




It is your responsibility to watch the puppy and to properly train him or her.
their puppy by not properly training him or her. The puppy should not be
If you are not an experienced pet owner, you should take your puppy to
classes so your puppy can learn what is needed, and you can learn how to
teach. Puppies cannot be taught everything in one day- training is a
constant process, and it is your responsibility.
Schnauzers are very intelligent dogs, even little puppies, they need to learn
that you are their (“alpha” leader of the pack. :) Remember they are babies
now, but ALWAYS train with gentleness and love. A firm voice with
instruction will go a long way.
It is important for your adorable little miniature schnauzer to know who is
the boss early in your relationship. Do not play rough with your puppy,
doing this will encourage aggressive behavior in him. Biting on your hands
and fingers is also a no-no. Besides those needle sharp teeth hurting and it
being bad behavior it is also challenging your authority (this is the way the
dog thinks). If the puppy wants to bite and chew give him something
appropriate to chew on, a toy or a teething chew. ”Replacement”
should work. If not, a little thump on the nose as he is about to bite with
“NO BITE”command.
There are several other methods also if you have trouble with a stubborn
puppy. For chewing on other objects not appropriate give them a "NO"
command and replace whatever with something the puppy CAN have.
Jumping up on you, biting clothing, etc. Are some of the bad habits that
develop as a puppy and won’t be desirable when he grows older. Don’t let
him do things as a puppy that you don’t want him to do when he is grown.
Your Miniature Schnauzer puppy is ready to learn the simple sit, stay, come,
commands, and of course walking on a leash. This will also help him learn
that you are in control.
Basic obedience class is a must for several reasons. First, you will have a
well mannered, confident dog that everyone will enjoy being around.
Secondly, the time you spend with your schnauzer will develop a special
bond with you. It should be an enjoyable time for both of you. Choose an
instructor who encourages positive reinforcement, understands the mind of
the dog and, respects a dog’s sensitivity.
You also need to decide where you are going to get your puppy from. If
you're set on getting a purebred puppy, you should check out a reputable
breeder. You can also go to a purebred rescue group of your breed of
choice. Rescue dogs are NOT "bad dogs". They are dogs that were
purchased by irresponsible owners who did not understand the kind of
responsibility they were taking on. Some of these dogs were neglected,
abused, or turned over to the rescue group due to their owners moving,
having children, etc. Rescue groups evaluate each dog carefully and make
sure they are suitable to be with you and your lifestyle. A rescue group will
not allow you to adopt a dog from them unless they feel you are a perfect
match with the dog. Rescue dogs will already be spayed or neutered when
you get them, and have up to date shots.
You can also get your dog from your local shelter. Getting a dog from a
shelter is very similar to getting one from a rescue group. They will either
already be spayed/neutered or you will receive a coupon to get it done for
free.
Naming Your Pup
For puppy's call name a one or two syllable name is best. When young it is a
good idea to have a sound the puppy will associate come with, before the
recognition of their name. Such as a whistle. Example Molly, Emma, Sam,
Max, Jake, BJ, etc.
Usually you'll find something that "fits" your special little friend. Have fun
finding a name for your puppy.
Registered names are longer and more detailed. When you choose your
registered name you can look back on your dogs pedigree for name ideas,
AKC will have some names and there are a few dog name books available.
You are only allowed 24 spaces including between words. Pick something
unusual for the registered name, and a call name that fits your puppy's
personality. HAVE FUN.
The First Night
The first night a puppy spends away from his litter mates is often traumatic
for both owner and puppy. Here at Country Home Schnauzers, we have
done all we can to prepare your puppy for this separation, but he is now
away from everything familiar. Every smell, sight, sound, his mother, litter
mates, even his nursery, and bed, food dishes are different, water may
taste different. To your puppy everything has changed.
It is helpful to understand that when a puppy becomes anxious during this
first night, he is reacting naturally, according to separation reflex. In the
wild, when a wolf pup is separated from his pack, he becomes highly
emotional and begins to whine, bark, and howl. This is instinctive behavior
that helps reunite the pup with his pack, which is essential if he is to
survive. This same instinct is at work in your puppy.
The best method to prevent this night trauma and to make things easier for
your puppy and you is let your puppy sleep in your bedroom in a crate, or a
box, tethered next to your bed on an old blanket. We prefer a crate, and
our puppies are accustomed to being in them, but in case you don’t have
one yet: Before you retire, take your puppy outside and give him an
opportunity to eliminate. When you are ready to go to sleep, place the
puppy in the crate right next to you. By doing this you are doing a number
of things: First, it helps the puppy adjust to you as his new pack. As you
sleep, he is hearing your breathing, listening to the sounds you make,
continuously smelling you, and accepts the security of your leadership.
Second, it prevents the puppy from getting up in the night and eliminating
since they will not normally do so where they sleep.
If your puppy whines the first night, just reach down and let him know you
are there, comforting him. If the puppy has been quiet for several hours
and whines, he more than likely has to go out. This should only last a few
nights and your puppy will be sleeping all night long.
Morning, take the puppy out immediately to his area. I would recommend
carrying him or he may not make it all the way out. Sometimes puppies
need to go several times in the morning. Always praise him.
One of the worst things you can do to a new puppy is isolate him, putting
him in the basement or far corner somewhere. We sincerely hope you will
not do this! Your puppy will never be happy left alone.
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