Grooming a giant schnauzer can seem like a daunting task, particularly because of his massive size and lithe, agile movement. Proper grooming from a young age can set your schnauzer up for a lifetime of health and bonding with you. Begin a grooming routine early so your giant schnauzer can become accustomed to it before he gets large and therefore potentially difficult to restrain. With regular maintenance, your giant schnauzer will have a lustrous, healthful coat and a distinguished appearance.
Step 1
Bathe your schnauzer every two months with a shampoo designed for dogs, being careful not to get shampoo in his eyes, ears or mouth. Lather him up thoroughly to remove any excess dirt or debris. Rinse him with warm or tepid water, and dry with a fresh, clean towel. To maintain a tidy beard, wash it once a week. Fill a spray bottle with warm water mixed with hydrogen peroxide and spray liberally onto your schnauzer's beard before brushing any tangles out.
Step 2
Restrain your giant schnauzer. Because of his size, a giant will be more difficult to keep steady and quiet while working with shears. Place your schnauzer on a grooming table, or choose a quiet room and put him on a leash.
Step 3
Brush your schnauzer with a pin brush to easily remove tangles and distribute the natural oils in his coat. Sweep a slicker brush over his entire body to remove any mats or tangles. Concentrate on the legs, belly and beard, as these areas collect the most dirt and snarl easily.
Step 4
Trim your schnauzer to maintain the breed standard and to keep his coat looking neat. Hold a pair of thinning shears close to his coat, and trim along your schnauzer's neck and back. A traditional schnauzer appearance includes clipping the neck, chest, back and sides, leaving an inch or two above the legs.
Step 5
Trim your schnauzer's face and muzzle to neaten his appearance and highlight his distinct beard and eyebrows. Snip against the growth of the hair from the back of the head. Leave the eyebrow and muzzle untrimmed. To tidy his eyebrow, trim any excess hair so the eyebrow comes to a point at the front of the eye.
Step 6
Thin your giant schnauzer's beard, if necessary. Clip a small amount of excess fur with thinning shears. Stand back and inspect your work periodically to avoid clipping too much fur.
Step 7
Brush your schnauzer's teeth once a week or more, if necessary. Slide a finger brush over your index finger and apply a small amount of toothpaste designed for dogs. Rub his teeth in a circular motion.
Warnings
A razor or electric shaver could cause skin irritation or minor cuts on the animal if done improperly.
Tips
You may opt to shave your entire schnauzer's body to make daily coat maintenance easier. Take your schnauzer to a professional groomer to be shaved.
Items You Will Need
- Dog shampoo
- Towel
- Spray bottle
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Grooming table or leash
- Pin brush
- Slicker brush
- Thinning shears
- Finger toothbrush
- Dog toothpaste
Photo Credits
- miniature schnauzer image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com