How to Groom your Schnauzer

The giant schnauzer is a member of the working group.

Schnauzers require little care to keep their coats looking shiny and healthy. Schnauzers come in three sizes as recognized by the American Kennel Club: miniature, standard and giant. Regardless of which of these schnauzers is yours, the process of grooming his coat will be the same. It may take a little longer to groom the standard or giant schnauzer, but the end result will be the same. An added benefit of grooming your own schnauzer is the chance to bond with your dog while saving money.

Things You'll Need

• Dog Shampoo
• Towel
• Water
• Dog brush
• Mat removal tool
• Ear flush
• Ear powder
• Tweezers
• Hemostat
• Canine toothbrush and toothpaste

Instructions

1. 

   Miniature schnauzers are in the terrier group.

   Bathe your schnauzer using a shampoo specially designed for your dog's coat and skin type. For example, if your dog is itchy use an oatmeal shampoo; for dry skin use a moisturizing shampoo. Rinse thoroughly. Dried-on shampoo can cause a drying of the skin and the resulting itching.

2. 

   Begin by bathing your schnauzer.

   Pluck the hair out of the ear canals using a tweezers or a hemostat. If you are having difficulty, use a drying powder made for canine ears. Alternatively, flush with a liquid ear cleaner made for dogs.

3. Dry your dog's coat using a thick towel, or a standard hair dryer.

4. Brush your dog's coat well. Remove the mats from the coat using a mat removal tool. Gently pull the tool through the mat beginning at the bottom of the mat and working your way closer to the skin. Be sure to brush the coat out thoroughly.

5. Lift your dog's flews (lips) to check his teeth. Look for signs of irritation such as redness or swelling. Report any dental issues to your veterinarian. Using the canine toothbrush and toothpaste, brush your dog's teeth using an up and down motion.

Tips & Warnings

• Scissoring and shaving your dog's coat should be left to professional groomers. It is easy to harm your schnauzer if you do not know how to correctly operate a shaver as you can cause razor burn which can lead to infection.

• Avoid cutting the hair around your schnauzer's eyes with a scissors. Injury could occur with struggling dogs.

References

• Miniature Schnauzer: Grooming
• Schnauzers: Grooming
• Wy-O Schnauzers: Grooming Advice
• American Kennel Club; Breeds; Schnauzer

Resources

• Schnauzers Rule: Grooming Schnauzers