Q&A for How to Groom a Miniature Schnauzer

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  • Question
    How should I treat dander on my mini Schnauzer's back?
    James'Bree Moreton
    Community Answer
    Fish oil or coconut oil can be added to their food, which is very effective for relieving dry, flaky skin and a dull coat; it will take a couple of weeks to take effect, but the results are excellent. It adds moisture, giving relief from the flaky (and probably itchy) skin, and will also result in a much shinier, glossier coat. You can also use a pet shampoo specifically for dry, itchy skin. Oatmeal and/or mild baby shampoos can also be quite effective.
  • Question
    What brand of coconut oil can I use on my dog's paws?
    Community Answer
    The brand itself shouldn't matter, but you can check the label to see if it specifies whether or not it's safe around pets.
  • Question
    Should a Schnauzer's beard be trimmed or should it be left to grow long?
    Community Answer
    It depends on what kind of Schnauzer you have. For a miniature, it's up to the owners to decide, though a trim every two or three months would not hurt. For standard and giant schnauzers, you may want to get them trimmed at least once a month.
  • Question
    Bedsides brushing, how often does a mini Schnauzer have to see a groomer?
    Community Answer
    Once every 2-4 weeks is best. Long-haired dogs require quite a lot of grooming.
  • Question
    How do I trim a Scottie dog?
    Community Answer
    Look up some YouTube videos, or take him to the groomer and ask to watch. I used to groom dogs, and it was a lot of fun. There are some great instructional videos and books out there.
  • Question
    What size clippers should I use to groom a miniature schnauzer?
    Community Answer
    I am not a professional, but I groom our miniature schnauzer Molly. This is what I use: #30 for trimming paws and ears, #10 for trimming the head and body, #7fc for belly hair and a longer winter cut on the body; #5fc used backwards on the body is similar to a number 10 and seems to be easier for me to cut.
  • Question
    How often should I bathe my dog?
    Community Answer
    Bathing your dog once a week would be nice, but you can probably get away with every two weeks if your dog doesn't get very dirty.
  • Question
    How old should my schnauzer be when I start grooming it?
    Community Answer
    Start as soon as your puppy comes home. It’s a wonderful bonding time for you and your puppy. Gentle brushing, including the ears, as well as gently squeezing each nail and rubbing his feet will all prepare him for his first schnauzer clip.
  • Question
    What size comb should I use on my miniature schnauzer?
    Community Answer
    Brush your dog every day. Start with a soft bristle brush, then a tangle/hairball cutter or a small scissor with a round tip, then a soft bristle brush, and then a plastic rat-tail human comb. It goes quickly, and you can do all this on your lap in 5 minutes. Just comb her often and you can go from brushes to comb quickly. Use what you have handy rather than spending on special tools. The dollar store usually has good stuff and then if someone chews something by accident, only $1 destroyed!
  • Question
    How do I shave my miniature schnauzer?
    Community Answer
    Start at the back of the skull and work back toward the tail (with the grain of the hair) just around the spine. As you get along the side of your dog, continue to follow the grain to whatever line you desire. Do this for his chin to chest area too. On his face, you will want to shave against the grain just up to where you want his eyebrows start to grow. This should also be done on the side of his face just up to where you want his beard to start. These are just the basics.
  • Question
    At what angle should I hold the clippers when I cut the nail?
    Community Answer
    You should hold the clippers directly downward, being extremely careful not to cut into the quick (blood supply) of the nail.
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