The Schnauzer Club of Great Britain

promoting and safeguarding the interests of Schnauzers, Miniature Schnauzers and Giant Schnauzers since 1929

Frequently Asked Questions

	How much grooming is required?
	How long can they be left on their own?
	Do they like water?
	Do they fetch sticks?
	Are they good at agility?
	How do I pick a good puppy from a litter?
	Should I strip or clip?
	Are they good for people who suffer with allergies?
	Do they get on with cats?

Q	How much grooming is required?
A	For a pet Schnauzer, it should be fully groomed usually every 8 to 12 weeks. It should be brushed and combed at least twice a week.

Q	How long can they be left on their own?
A	No more than 4 or 5 hours except in unforeseen circumstances.

Q	Do they like water?
A	They will drink it! But as for swimming in it, most will go out of their way to walk around a puddle!

Q	Do they fetch sticks?
A	You should never throw a stick for a dog as this can cause serious or fatal injuries. Some will love a game with a ball others say "you threw it, you get it!"

Q	Are they good at agility?
A	The Miniatures are very well suited to agility. Standards and Giants will enjoy it too, but might not be as fast as the Border Collies in their group.

Q	How do I pick a good puppy from a litter?
A	It is really a lottery picking a puppy, as they are so young and can change considerably, mainly they should be robust and outgoing.

Q	Should I strip or clip?
A	If you are able to hand strip your dog it will look smarter, the coat will be a coarse texture and it is protects the dog from weather conditions. If you really can't strip or find someone to do it for you, then to keep it smart and tangle free it should be clipped.

Q	Are they good for people who suffer with allergies?
A	Schnauzers do not moult. Because of this sufferers of certain types of allergy may not be affected by being around a Schnauzer. We recommend that you spend time with the dogs before considering a purchase.

Q	Do they get on with cats?
A	When introduced to cats as a puppy then usually they get on well with them. Although the cat may not like the idea.