Feeding: Feeding your puppy on a regular schedule will make a huge difference in your potty training efforts. Two meals a day is best for your dog, but discuss diet and feeding schedules with your Breeder Selecting proper food for your new schnauzer is an important part of their health. The old adage, “you are what you eat” has been proven over and over again. A good quality kibble with a fat content of 10-15% is recommended for our breed.

Because some Miniature Schnauzers can have easily upset stomachs, do not give your puppy or adult any spicy or greasy table scraps. A healthy Min Schnauzer has an excellent appetite, so they will be happy with treats of extra pieces of their dog food as well as a dog cookie. A little fruit or vegetable added to their food, or as a treat is fine – raw baby carrot, a bite of apple or pear, green beans. Over-feeding your puppy can cause loose stools, even diarrhea, not to mention a fat puppy.

Over-weight dogs can develop major health problems simply by being overweight – diabetes, heart disease, etc. Many health issues are often COMPLETELY PREVENTABLE but depend on your good judgment at feeding time. Schnauzers love to eat and can easily con their owner into over-feeding them at meal time or with multiple treats all day. Measure amounts, and do not self-feed or free feed.

Food Allergies: Food allergies are possible any breed or mixed breed, and often may be avoided or minimized by rotating food. Persistent licking of paws or scratching around the face can be a sign that your pet may have an allergy if no other issue can be identified like fleas, etc. Your veterinarian will able to suggest a feeding regimen to assist with identifying any suspected allergies. Also talk to your vet about having Benadryl on hand at home in case of an allergic reaction to bee sting. Ask your vet about the proper dosage.