The Schnauzer Puppy

Top Ten Signs of Health

Are you thinking about getting a Schnauzer puppy?

Congratulations on your choice, we think that all 3 types are fantastic dogs. Schnauzers are full of character, extremely loyal and, with the right handling, pretty easy to train and eager to please.
They make wonderful pets and companions.

Another bonus is that the Schnauzer is generally regarded as a robust breed of dog.

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Select a Reputable Schnauzer Breeder.
The first step, as we keep saying again and again is to pick the right breeder. If you haven't already read the section on Choosing the Right Breeder, we recommend you do so before going any further.

Puppies usually leave the litter for their new homes when they are 8 weeks or older. (Toy breeds may stay with the mother for up to 12 weeks). Schnauzer puppies - like all dogs - learn the rules of the pack from their mothers. Most bitches continue teaching their offspring the correct manners and dos and don'ts until their puppies are around 8 weeks old.

Breeders who allow their pups to leave before this may be more interested in a quick buck than a long-term puppy placement. Top breeders often have waiting lists. If you want a well-bred Schnauzer puppy, it pays to plan ahead.

OK, so once you've found a good breeder, the next step is to select the ideal Schnauzer puppy.

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Schnauzer Litter Size
Depending on which type of Schnauzer you are getting, litter size will vary. Miniature Schnauzers will generally have a litter of 3 to 5 or 6 puppies. Standard Schnauzers have larger litters with 6 to 10 puppies, while the Giant will have 5 to 8 Schnauzer puppies.

A good breeder with many years experience may well help you decide which Schnauzer puppy will grow up to be best for you and your family. He or she will observe the pups several times a day for the first few weeks of their lives and will have a good idea of each puppy's character and temperament.

You do, however, want to make sure that the puppy you choose is fit and healthy.

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Here are our Top 12 Tips for choosing a healthy puppy -

1. Schnauzers are sturdy dogs and your puppy should have a well fed appearance. They should NOT, however, have a distended abdomen (pot belly) as this can be a sign of worms.


2. The ideal Schnauzer puppy should not be too thin either. You should not be able to see his ribs.


3. The puppy's eyes should be bright and clear with no mucus or discharge.

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4. His nose should be cool, damp and clean with no discharge.


5. The pup's ears should also be clean and again there should be no discharge or dirty build-up.


6. His gums should be clean and a healthy pink color.


7. Check the puppy's bottom to make sure it's clean and there are no signs of diarrhea.

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8. A Schnauzer's coat should be clean and shiny with no signs of ticks or fleas. Red or irritated skin or bald spots could be a sign of infestation or a skin condition.


9. The puppy should breath normally with no coughing or wheezing.


10. When the puppy is distracted, clap or make a noise behind him (not too loud) to make sure he's not deaf.


11. Choose a puppy that is solid in build and moves well without any sign of injury or lameness.


12. Finally,ask to see veterinarian records to make sure your puppy has been wormed and has had his first injections.

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If you are unlucky enough to have health problem with your puppy in the first few months, a reputable breeder will allow you to return the pup.

Also, If you get the Schnauzer puppy home and things don't work out for whatever reason, good breeders should also take the puppy back. Make sure this is the case before you commit.

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Here are a few pages which you should read before selecting your puppy -

Tests to Help You Select the Right Puppy Character

The full Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test

Schnauzer Breeders - intro

How to find Good Miniature Schnauzer Breeders

How to find Good Standard Schnauzer Breeders

How to find Good Giant Schnauzer Breeders

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