Dunglen Miniature Schnauzers

Last Updated:
11/09/2008 01:07:21

The Miniature Schnauzer does not shed, so he often can be enjoyed by persons who are allergic to other breeds of dogs. So you don’t have to worry about getting hairs on your clothes. In return, the owner must keep him groomed to maintain their handsome appearance.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a double-coated breed that has a wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat. The topcoat is maintained by hand stripping and is required for the show ring. The pet trim calls for the same outline but it is maintained using electric clippers. The wiry topcoat will disappear with clippering, but this is the easiest and most efficient way to maintain a neat looking Mini.

A schnauzer should be bathed as often as necessary with any good dog shampoo. It is a good idea to wash the dog's beard and leg furnishings at least once a week to keep them clean and mat-free. A schnauzer usually smells if the beard or teeth are dirty. The beard may be washed more frequently, if necessary. Water should never be put in a dog's ears, and care should be taken to insure that shampoo is kept out of the eyes. The inside corner of the eyes should be cleaned daily with a tissue, as any matter accumulating there can give off an offensive odour and irritate the skin around the tear ducts. Tepid water should be used while shampooing, and care should be taken that the dog is well-rinsed. It is the traces of soap left behind that can cause dry skin and flaky dandruff. A shampoo with bluing in it will help keep white furnishings looking brighter. Always brush the dog thoroughly with a Universal slicker brush before bathing to remove any tangles, and when drying afterwards, use a pin brush to brush the hair upwards to help give the leg hair some body. A flat slicker brush can be used for this, also, but the pin brush will pull out less hair. A bit of hair gel or mousse can be put into the furnishings before drying to help give additional body if scissoring is planned. Once the dog is dry, the flat slicker should be used to separate all the individual hairs by brushing the hair upwards.

Here are some basic tools you will need before you get started. Not all of these will be available in your local pet supply store. Mail order catalogues that specialize in dog show or dog grooming equipment are usually the best source of grooming equipment..