Grooming
First, the good news: Miniature Schnauzer shedding is minimal. However, this breed does call for regular grooming, which includes trips to the groomer every four to six weeks, baths at home a few times a month and brushing with a slicker brush every day. You’ll become well-acquainted with your pup’s hard top coat and downy undercoat. Before a bath, Schnauzers need “hand stripping,” a term that refers to removing the dead hairs from the dog’s topcoat using a special knife. (If you’re not showing your dog, you can have the groomer take care of the coat with clippers.)
In addition to monthly baths and daily brushing, you’ll want to trim your dog’s toenails at least once a month. When you hear the nails clacking on the floor, you’ll know it’s time.
Brush their teeth every day with dog toothpaste and a dog toothbrush. Regular tooth brushing is important to keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy. If possible, start brushing your dog’s teeth when they’re still a puppy, so they’ll grow up already used to the ritual. You’ll also want to visit your vet for a professional tooth cleaning once a year.
Finally, check your Miniature Schnauzer’s ears every two weeks for debris or excess wax; the hair growing inside them, if untended, can cause infection. If you notice anything, speak to your vet.
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Training
Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent dogs who love to learn. They think learning new things is fun, and they’re eager to please you, which helps makes them less distractible and easier to train. You’ll likely find your Miniature Schnauzer is highly engaged and ready to do whatever they can for you. Basic obedience training (learning commands like sit, stay, come and how to walk nicely on a leash) will be a breeze, and many Mini Schnauzers love learning additional tricks they can show off, like shaking their paw.
Sometimes, your Miniature Schnauzer puppy might show their stubborn side during a training session. Remember to be patient and consistent, and take a break so neither of you gets frustrated.
Be sure to socialize your naturally friendly pup, safely introducing them to new people, other dogs and experiences while they’re young. Take them on walks and let them meet—and sniff—new people and other dogs. Enroll in puppy school, where they’ll learn to play nicely with other puppies and meet new people—all in one place.
Miniature Schnauzers are part of the Terrier group, and terriers like to make their voice heard! You can’t train the bark completely out of your pup, but you can help curb it. Pro tip: Train them to recognize an “all clear” signal that lets them know you’ve heard them and recognized the reason they’re barking. This way, your dog is allowed to tell you when they notice something happening, but can quickly quiet down when you give the sign. Think of it as an “on/off” switch for your dog.
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Diet
Miniature Schnauzers will thrive on a diet consisting of a high-quality commercial dog food. Check the packaging for a statement that says the food meets nutritional standards set by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) to make sure you’re purchasing a complete and balanced product. If you’re not sure about portion sizes, your vet can help you figure out the right amount of food for your pup. Make sure you also select a dog food that’s made for your dog’s age and stage in life (puppy, adult, or senior).
Miniature Schnauzers have a predisposition for hyperlipidemia (also known as high cholesterol) and pancreatitis. Often, this means they should be fed a moderate- to low-fat diet, but check with your vet first. Avoid table scraps, and consider giving your dog low-fat treats.
If you have specific questions about what to feed your dog and how much, chat with your vet. They are in the best position to give you advice about your pup’s mealtime.
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Exercise
Fairly energetic and playful, Miniature Schnauzers need about 45 to 60 minutes of exercise every day. If you don’t have a fenced yard, a good long walk on a leash will meet your pup’s daily energy requirements.
In addition to going for walks, Miniature Schnauzers enjoy playing fetch and running around (they can be speedy pups!). Some Schnauzers may even enjoy swimming, if trained to do so. While the breed as a whole doesn’t naturally love water, some Miniature Schnauzers can learn to enjoy a dip on a hot day. (Never force your dog to swim if they don’t want to, of course.) You should always closely supervise your Schnauzer around bodies of water and make sure they wear a dog life jacket, as these dogs aren’t necessarily strong swimmers.
It’s also important to provide your Schnauzer with plenty of mental stimulation. Playing games inside or going to a training class can help wear out your dog mentally and meet your Miniature Schnauzer’s exercise needs.
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Environment
Miniature Schnauzers are affectionate dogs who make great family pets. These dogs are generally a good match with kids, their playful antics keeping children entertained. Miniature Schnauzers are also normally friendly with other dogs and with cats.
The Miniature Schnauzer breed is highly adaptable, making them a great option if you live in a small apartment or in the city. Still, they appreciate having outdoor space to run and play. As long as you’re able to give your pup the daily exercise they need, they’ll be perfectly happy in a small city apartment. If you do live in a home with a yard, make sure your yard is fenced—terriers love to chase things, and Miniature Schnauzers are prone to taking off if they spy a critter they feel needs chasing.
If you’ve never had a dog before, a Miniature Schnauzer will make your job easy. Their outgoing personality, trainability and relatively average exercise needs mean this breed is a great fit for a new pup parent.
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