Introduction
The decision to bring a miniature schnauzer puppy or giant schnauzer puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding one, but with it comes the responsibility of proper preparation. Preparing for a new puppy involves more than just picking out a cute bed and some toys; it requires thoughtful consideration and planning to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your furry friend. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations to prepare for the arrival of your new schnauzer puppy.
Heads up, this is a long blog post! Educating and preparing prior to your schnauzer coming home will allow you to enjoy those special moments with your pup when he arrives.
Another option is to scroll down to the bottom of this blogpost for a printable pre-puppy come home checklist of essentials as well as tips & tricks guide!
Proofing your home for your schnauzer puppy
Before your bearded one arrives, be sure to remove potentially harmful items such as electrical cords, small objects, and toxic plants & other household items that may be toxic to our furry friends. Check out our blog post : Every Day Hazards – Schnauzers
Designated schnauzer Puppy Space
Use baby gates to restrict access to certain areas until your puppy is potty trained. Set up a comfortable and secure area where your puppy can retreat for rest and relaxation. Include a cozy bed, water and food bowls, and some soft toys.
Here is an example of our “set-up.” This photo was taken in a hotel. Puppy had just traveled with us for 10 hours by car.. While we waited for her new family to arrive, we let her stretch her legs and get some relaxation. Notice the carpet tiles that we laid on top of the hotel carpet. This is for the protection of our pups. Parvo harvests everywhere. Protecting her precious feet from germs was imperative at such a young age as puppies are not fully vaccinated until 16 weeks. If you are traveling with your schnauzer prior to 16 weeks of age we highly recommend covering the floor with carpet tiles when staying in a hotel.
Another important take-away from this photo is the litter box. Again, because of parvo, it is imperative that puppy does not set his feet on the floor in public places. She used her litterbox in the back of our van for potty time throughout her first long road trip. Until 16 weeks of age and fully vaccinated, rely on their litterbox for puppy relief.
Notice the crate on one side of the space- The crate is open with a crate pad for puppy to relax in. The other side is her bathroom, while the middle space is her play area. Also, note the plugged in light behind the play yard. This is a big “no” unless you are supervising 100%. We were with her the entirety of her time in this space.
Back to puppy proofing your home!
Your Schnauzer will want a space to call his own. Using the same set up as seen above will give your schnauzer just enough space to feel comfortable in. If you give pup the run of the house, he will never potty train.
We recommend using a Super Play Yard when your puppy comes home. It is a 2×4 play yard. This gives enough space for litterbox, crate with opened door (with a small bed or pad), as well as a play area. An added benefits is that when your schnauzer earns his roam of the house (is fully potty trained), the Play yard can be reconfigured to a doggy gate.
Any more space than what the play yard offers, a pup must earn. Puppy should not get free roam of the house unless 100 % supervised. Allowing them to roam the house unsupervised is a guarantee to potty training failure. Learn more about potty training tips at our blog post, Puppy Potty Training
Supervised, you can watch puppy for signs that they want to relieve themselves. It is important to note that if you find that puppy did something negative but was not “caught in the act,” punishment is not helpful; they will be confused and not know what they are being punished for.
Crate Training your schnauzer puppy
Whether or not you decide to have your puppy sleep in your bed (some of us are guilty of this!) you will want your puppy to get acquainted with a crate. At 6 weeks of age, we crate our puppies with a sibling at night. This way they aren’t as fearful of the new space.
When thinking of a puppy crate, most people think of a place to sleep. While this is true, it also serves as a space to call their own. You will want a crate small enough for your puppy to understand that it is not a space to potty! If the crate is too big, they will assume that the extra space is for potty. Leaving the crate door open unless it is bedtime will help puppy understand that this is his very own space! Never use their crate for punishment! If you choose to have puppy sleep in his crate, we highly recommend placing the crate in your bedroom for the first few nights. Remove collars and toys unless they are 100% safe (no plastic eyes, etc). We recommend the Midwest iCrate Dog Crate
Health and Veterinary Care:
- Arrange an appointment with your veterinarian prior to pick up
Our puppies come from health tested lines. They have been vetted by our veterinarian, but it is always important for your veterinarian to provide a “check-up” and establish a relationship with your new family member! If you do not yet have an established vet, shop around; just as not all breeders are equal, neither are veterinarians. Ask friends, co-workers or family for recommendations and be sure to check reviews.
