Fresh Vegetables for Miniature Schnauzers

While it may seem like your miniature schnauzer gets all the nutrients he needs from meat and kibble, vegetables are an important addition to a miniature schnauzer's diet. The antioxidants in many vegetables help prevent weight gain, eye problems and skin disorders that miniature schnauzers are prone to contracting.

  1. Celery

    • High fiber foods such as celery are beneficial to dogs just as they are beneficial to humans. Your miniature schnauzer can chew on a whole stalk of celery for fun or you can cut the stalk into smaller sections that mix into his food. If you feed a whole stalk in one piece, make sure it keeps it in a safe place. It is not pleasant to find half-chewed celery mashed into your rug.

    Spinach

    • Spinach leaves make an easy addition to any of your dog's meals or as a light snack. Chop or shred raw spinach and spread it liberally through your dog's meal. Spinach works best in wet food meals because it merges into the wet food, allowing your dog to eat it whole. In dry food, a large portion of the spinach may end up at the bottom of the bowl, untouched. If you feed the loose leaves to your schnauzer as a snack, cut the leaves into 1 inch by 1/2 inch long strips so your schnauzer's small mouth can easily handle each leaf.

    Carrots

    • Carrots have a crunchy texture your dog will enjoy plus a whole host of health benefits. Carrots contain beta carotene, an antioxidant that helps repair damaged cells. You will have to cut the carrots into small chunks for your miniature schnauzer, though. Cut the carrot into 1/4 of an inch thick coin pieces and then cut the coins in half. Remember, your miniature schnauzer has a small mouth and throat, so you need to cut up solid foods like carrots carefully to ensure it doesn't choke.

    Cayenne Peppers

    • Most miniature schnauzers will not willingly eat cayenne peppers, but the peppers have a whole host of healing properties. Cayenne peppers bring down swelling and reduce pain, making them an ideal meal additive for older miniature schnauzers that suffer chronic soreness. The peppers can also increase blood flow and provide a boost of vitamin C. Mix in small amounts of the peppers with some of the more robust food your dog eats to hide the scent and flavor.