Before you pay
Health tests and questions before you buy
Evidence first, enthusiasm second.
Screenings the breed club recommends
The AKC publishes the health testing recommended by each national breed club for Working Group breeds. For the Giant Schnauzer it lists a hip evaluation, an elbow evaluation, an ophthalmologist evaluation and a thyroid evaluation. Public results for many such tests sit in the OFA database, which you can search yourself.
Questions for the seller
- May I see the parents' hip, elbow, eye and thyroid results, and the registered names?
- What temperament assessments were done, and by whom?
- What has the dog been exposed to socially?
- What does the contract say about health problems and returns?
- What follow-up support do you offer a new handler?
A sensible order of events
Check papers
Verify registration and test results with the issuing bodies.
Involve your vet
Share records with your own veterinarian before you commit.
Meet in person
See the dog in a place it does not know, with you holding the lead.
Pay safely
Use traceable payment and keep every promise in writing.
About prices
We publish no prices. Quotes for trained dogs vary and a scarce breed can inflate them. Ask for an itemised written quote that separates the dog, the training and any handler lessons.
Ready to talk? Send a request about a Giant Schnauzer, or return to why the breed is hard to find.
Sources
Quick answers
Which tests apply to Giant Schnauzers?
The AKC lists hip, elbow, ophthalmologist and thyroid evaluations as breed club recommendations.
Where can I check results?
The public database at OFA lists results for many tests.
Drawn to the Giant Schnauzer? Start here.
Send a request and K9PN will forward it to an independent professional who works with this breed where you live.