- Activate your Trupanion insurance 24 hours prior to pick up
To ensure your new schnauzer is protected against any unexpected accidents when they first go home, we’ve partnered with Trupanion to offer an exclusive benefit of 30 days of medical insurance for your puppy. You will receive an email with more details on how to activate. We do not get a commission for this offer and it doesn’t cost you a penny; no card is required. This partnership is simply to offer the 4 legged we both love and adore added protection! Please activate!
Nutrition and Diet for your schnauzer puppy
- A well-balanced diet is fundamental to your puppy’s growth and development. We’ve done our research and feed our puppies Diamond Puppy Food . If you choose to stay with Diamond, it can be purchased here: Purchase Diamond Puppy Food . If you choose to change foods, do so slowly. Your schnauzer will come with enough Diamond puppy food to slowly make the switch.
- If changing over foods, Dog Food Advisor offers independent, unbiased reviews without influence from pet food companies. There are lots of other good choices available as well. If you choose to move away from Diamond, be sure to check the rating and ingredients. Keep in mind that many veterinarians get commissions to recommend particular foods- this does not make them better.
- Regardless of which food you choose, be sure to sign up for dog food recall notifications at : https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-recall-alerts/ This is a free service, take advantage of it!
Grooming Routine for a schnauzer puppy
Establishing a grooming routine early on will make the process more enjoyable for both you and your puppy. Your new arrival will meet you freshly groomed with nails trimmed. We’ve been establishing grooming routines since 4 weeks old!
- DO NOT take puppy to a groomer until he has completed the entire puppy series of vaccinations. This is usually around 16 weeks of age.
- Start shopping around for a groomer if you plan on someone providing this task for you. Be sure that they require proof of vaccination and that they are clean. Check reviews!
- Until then, enjoy a scruffy schnauzer look or keep an eye out for our upcoming videos on how to groom a giant schnauzer & how to groom a mini
- DO give baths as needed while you are waiting for your puppy to finish his puppy vaccination series
- Refer to the end of this guide for grooming essentials as well as extras
Always introduce grooming gradually, using positive reinforcement to create a positive association
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Emergency Preparedness
Accidents and unexpected situations can happen, so it’s essential to be prepared.
- Create an emergency kit that includes basic first aid supplies, contact information for your veterinarian, and a list of emergency veterinary clinics in your area.
- Familiarize yourself with common signs of illness or distress in puppies.
Establishing a Routine
Puppies thrive on routine and consistency. Establish a daily schedule that includes feeding times, play sessions, and potty breaks. A consistent routine provides structure for your puppy and helps with training and behavior development.
Patience and Understanding
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is a joyful experience, but it comes with its share of challenges. Be patient and understanding as your puppy adjusts to their new environment. Positive reinforcement and gentle guidance will strengthen your bond and create a positive learning environment for your furry friend.
Conclusion
Preparing for a new puppy involves a combination of practical considerations, thoughtful planning, and a whole lot of love. By taking the time to create a safe and nurturing environment, attending to your puppy’s health and well-being, and fostering positive training and socialization experiences, you set the foundation for a happy and harmonious relationship with your new furry family member. Embrace the journey of puppyhood with open arms, and watch as your home transforms into a haven of wagging tails, playful antics, and unconditional love.
Above all, know that this too shall pass. Hard work, consistency, & love will pay off with a lifetime of a well rounded pup
Checklist For Preparing Your Home for your schnauzer puppy
Remove items toxic to puppies both in your home and yard
Remove items such as cords and toys that puppy can choke on or get tangled in
Create a space for your puppy, including a play yard, crate etc as explained above
Have a litterbox and pellets ready if your schnauzer is flying (information on the puppy purchase list below) Airlines do not allow us to bring them. Otherwise, we will provide this
Have essentials (information below) ready for puppy when he arrives
“To Do” Checklist While You Wait For Your Schnauzer Puppy
Find a reputable veterinarian and set an appointment
Activate your Trupanion offer 24 hours prior to picking up your puppy
If you will use a groomer, find a good groomer with 5 star reviews
If you will groom at home, start learning now!
If you are changing foods, start researching options
Read through our blog posts. They are informative – knowledge is power!
Check out Baxter & Bella online dog training and see if it’s a fit. To save 25% instantly, use discount code HB25 at checkout! This is the largest discount they offer!
