How to Get Rid of the Black Dandruff on Schnauzers

Black dandruff on a schnauzer may be a sign of a more serious medical problem.

Black dandruff on a schnauzer can be a simple annoyance or a sign of a much bigger medical problem. Normally, black dandruff is usually not dandruff at all, but a sign that your dog has fleas. Other times, black dandruff means that your dog may have diabetes or hyperlipemia, both life-threatening conditions. And sometimes, black dandruff is simply dandruff. Treating dandruff in a schnauzer is similar to treating dandruff in a person. Check with your dog's veterinarian before treating any suspected conditions.

Things You'll Need

• White cloth
• Dog brush
• 2 towels
• Prescription strength canine dandruff shampoo

Instructions

1. Hold a white wash cloth next to your schnauzer's fur. Use the dog brush to brush your schnauzer fur, stroking toward the wash cloth. This will collect the black dandruff. Run a slow steam of warm water over the black specks of dandruff. If they turn red, the black specs are actually flea feces. Treat your schnauzer for flea infestation.

2. Bring your schnauzer to the veterinarian for a physical. While black dandruff is just a nuisance many times, it can also be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Schnauzers are prone to diabetes and hyperlipemia. If your vet suspects that your dog has hyperlipemia, he will likely put the dog on a low-fat diet and prescribe medicine to lower his cholesterol and triglycerides. Failure to treat hyperlipemia can lead to death.

3. Purchase a tube of prescription strength canine dandruff shampoo from your vet. Place a towel in the bathtub and then draw the schnauzer's bath, filling the tub about two inches deep with warm water. Place the dog on the towel and wet his coat throughly. Squirt a quarter-sized amount of dandruff shampoo into your palm, and rub your hands together to create lather. Rub the shampoo along the areas that produce the most black dandruff, and continue scrubbing the dog until his entire coat is covered with the shampoo. Wait 5 minutes, rinse your dog and dry him with a clean towel.

References

• Tyler's Homepage: Canine Hyperlipidemia
• OxyDex Shampoo: Features and Uses
• Daily Puppy: Different Types of Fleas