Grooming a Show Schnauzer

A properly groomed show schnauzer can be a conformation knockout, but mastery of several techniques is needed to give your dog the best look. Beginners are highly advised to apprentice under a professional to grasp the complex preparation process. The grooming needs of an individual schnauzer can vary based on its variety and color.

  1. Bathing and Brushing

    • As a general rule, show schnauzers are bathed only when their coats are soiled. Exposure to water dries the skin and softens what should be a firm, crisp coat. Beards and leg furnishings count as exceptions; you may bathe these areas once weekly with "harsh coat" shampoo. Blow them completely dry, straightening the hair with a slicker brush, for the proper look. For the show ring, "line brushing" brings out texture and volume to the hair as well; go through the furnishings with a pin brush in the opposite direction of the hair's natural growth.

    Stripping

    • Critical to the appropriate style and silhouette for the schnauzer is the advanced grooming technique known as stripping. This removes the dead undercoat from the hair, while slightly trimming the outercoat, and bringing out a healthy sheen overall. Stripping demands great expertise; most owners of show schnauzers have either apprenticed with stripping masters, or take their dog to a recognized professional groomer. Grooming powder is applied with a bristle brush to loosen the undercoat; a stripping knife is then passed through the coat, while the groomer's thumb and forefinger pluck out the undesirable hair.

    Clipping and Trimming

    • Besides stripping, show schnauzers need to be appropriately trimmed and clipped to look their best. A blade is best for giant schnauzers, smoothing their necks and backsides. Trimming is less often used with miniature and standard schnauzers, as stripping is sufficient to prepare their coats. However, schnauzers of all sizes demand trimming of their heads and legs for the best finish. The schnauzer head should take the shape of a brick when viewed in profile; barber scissors and deft hands trim the eyebrows, whiskers, and beards for the look. "Posting," or trimming the legs all the way around in a circular fashion, gives the front and hindquarters the necessary straight style.

    The Day of the Dog Show

    • To complete their grooming, schnauzers need at least an hour before entering the show ring. After setting up a grooming table and noose, the legs and beard are saturated with self-rinse and sculpting mousse before being blown dry using warm air. Powdered chalk is applied to salt and pepper schnauzers' legs to brighten them. A light application of hairspray on the legs and eyebrows is the final step before the dog rests, awaiting its time in the ring.