They need regular grooming, preferrably by a professional. The hair that grows from inside the ear canal in this breed is a problem that often leads to ear infections if not addressed on a regular basis.
Medically speaking, the biggest thing you need to know is to NEVER, EVER feed it table scraps. That's the number one cause of pancreatitis in dogs in general....and schnauzers are about 20 times more likely to develop pancreatitis and hyperlipidemia than other breeds or mixed breeds. As a result, they are also more prone to diabetes. They seem to do best on higher-fiber diets than other breeds. Discuss all of this with your DVM, and request annual blood panels on your dog to help catch any such problems in the earliest stages (before they get out of hand), when you'll have the most options available to you.
They are also prone to skin problems and skin growths (usually benign, but annoying) at any age....and cataracts when they get older.
They are very smart, loyal companions, and when properly cared for, can live into their late teens.
2006-10-15 14:27:39
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answer #1
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answered by A Veterinarian 4
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I have a miniature schnauzzer, he's so cute! He's not very hard to take care of at all. Feed three times a day, take out once before you leave at work once you get home and once before you go to bed. He's bark was a little annoying as a puppy but now he hardly barks at all. I love my dog Maxwell and i think a you would love a miniature schnauzzer.
2006-10-15 20:23:39
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answer #2
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answered by Cloudyday 2
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First, please consider adopting one in need of a forever home rather than buying one from a breeder. There are currently 845 schnauzers listed on petfinder.com alone. There are many other schnauzer rescue groups out there, I will be happy to help you locate one if you'd like.
Second, they are great dogs. Very intelligent, loving, and loyal. Though than can be a little hyper and some are a little snippy. But all in all this is a great breed!
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/miniatureschnauzer.htm
2006-10-15 20:38:16
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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Excellent choice. They come in two flavors, salt-peper and black, and most of them look something inbetween. They are good dogs with children and enjoy being on "laps". As other posts mentioned, make sure you get him groomed and also comb/brush each day since they do not shed. Pick a balanced food like Nutromax or Eukanuba and don't feed it table scraps.
I would recommend getting a small puppy from a breader or a small privately owned pet store (they get theirs from breaders) and stay away from the mill pet stores like Petland. Expect to pay around 350 - 500.
I am one that is not for resuces or pound dogs, especially if you have small children. All you are getting is someone elses problems.
2006-10-15 21:28:07
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answer #4
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answered by Toadman50 3
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We have had a total of 3 in our family over the years, and they all lived until 16 years or more. Very nice dog, and very smart. They are not hard to care for, and their tempermant was good in all of them.
2006-10-15 21:04:43
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answer #5
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answered by dodgecummins06 2
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Not sure of your disposition, I would think a bit protective as I have a schnauzer mix and he was very protective during his mid-years, but now very mellow, and old...
Check out http://www.petsell.com if you're looking to buy one and can't find one to adopt.
2006-10-15 20:58:07
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answer #6
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answered by Anonymous
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Grooming is important, try to brush him daily and check to make sure his ears are clean. These are very active dogs so make sure you exercise him and play with him regularly. My Schnauzer was a "talker", so you might want to train him to be quiet on command. Good Luck!
2006-10-15 20:31:50
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answer #7
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answered by Anne E 2
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Yes, get a blck one and named him Jock after mine.
2006-10-15 20:27:52
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answer #8
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answered by Lil' Gay Monster 7
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