Taking Care of your Miniature Schnauzer at Home
Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Watch their diet, make sure the get plenty of exercise , regularly brush his teeth and if something seems unusual consult your Vet. Unlike us humans we know when we don't feel well so it is up to us to know our dogs and read their body language. Schnauzers are very stoic and do not show us that they are in pain, so if in doubt consult your Vet.
When I moved to a new town first thing I did was to check out the Vet Clinics, I sat outside each one and monitored the clients coming and going. Once I decided which one I wanted to
know more about I made an appointment making sure I was seeing a Senior Vet or one of the
partners. I took my dogs along and when it was our turn we headed off to the consult room,
Now what can I do for you he asked. Nothing was my reply - I'm here to introduce myself and my dogs to you. I think he thought me nuts at the time!! But as I explained I need someone I can rely on to look after my dogs. They cant tell me that there is something wrong but they rely on me to do something if I THINK there is something wrong and thats where YOU come into it. After that visit we developed a wonderful friendship and I always had trust in him to take care of my precious dogs. I hope that you too can develop a wonderful friendship/relationship with your vet.
Routine Care, Diet and Exercise
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Build a routine care into your schedule to help your mini stay healthy. Watch the diet, and make sure they get regular exercise. Brush the teeth at least a couple of times a week.
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Keep your dog's diet consistent with a high quality pet biscuit, and dont feed people food.
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Feed a diet appropriate for their age.
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Exercise your dog regularly, but don't overdue it... Like any athelete build up the distance slowly.
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Have your dog groomed regularly - every 6 - 8 weeks. But in between times make sure that you Brush and Comb at least a couple of times at week.
What to Watch For
Call and make an appointment with your Vet if you notice any of these signs
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Vomiting or Chronic diarrhea
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Weight loss or weight gain
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Lumps, bumps and moles
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Lethargy, mental dullness or excessive sleeping
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Behavioral changes - Fearfulness, agression
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Limping or lameness
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Hair loss
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Coughing or difficulty in breathing
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Inability or straining to urinate
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Blood in stools
Dental Disease
Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth.
Diabetes
If your Mini has diabetes, it means they have a problem regulating how their body processes sugars and carbohydrates. It is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptons include increased eating, drinking and urination, along with weight loss.
Ear Infections
Mini's can get ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Infections can be caused by bacteria, yeast and allergies. If you notice that your pup is scratching or shaking their head or there is a foul odor about the ears or that the ears seem painful to touch, please consult your Vet.
C.J.C. or Congenital Juvenile Cataracts