How to Care for a Miniature Schnauzer

The miniature schnauzer is loving and energetic and can be a bit of a show-off. Plan to spend a lot of time with your schnauzer - this dog will demand it. Also, remember that schnauzers should be kept on leash, as they will take on dogs of any size.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog Beds
  • Dog Bones
  • Dog Brushes
  • Dog Conditioner
  • Dog Dishes
  • Dog Flea Combs
  • Dog Food
  • Dog Grooming Sprays
  • Dog Leashes
  • Dog Shampoo
  • Dog Toys
  • Flea And Tick Dog Shampoo
  • Nail Clippers For Dogs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Vaccinate your miniature schnauzer when you first get her, and make sure she gets yearly booster vaccinations to maintain her immunity to disease. Also, worm your adult dog every three months and consult your veterinarian about flea control products.

    • 2

      Feed your miniature schnauzer high-grade dog food. The first ingredient should be meat if you want a quality product. Crude protein should be no less than 30 percent and crude fat no less than 20 percent. The fiber content needs to be 4 percent or less.

    • 3

      Socialize your miniature schnauzer to be with other dogs at an early age. Schnauzers are aggressive with dogs they have not been raised with and will need to be watched outside your home.

    • 4

      Walk or run your miniature schnauzer daily. Make sure the dog has plenty of playtime off leash as well.

    • 5

      Brush your miniature schnauzer's coat daily with a wire brush. Have a professional trim her coat twice a year. Miniature schnauzers shed very little.

    • 6

      Trim nails every two to three weeks.

    • 7

      Understand that miniature schnauzers are prone to certain health conditions such as kidney stones, liver disease, skin disorders, Von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder) and diabetes.

    • 8

      Know that male miniature schnauzers will grow to 12 to 14 inches and weigh 11 to 18 lbs. Females will grow to 11 to 13 inches and weigh 10 to 15 lbs.

    • 9

      Expect a miniature schnauzer to live about 15 years.