How to Take Care of Miniature Schnauzer Puppies

Schnauzers have German origins and are included in the terrier group of dogs. The name of the breed comes from the German word "schnauze," which is translated as "muzzle." Variants of schnauzers include the giant, standard and miniature. Mini schnauzers are between 12 and 14 inches tall when measured at the shoulders. During their first year, miniature schnauzers require more care, because you need to vaccinate and train your puppy. In addition, the pet has some basic grooming and nutritional requirements.

Things You'll Need

  • Puppy food
  • Water bowls
  • Treats or chew treats
  • Toys
  • Brush and comb
  • Ear powder
  • Stripping knife
  • Nail clipper
  • Cornstarch or styptic powder
  • Dog ear wash solution
  • Dog toothbrush and toothpaste
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Instructions

    • 1

      Consult a veterinarian and schedule the vaccines for your mini schnauzer. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, canines should get the rabies, canine distemper, canine parvovirus and canine hepatitis shots. Your veterinarian may recommend additional non-core vaccines, according to your dog's family history and personal coordinates.

    • 2

      Feed your mini schnauzer a premium quality puppy food. Puppies have different requirements than adults, because they need to grow. The puppy's diet should contain proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins.

    • 3

      Put out fresh water bowls for your pet and change the water regularly to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.

    • 4

      Reward your puppy with treats during training and playtime. Opt for chew treats, which clean teeth and remove plaque.

    • 5

      Play with your puppy daily. Mini schnauzers are energetic and alert. Diversify the activities and toys you give your pet. Early socialization is recommended to prevent your pet from becoming aggressive around other pets or people.

    • 6

      Brush your pet regularly. If it has tangled fur, use a comb. Mini schnauzers don't shed in excess, so weekly brushing is enough. Feel your pet's skin and identify external parasites or injuries that require veterinary assistance.

    • 7

      Hand-strip the double coat of your puppy if you intend to take it to dog shows or clip the hair short. Perform the hand-stripping using ear powder. Spread the ear powder on the coat and rub it in. Stretch the skin with one hand, while pulling the hair with the thumb and index finger of the other hand. Alternatively, remove the hair using a stripping knife. Strip small sections at a time.

    • 8

      Clip your puppy's nails, being careful to avoid avoiding the quick. The quick is visible if the puppy has lighter colored nails, and is a slightly pink, containing the nerve endings and blood vessels. Trim small parts of the nail and stop when you see a dark circle in the nail center. If you cut into the quick, the puppy will bleed. Stop the bleeding with cornstarch or styptic powder.

    • 9

      Pluck out the fur that grows in the dog's ears and clean its ears weekly with an ear wash solution to prevent the buildup of wax and ear infections.

    • 10

      Brush your schnauzer puppy's teeth daily using a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Plaque deposits turn into tartar within one to two days and tartar cannot be scraped off with a toothbrush. Schedule two annual visits to the vet for a professional teeth cleaning.