Purchasing for your Schnauzer Puppy – Our Recommendations
Please note that “As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”
First off, Don’t let this list scare you! A puppy is costly, but the majority of these items are not necessary to have a happy, healthy puppy. The items that are basics have been italicized. Shop around, ask us questions and do what you feel is best for your family! A puppy needs quality food, basic bedding, and a ton of love!
| Category | Link | Notes |
| FOOD & SPACE | ||
| Puppy Play Yard | https://amzn.to/3Pigp2e | |
| Crate | https://amzn.to/3ViZG2C | |
| Diamond Puppy Food | https://amzn.to/43naa3a | Only if not switching food |
| Crate Pad Fits Recommended Crate | https://amzn.to/3vjvmdz | |
| Blankies | https://amzn.to/3TA7KLl | Any blankies will do! |
| Sling | https://amzn.to/43i20sK | To carry puppy in while not fully vaccinated |
| AT HOME | ||
| Dog Bed | https://amzn.to/3IFlAp6 | Any washable bed will do! |
| Fancy Washable Potty Pads | https://amzn.to/3VbvF4T | We do not recommend disposable |
| Basic Washable Potty Pads | https://amzn.to/3wZZk6N | We do not recommend disposable |
| Dirty Dog Laundry Detergent | https://amzn.to/3TxHrVX | We Recommend Washing Puppies Blankets, Potty Pads, Etc using this until they are 6 months of age or older |
| Litter | https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/tractor-supply-pine-pellet-stall-bedding-40-lb | |
| Litter Box (only if flying) | https://amzn.to/3IAzpp6 | |
| SNUGGLE PUPPIES | ||
| Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Biscuit | https://amzn.to/3wLgDsg | |
| Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Black | https://amzn.to/3Pi8jXv | |
| Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Brown | https://amzn.to/3uXQgPy | |
| Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Golden | https://amzn.to/49OehHX | light color will get dirty quicker! |
| TEETHING | ||
| Kong Fillable Pink | https://amzn.to/3vjwf5T | Highly recommend! Buy 2, freeze both with kibble & peanut butter (only while teething, PB is high in fat). Give one to ease pain, have another on hand for when you need to refill and refreeze |
| Kong Fillable Blue | https://amzn.to/43d6T6r | If puppy gnaws on your hand, redircet to kong. It tastes better 😉 |
| TRAINING | ||
| Lucy Dog Food Roll | https://amzn.to/3vjT89g | Cut into TINY pieces use for training only. Chicken not beef |
| Training Cliicker | https://amzn.to/3VcbBiR | Click when you train puppy with food, Eventually remove food and use only clicker |
| One hand Treat Fanny Pack | https://amzn.to/3PiSFv5 | If you opt for another style, be sure that it can be accessed by one hand. Great for leash training. Puppy will follow you because of the smell of treats 🙂 |
| Any non pull comfortable harness | 12-16 weeks of age | |
| Leash | 12-16 weeks of age | Do NOT purchase retractable |
| Dog Poop bag dispenser for leash w/ 135 bags | https://amzn.to/49PDL7L | |
| Walk 2 dogs with 1 leash | https://amzn.to/49Nmig1 | Double the Schnauzer Fun! |
| Online Training – Highly Recommended! | https://www.baxterandbella.com/ | Code HB25 (25% off) |
| GROOMING BASICS | ||
| Greyhound Comb | https://amzn.to/3TnnWye | |
| Slicker Brush | https://amzn.to/3IUIdq5 | |
| Toothbrush | https://amzn.to/4a7USBo | Start with water only |
| Shampoo | https://amzn.to/48RODR6 | 16 oz |
| Shampoo Gallon w/pump | https://amzn.to/3Ty9LY6 | LOVE this Shampoo on all colors of coats. Our “go to” |
| Microfiber Towel | Any will do. Nails don’t get stuck in them like towels | |
| Full Groom at Home (add to the above) | Call us for tips on this! | |
| Dryer | https://amzn.to/4a7sI9F | Not needed right away. If you get a different brand make sure it has adjustable temp and speed |
| Scissors | https://amzn.to/43ehcqQ | Use blunt tip until you are comfortable |
| Basic Clipper | https://amzn.to/3TzofHh | Highly recommended by families |
| Deluxe Clippers | https://amzn.to/490Qzag | What we use. Will last for years |
| Blade Lube For Clippers | https://amzn.to/3IB7CEX | |
| Nail Trimmers | https://amzn.to/49OwgxD | Talk to us and we’ll give you tips on this. Can be scary at first |
| Video While your Away | ||
| Wo pet treat throwing 2 way audio | https://amzn.to/3v8CN7o | We have a professional system but a few families have recommended this |