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Pet Insurance for Standard Schnauzers

Find out all about the Standard Schnauzer and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on October 5th, 2023       

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Price range

$3,500 – $5,000

Height

45–58cm

Weight

14–20kg

Personality

Loyal, intelligent, playful

Coat length

Medium, wiry

Exercise needs

Moderate to high

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

12–15 years

Standard Schnauzer

Overview

Standard Schnauzers are a terrier breed that originated in Germany in the 15th century. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a wiry coat, bushy eyebrows, and a moustache and beard.

Standard Schnauzers are one of three breeds of Schnauzer, the others being Miniature Schnauzers and Giant Schnauzers. The Giant Schnauzer was developed in the 17th century by crossing the Standard Schnauzer with larger working breeds, such as the black Great Dane and the Bouvier des Flandres, while the Miniature is a breed created by crossing the Standard Pinscher with smaller dogs like the Affenpinscher.

Standard Schnauzers were originally bred as working dogs, used for ratting, guarding and herding. First imported to Australia in the late 19th century, they quickly became popular family pets. They are known for being intelligent, loyal and affectionate dogs that are well-suited to family life.

Common diseases and conditions of Standard Schnauzers

Standard Schnauzers are generally a very healthy breed, but may be prone to the following:

  • Hip dysplasia: this is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis over time.
  • Eye problems: Standard Schnauzers can be prone to various eye conditions like cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and glaucoma. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are crucial.
  • Autoimmune disorders: some Standard Schnauzers may be predisposed to autoimmune disorders like autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) or hypothyroidism.
  • Pancreatitis: this is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause digestive issues, abdominal pain and other serious complications if not managed properly.

Breed-specific issues:  

Standard Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and independent nature. This can sometimes translate to a level of stubbornness, making early and consistent training crucial. They are alert and naturally protective, which can lead to wariness around strangers. Proper socialisation from a young age helps them distinguish between friend and foe. Additionally, their high mental energy requires regular stimulation to prevent boredom-induced behaviours like excessive barking or destructive chewing.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Standard Schnauzer?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Standard Schnauzer, including the following: 

  • Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.   
  • Type of insurance you choose:  there are three basic types of pet insurance for dogs available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most. 
  • The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.  
  • Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits that apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.  
  • Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover. 
  • Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, while others do. 
  • Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.  

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about Standard Schnauzers

Are Standard Schnauzers good family pets?

Yes – Standard Schnauzers are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, which makes them excellent family pets. They tend to form strong bonds with their families and their playful and energetic disposition means are often great with children.

Are Standard Schnauzers easy to train?

Yes – Standard Schnauzers are generally considered to be intelligent and trainable dogs. They have a keen intellect and are eager to please their owners, which facilitates the training process. However, it's important to remember that they can have an independent streak at times, so consistent and patient training methods work best.

How much exercise does a Standard Schnauzer need?

Standard Schnauzers are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They thrive on activities like brisk walks, play sessions and mentally stimulating games. Aim for at least an hour of exercise each day to keep them mentally engaged and physically fit. Additionally, providing opportunities for off-leash play and exploration in a secure area can help fulfil their exercise needs.

How often do I need to groom my Standard Schnauzer?

Standard Schnauzers have a distinctive wiry coat that requires regular maintenance. They should be groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat in good condition. This includes tasks like brushing to prevent matting, regular trimming to maintain their distinctive Schnauzer look, and occasional hand-stripping for a clean and tidy appearance.

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Standard Schnauzer

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