Be sure no exposed electrical cords are accessible by your new miniature schnauzer. Clutter is appealing to puppies, particularly for chewing. Pick up any shoes, books, or other items that could easily be reached by your puppy.
Pet owners commonly keep puppies in the kitchen at first and place gates there. Kitchen floors are usually easier to clean than other areas.
Providing your miniature schnauzer puppy with his own bed will help you train him that this is his space for sleeping (instead of in your bed or on other furniture). It will be reassuring to your puppy for him to have a space that is exclusively for him.
Your food bowls or dishes should be shallow since miniature schnauzer puppies won’t be able to reach the bottom of deep ones. A variety of toys, like rope toys, squeakers, and teething chews, will keep your puppy busy.
An adjustable collar will grow with your puppy. If you plan to take a lot of walks in the evening, you may want a harness with reflectors or one that is illuminated. [7] X Research source
Your veterinarian will be able to offer suggestions regarding appropriate food options for your puppy.
Feed your puppy two or three times a day at the same time. Let your puppy eat for about 10–15 minutes at a time and then discard the uneaten portion. You don’t want to leave it out or your puppy can overeat. Your veterinarian will be able to check your puppy’s growth at visits and let you know whether you are over- or underfeeding him.
Miniature schnauzers can develop behavior problems, such as barking or being temperamental, if they do not receive enough exercise. Since miniature schnauzers are prone to developing diabetes, regular exercise is essential for their long-term health. Don’t walk your puppy in public places until he has gotten the vaccinations necessary to keep him protected.
Typically, hand stripping is done only for show dogs, as it is expensive and time-consuming. If you choose to clip your dog, the wiry topcoat will eventually soften. So, if you prefer the harder texture, you will need to hand strip the fur.
You can use nail clippers shaped like a scissors or ones that work like a guillotine to snip off the sharp nail tips. Regardless of which style you choose, choose one designed for small dogs, particularly when working on your puppy. Avoid cutting the quick, which contains blood vessels and can cause pain and bleeding if injured. A black circle in the center of your puppy’s nail indicates the quick is nearby.
Other signs of problems with your miniature schnauzer’s ears include a bad smell or discharge of earwax, rubbing the ears across carpet or grass, or constant scratching at the ears.
Between baths, it is a good idea to rinse your miniature schnauzer puppy’s beard after eating.
Miniature schnauzers are motivated by positive reinforcement (like praise) and treats. They get bored easily, so keep your training lessons short.
Miniature schnauzers tend to bark when bored. When the dog starts to bark continuously, distract him with your voice or hand gesture. When the dog stops and looks at you, offer a toy or a walk. If you offer the toy while the schnauzer is still barking, the puppy may learn to bark for a reward.
Be sure to leave the door of the crate open so your dog doesn’t feel trapped while inside.
Praise your puppy each time he goes in your designated potty spot. Take your puppy out for a break within 30 minutes of eating. If you need to leave your puppy for 3 or more hours at a time, use pee pads to offer a spot for your puppy to relieve himself.
