When it comes to your Miniature Schnauzer, you want to give them the best chance at optimal health. Feeding your pups, a diet that is rich in minerals, nutrients, and essential vitamins, is the best way to guarantee ultimate wellbeing. A healthy, vet-approved diet will ensure that they are able to develop in the healthiest way possible and that all their vital organs and bodily functions are working effectively. They say that food can either be the greatest medicine (and thus promote bodily health and wellbeing), or the very thing that makes humans and animals sick. Feeding your pooches a high-quality diet that is rich in all good things will boost their immunity, enhance their health, and make them truly feel bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. So, let’s have a look at our top 10 best foods for your precious Miniature Schnauzer. As always, our list comprises a range of products to suit all preferences and monetary needs.
At a Glance: The 10 Best Dog Food for Miniature Schnauzers
| Editor's Pick | Product Name | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Nature's Recipe Small Breed Chicken, Sweet Potato | Buy on Chewy | 4.7 |
| Runner-Up | Royal Canin Miniature Schnauzer Dog Food | Buy on Chewy | 4.8 |
| Best High-Protein Food | Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Northern Woodlands Recipe | Buy on Chewy | 4.7 |
| Best Food for Puppies | Merrick Lil' Plates Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Puppy Food | Buy on Chewy | 5 |
| Best Grain-Free Food | Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal | Buy on Chewy | 4.6 |
| Best Wet Food | Cesar Poultry Variety Pack | Buy on Chewy | 4.8 |
| Best With Probiotics | Purina Pro Plan Adult Small Breed | Buy on Chewy | 4.8 |
| Best Holistic Option | Holistic Select Adult & Puppy Health | Buy on Chewy | 4.6 |
| Best for Senior Dogs | Merrick Lil' Plates Chicken & Sweet Potato | Buy on Chewy | 4.7 |
| Also Consider | Iams Proactive Health Puppy Dry Dog Food | Buy on Chewy | 4.5 |
1 Best Overall: Nature’s Recipe Small Breed Chicken, Sweet Potato
- Grain-free
- Chicken protein
- Free of wheat, corn, soy, artificial flavorants and colors
- Smaller size kibble for smaller dogs
The first pick on our amazing list of best foods for your Miniature Schnauzer is a wonderful pick by Nature’s Recipe. This brand combines amazing quality, with a brilliant price an is a delicious pick that is bound to make your pup feel amazing. This chicken flavoured kibble is specifically tailored for smaller pups and will suit their smaller mouths. The grain free recipe ensures that this food will support overall health and healthy carbohydrates are offered to your pup in the form of sweet potato and pumpkin. These ensure maximum energy and wellbeing and healthy digestion. This pick is free from harmful ingredients and preservatives so you can rest assured that their meal won’t include wheat, corn, soy, poultry by-product, artificial flavourings or colors. The main protein source of this pick is chicken, and this will ensure ultimate muscle health for your pup. Users have praised this brand for being a total hit with even the fussiest of eaters and some have even noted that it’s cleared up skin allergies. As always, consult your vet if you want to heal certain ailments with diet and ensure that you’re choosing high-quality brands that are free from preservatives.
Take a look at our guide on Dog Food for Picky Dogs.
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Canola Meal, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Pumpkin, Natural Flavor, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Dl-methionine, Vitamins (vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (source Of Vitamin C), Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate , D-calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Minerals (ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid (used As A Preservative), Rosemary Extract.
2 Runner-Up: Royal Canin Miniature Schnauzer Dog Food
- Specialized kibble for Miniature Schnauzer’s
- Filled with nutrients and amino acids
- Great for weight control
- Enhances skin barrier
- Keeps skin and coat healthy
Up next is a great pick that’s been specifically created for miniature Schnauzer’s by the powerhouse pet food brand that is Royal Canin. This amazing brand has a stellar reputation and pride themselves on their brilliant and nutritious quality. This pick is perfect for Schnauzer’s who are 10 months and older and the smaller kibble is specifically formulated to meet their chewing and digestive needs. The essential nutrients and minerals are formulated to enhance the skin barrier and promote overall health and wellbeing. The balanced formula is also brilliant for weight control. Since smaller pooches can be prone to picking up weight as they get older, it’s important to keep their weight in check from the get-go. This brand helps you to do just that. Filled with amazing amino acids, this food is also a great choice for keeping their skin and coat health in check. It will ensure ultimate coat health and ensure they retain their vibrant color. Users have commended this product for being a good choice for pups with sensitive stomachs, and for helping certain skin conditions.
You may also like our article on Royal Canin Dog Food.
Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Brown Rice, Oat Groats, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Fat, Corn Gluten Meal, Natural Flavors, Chicory, Salt, Fish Oil, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Vegetable Oil, Psyllium Seed Husk, Potassium Citrate, Dl-Methionine, L-Tyrosine, Calcium Carbonate, Fructooligosaccharides, L-Lysine, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Monocalcium Phosphate, Taurine, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source of Vitamin E), Inositol, Niacin Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin A Acetate, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Magnesium Oxide, Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Trace Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Proteinate], Tea, L-Carnitine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Rosemary Extract, Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid.
3 Best High-Protein Food: Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Northern Woodlands Recipe
- Nutrient-dense food
- Free from preservatives and artificial colors
- US turkey, duck, quail, and vegetables
- Filled with vitamins and minerals
Up next is a nutrient-rich pick by Nutrish Peak. The number one ingredient in this delicious pick is farm-raised US turkey, but it also includes duck and quail to enhance flavor and protein levels. This brand is grain and gluten free and contains no artificial colors or flavours, preservatives, or chicken by-product meal. Rachael Ray’s recipes are based on healthy and wholesome ingredients and each bag is filled with essential vitamins and minerals. Added to the protein rich meal are easily digestible carbohydrates including sweet potato and peas. This pick is thus filled with incredible nutrients that will enhance your Miniature Schnauzer’s energy levels and overall health. Some of the beneficial key minerals this amazing dog food includes are vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, D-Calcium, Calcium Iodate, Manganese, and folic acid. Customers have praised this brand for its great protein levels and their pups being super happy on this diet.
Check out our Rachael Ray Dog Food Review.
Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Whole Dried Potato, Dried Peas, Pea Starch, Sunflower Meal, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Pork Flavor, Whole Flaxseed, Tapioca, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Duck , Quail, Menhaden Fish Meal, Natural Flavor, Salt, Sunflower Oil, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Source of Vitamin C), Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid (Preservative), Rosemary Extract.
4 Best Food For Puppies: Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Puppy Food
- Chicken and potato mix
- Grain and gluten free
- Filled with prebiotics and probiotics
- Small sized kibble for their size
Number 4 on our list is a wonderful Miniature Schnauzer dog food by Merrick. This real chicken and potato mix is a great pick for small breed puppies and is a brilliant choice for easy-digestion. To ensure ultimate health and wellbeing, this pick is grain and gluten free. It is also rich in probiotics and prebiotic fibre to guarantee healthy digestion. Rich in Omega fatty acids, this brand also does wonders for coat and skin health and will ensure that your Miniature Schnauzer’s coat dazzles and sparkles with ultimate vibrancy. The small and crunch kibble is also specifically created to suit their small mouths and works towards cleaning their teeth to remove any plaque or tartar. Dental hygiene is paramount to overall doggy health, and foods that clean their teeth are a great choice in-between professional teeth cleaning and teeth brushing. This pick combines delicious ingredients with great nutritional value and will be a hit for any pup.
Read here our detailed review of Merrick Dog Food.
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Salmon Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat, Dried Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Chicory Root (Source Of Inulin), Sunflower Oil, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Organic Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Choline Chloride, Apples, Blueberries, Salmon Oil, Minerals (Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Cobalt Proteinate, Cobalt Carbonate), Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Niacin, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Mixed Tocopherols For Freshness, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Citric Acid For Freshness, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product. 2B26007
5 Best Grain-Free Food: Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal
- 100 percent grain free mix
- Filled with quality vitamins and minerals
- Turkey and chicken with real vegetables
Number 5 on our top list of best foods for your Miniature Schnauzer is an incredibly nutritious pick by Wellness Core. While this brand is a little pricier than our other picks, it truly reigns supreme when it comes to quality. This model is 100 % grain free and is filled with rich and tasty proteins like turkey and chicken. It also includes real vegetables and top-quality minerals and vitamins. This brand is also free of harmful colorants and preservatives and supports healthy and balanced nutrition and wellbeing. Users have noted that their pups have responded well to this brand, improved coat health, and even lowered anxiety. Of course, if you have medical concerns it is best to consult your vet directly and get an expert opinion on what treatment plan would work best for their unique needs. However, when it comes to awesome quality, this brand is in the know and won’t disappoint. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Deboned Turkey is one of 5 dog food recipes included in our review of Wellness Core Dog Food.
Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Lentils, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Natural Chicken Flavor, Salmon Oil, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement, Choline Chloride, Chicory Root Extract, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
6 Best Wet Food: Cesar Poultry Variety Pack With Real Chicken, Turkey & Duck
- 24 wet food trays
- Array of flavors from poultry to steak
- Made in the USA
- Grain-free
Lucky number 7 on our list is a wonderful pick by Cesar Gourmet. When it comes to tastiness and great quality, this brand is seriously in the know. Unlike our other dry varieties, Cesar’s Gourmet offers your pup a wet food option. This pick offers your Miniature Schnauzer 24 trays of wet dog food and to keep things interesting, they come in an array of four flavors. They have different cases that have different flavors. The poultry pick includes duck, grilled chicken, oven roasted chicken, and turkey. However, there are other options with steak, the trays are well sealed to ensure ultimate freshness and have an easy peel-away lid. Adding wet food to your pups’ diet can be a good treat and keep things exciting for them and this pick is grain-free for added health. Cesar also offers a kibble pick for your pup. When decided what to feed them, chat to your vet and find the healthiest option for their unique needs and development. Cesar Poultry Variety Pack with Real Chicken is one of 5 dog food recipes mentioned in our Cesar Dog Food Review.
Turkey Recipe: Turkey, Chicken Liver, Beef Lung, Chicken Broth, Water, Pork By-Products, Chicken Heart, Calcium Carbonate, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Carrageenan, Potassium Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Magnesium Proteinate, Dried Yam, DL-Methionine, Salt, Erythorbic Acid (Preservative), Turkey Flavor, Guar Gum, Natural Flavor, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Monocalcium Phosphate, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Sodium Nitrite (For Color Retention), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Potassium Iodide.
7 Best With Probiotics: Purina Pro Plan Adult Small Breed Chicken & Rice Formula
- Small and toy breed formula
- Chicken as the number 1 ingredient
- Rich in minerals like calcium and phosphorous
- Natural pre-biotics found in wheat bran
- Kibble to support dental health
Purina Pro Plan is the perfect pick for smaller pups and toy breeds and is a really a great option on our list of best foods for your Miniature Schnauzer. The specialized nutrition takes care of their unique needs and this dry kibble, with chicken as its number one ingredient, is a great pick for cleaning their teeth and enhancing dental health. The chicken is also a great choice in terms of protein and will work towards helping their development and growth. This product is also rich in other important minerals and vitamins, including calcium, and phosphorous. It also has natural pre-biotic fibre, sourced from wheat bran to aid digestion. This brand is thus not grain free. Users have expressed their happiness with this product, noting that it’s been a hit with picky eaters and those with sensitive stomachs.
Read here our detailed review of Purina Pro Plan Dog Food.
Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Poultry By-Product Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Corn Germ Meal, Fish Meal, Dried Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Wheat Bran, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7)], Choline Chloride, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Minerals [Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite], L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Vitamin C), Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Garlic Oil. I445020.
8 Best Holistic Option: Holistic Select Adult & Puppy Salmon, Anchovy & Sardine Meal
- Dry dog food kibble
- Salmon, anchovies, and sardines
- Filled with natural fibre and digestive enzymes
- Free from grain, wheat, artificial flavors and colorants
Number 9 on our amazing list of best foods for your Miniature Schnauzer is a delightful pick by Holistic Select. This grain-free diet offers ultimate balance to your pup’s diet and is rich in proteins such as sardines, anchovies, and salmon which will ensure ultimate development and energy. This pick is rich in natural fibre to aid digestive health, but is free of grains, wheat, artificial colors, preservatives, meat by-products, and flavorants. Live yogurt cultures and digestive enzymes also support digestive health. While this food for your Miniature Schnauzer is a brilliant pick, it is a little pricier than our other options. Nonetheless, users have commended it on its ability to support skin health and alleviate certain skin conditions. It’s also a great option if you want to enhance the shine and vibrancy of their coats.
Salmon, Anchovy and Sardine Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Menhaden Fish Meal, Dried Ground Potatoes, Canola Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Pea Fiber, Flaxseed, Pumpkin, Natural Flavor, Cranberries, Apples, Brewers Dried Yeast, Salt, Papayas, Choline Chloride, Blueberries, Pomegranates, Vitamin E Supplement, Inulin, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Ground Cinnamon, Ground Fennel, Ground Peppermint, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Dried Lactobacillus bulgaricus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus thermophilus Fermentation Product, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma reesei Fermentation Product, Dried Rhizopus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
9 Best For Senior Dogs: Merrick Lil’ Plates Chicken & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
- Specialized for senior dogs
- Kibble to help clean teeth
- Rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Chicken and sweet potato
The final pick on our best food list for your Miniature Schnauzer is an amazing choice by Merrick. This particular item is specifically tailored for senior pups, who have unique dietary needs as they enter their twilight years. This dry kibble is grain-free and made with real chicken and sweet potato for ultimate health and wellbeing. It is also rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to ensure ultimate skin health and brain function. The crunchy kibble is a great pick for cleaning teeth too. Dental hygiene is paramount to your dog’s health and a good diet can support the cleaning of their teeth, along with regular brushing and medical cleans. This brand combines great quality with value and will certainly be a hit for your senior pup. Nonetheless, senior dogs have unique needs and it is always good to check in with your vet if you’re wanting to change their diet or treat certain conditions.
