Different Ways to Groom a Schnauzer

Originally used for ratting and as guard dogs, schnauzers today are kept as family pets. They are medium-sized, muscular dogs that are known for the fur that grows longer on their eyebrows, mustache and legs, giving them a very distinctive appearance. As a result, they need to be kept well groomed so that this long hair does not cause problems.

  1. Brushing and Combing

    • Comb the fur on a schnauzer a couple of times a week to make sure that it does not become matted. Start with the legs, brushing the fur upwards with a pin brush, and then finish off with a comb. Check the belly and armpits for mats, then comb the eyebrows, combing in a downward motion towards the nose. The beard should be combed from under the chin in a forward motion. For the body fur, it is best to groom using a hand-held massage brush to stimulate the coat and skin.

    Teeth

    • Keeping the teeth clean on a schnauzer is important to stop plaque buildup and to prevent bad breath. The best way to do this is to get some dog toothpaste and apply it to a toothbrush ̵2; the ones that fit over your finger can be used effectively for this. Massage the dog's teeth and gums using a circular motion for a few minutes each day to prevent dental problems. If you still see a buildup of plaque, a descaler can be used by your vet.

    Clipping Nails

    • It is best to cut the nails a little piece at a time so that you don't cut into the quick and cause bleeding. Stop when you see a small dark circle appear, as this is the start of the quick. Have some styptic powder on hand just in case you do cut into the quick. Trim the nails of a schnauzer at least every two weeks. If the dog's nails make a noise when it walks, then that is an indication that they are too long and should be cut.

    Trimming

    • If you don't want the hair on your schnauzer to get matted then keep it short. The best thing to do is to use a hair clipper or trimmer for the job. Always trim along the grain of the hair and not against it, as this can result in razor burn, which can lead to infections. It is also important to keep the blades well oiled and to clear up any excess hair with the clipper brush as you go along. Depending on how short you want the hair, you can use either a number 10 or a number 15 blade for the cut.