Breed issues that are within every giant schnauzer:

Every pure breed has its issues that go back to the foundation stock that created the breed. Giant Schnauzers are no different. There are some issues that are not something a breeder can test for that are in the genetics of EVERY black Giant Schnauzer. I have heard people say, oh I want to stay away from this or that breeder because his or her lines carry for toe cancer, heart issues, urinary incontinence, or a Seizure disorder, etc… But what those people fail to realize is that those illnesses are deep within the breed and absolutely every Giant has that in their genetics. It will show up every so often and a breeder is shocked when it does because it is so rare that it will lie dormant many generations. A breeding pair of Giants can have 100 or more perfect dogs and then have one with toe cancer, bad heart, or a seizure disorder. It is not something a breeder can breed out of the breed. If you are unlucky enough to ever have a dog that has these issues it is hopeful to at least know most issues are not life threatening to your dog if caught early on. It is best to be proactive and each time you trim your Giant’s nails take a good look at the health of the nails and toes. or If your pup seems like he could have had a seizure please watch closely to see if it happens again. If something does not look right you should immediately bring it to your vet’s attention. Early treatment is the number one best way to save your dog. In the case of toe cancer the toe should be amputated and hopefully if the cancer has not metastasized the dog should live a long happy life and not even notice the missing toe. If a dog has seizures there are medications that are available to stop the seizures so your pet can live a happy long-life relatively seizure free. The best thing a breeder can do is test for the things that are testable such as thyroid, hips, Von willbrands, eye disorders, and hip dysplasia which are also within the breed. A good breeder will also not breed two dogs together if they produce inferior puppies when it comes to health. If I ever have an issue with a breeding pair having puppies with issues I would breed those two parents to different dogs from then on and hopefully never have a puppy with an issue again from being proactive and smart on my breeding choices, but of coarse since it is in the foundation stock of the breed it could very well happen again years later. If you go with a breeder that actually cares enough to do the health testing then most likely that breeder will give you a free puppy if ever something drastic health wise shows up that causes a shorter life span for your pet. That’s even if your dog is past the age in the health contract, because they want you to get the puppy you paid for in the end, even if it means giving you a free pup. If you get a dog from someone that does not health test then it is very unlikely they will care enough to give you another pet. It is always worth your while to get one from a responsible breeder that is more likely to work with you if something happens. In the event of free pup given by us: This can only be done if we actually have pups available, so when we retire and no longer breed them, we will not have any to offer at that point.

If you ever need advice or have questions you can always contact me. Tina