Miniature schnauzers have a reputation for being stubborn. When they get into a habit, it can take a long time before you can successfully get them to change their ways. But miniature schnauzers are also intelligent and willing to please, no matter what their age. It's never too late to teach proper potty manners to a mini schnauzer.
Things You'll Need
- Collar and lead or fenced-in yard
- Enzyme-based cleaner for accidents
Instructions
Pick a spot outside that you want the mini schnauzer to use as a toilet. Ideally, this spot should be chosen before the dog or puppy comes home. When you bring the mini schnauzer home for the first time, place him at that spot and keep him there until he squats. At the moment he starts to squat, praise him verbally. In this way, a good habit can be started.
Take the mini schnauzer outside regularly. On average, an adult miniature schnauzer needs to go outside 4 hours when awake, although he often can sleep through the night without needing to go out. Puppies, however, need to go out every 2 hours until they are 6 months old and immediately upon waking from a nap. Take the mini schnauzer out whenever you see him walking around in small circles, sniffing the ground.
Clean any accident thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner. This completely eliminates any traces of ammonia that the mini schnauzer's excellent nose will keep finding when he is looking for a place to go to the toilet. He will try to find the scent of where he went before. If the smell is left in the home, then he will get into the habit of using that spot in the home as a toilet.
Take the mini schnauzer to the vet if the dog constantly has accidents, has accidents in his sleep or suddenly begins accidents after months or years of no accidents. "The ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs" notes that mini schnauzers are prone to kidney diseases and bladder stones. One symptom these diseases share is sudden accidents in the house.