Does It Cost to Train a Giant Schnauzer?

Territorial, guarding, and high energy — all are words that can be used to describe the giant schnauzer. The breed is not for the novice dog owner. Their high level of intelligence means they require extra leadership from their owner. Training classes, either with a group, privately, or a combination, are necessary for giant schnauzer puppies, as they help with socialization and behavior. Group classes may cost anywhere from $150 to $250 or more for a series, depending on where you go. A private trainer can be anywhere from $40 to over $100 per hour. Owning a giant schnauzer can be a lot of work, but if you think this is the dog for you, be prepared to put money and time into this wonderfully loyal, intelligent breed.