Instructions
Walk your miniature schnauzer at least twice each day regardless of the weather. Though they are small, they are very active and intelligent dogs and require a minimum amount of exercise each day. Even if you have a fenced yard for it to play in, your dog needs at least one walk daily for bonding and mental stimulation.
Provide a selection of toys. Put some toys away and leave some out so that you can rotate them. Try all kinds of toys to see which ones your dog prefers: chewy rubber, rope, balls, squeaky, stuffed.
Train your dog and work on its commands and tricks daily. You don't have to spend an hour a day on training. Make training a part of your daily routines with a few minutes here and a few minutes there.
Your miniature schnauzer is very smart and needs work to prevent boredom. Teach it the names of all its toys, people in the house and other items. The more you teach the dog, the better behaved and the more relaxed it will be.
Adopt a second dog if your dog likes other dogs. It's usually best to keep to a similar size and temperament. Don't adopt a second dog if your dog has behavior problems as that will only multiply the problems. The new dog will not teach the old dog how to behave, but the old dog will teach the new one bad habits. If your dog is well behaved but lonely, a second dog will be an easy and effective addition to the family.
Buy a few of the new toys that give dogs a mental workout, such as treat balls, which dispense treats at random when the dog moves the toy. Some of these toys are easier than others and a couple have adjustable levels for difficulty. Start with the easier ones and get more difficult toys when your dog has the idea.
Teach your dog to find specific toys or members of the family. Once you've taught the names of the toys, try hiding one along with a treat, and help your dog find the toy. Say the command "find" along with the toy's name as you take your dog to look for the toy. Praise the dog when the toy is found, even if you have to help the dog a lot. This way the dog will learn what is expected.
Join an agility class. Agility is an active, playful sport that many dogs love. You can compete, but it is not required.
How to Keep My Miniature Schnauzers Entertained
Miniature schnauzers are delightful, energetic little dogs. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, but also means they are easily bored. A bored miniature schnauzer can become destructive, over-protective or noisy. Your dog needs plenty of exercise, games and other activities. It may seem like a big job, but the result is well worth the time you put in to help your dog become a wonderful companion for the family. These are loyal and loving dogs.