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas, Chicken Fat, Salmon Meal, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Chicory Root (Source Of Inulin), Salmon Oil, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Sunflower Oil, L- Carnitine, Organic Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Choline Chloride, Apples, Blueberries, Minerals (Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Cobalt Proteinate, Cobalt Carbonate), Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Mixed Tocopherols For Freshness, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Niacin, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Citric Acid For Freshness, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product. 2B26008
10 Also Consider: Iams Proactive Health Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Number 1 ingredient is chicken
- Specifically formulated for puppy development
- Smaller kibble for easier chewing
- Filled with Omega 3 for brain power and skin health
Up next on our list is an amazing dog food option for your Miniature Schnauzer by the popular brand that is Iams. When it comes to your pup, this brand is in the know and certainly won’t disappoint. This product is specifically tailored to your puppy’s needs and thus takes into account their unique developmental stages. With its number 1 ingredient being chicken, this food is a perfect source of protein and will ensure brilliant development. It is also full of Omega 3 fatty acids and these are great for boosting brain power and skin and coat health. The kibble has also been specially created for smaller pups and will thus support their chewing and digestion. As always consult your vet when it comes to tailoring a specific diet for your pup and their needs, and always chat to them about what healthy vegetables and proteins you can add to their diet for maximum health and wellbeing.
You may also like our Iams Dog Food Review.
Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Natural Flavor, Fish Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Brewers Yeast, Dried Egg Product, Salt, Monosodium Phosphate, Carrot, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Caramel Color, Choline Chloride, Fructooligosaccharides, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (source of Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin, Riboflavin Supplement (source of Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (source of Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide) Mixed Tocopherols, Rosemary Extract.
Best Dog Food for Miniature Schnauzers Buying Guide
Ingredients to Look for in a Schnauzer Dog Food
When it comes to choosing dog food, you want to opt for high quality ingredients and a brand that has been approved by professionals. This will ensure that the food is not filled with harmful preservatives and colorants or by-products with little regulation. Key ingredients to look out for when finding the perfect food for your Miniature schnauzer include:
- High quality protein to build muscle and ensure ultimate energy and wellbeing.
- Antioxidants to promote cell health and boosted immunity
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
- Healthy carbohydrates like sweet potato, peas, pumpkin, or butternut
- Essential A, B, C, and D vitamins
Miniature Schnauzer Diet and Nutrition
Food to Avoid Feeding Your Miniature Schnauzer
Avoid feeding your Miniature schnauzer processed foods that are not created for dogs. Processed food and junk food contain harmful additives and preservatives that could make your dog sick and lead to disease and obesity. Only feed them vet-formulated foods or home-cooked meals that are unprocessed (such as vegetables and lean meats). Do not feed them chocolate as this is highly poisonous and refrain from giving them ready-made meals. Opt for clean foods that are in their natural state and food that is specifically made for dogs. If in doubt, consult your vet for an expert opinion. Some vegetables like onions are also harmful to dogs, and thus you need to do your research before feeding them home-made food.
Common Health Problems With Mini Schnauzers – How Diet Can Help Them
Like all pure-bred pups, Miniature Schnauzer’s can be susceptible to certain medical issues. However, having an awareness of what they are can help you to spot the signs and treat them quickly. Some common conditions can be supported by a better diet, these include.
Digestive Issues
Some Schnazuer’s might develop digestive issues and these could cause nausea, tummy upset, or vomiting. Some pups might also develop a condition known as pancreatitis which is an inflammation of the pancreas. In such cases, they will need to be given a very simple and bland diet. Opt for a specialist diet and consult your vet about the best food to feed them. Diet is key to managing any digestive condition and can thus be their greatest support.
Obesity
Obesity is always a concern in smaller breeds and the chances of it increase as they get older. However, a well-balanced and nutritious diet that is coupled with plenty of exercise can keep obesity away. Ensure that you are following the correct feeding guidelines for your dog’s food and unique food and ensure that they get daily exercise. Obesity can lead to joint and mobility issues and also put pressure on their vital organs. It is thus imperative to keep your pup at a healthy weight and to feed them only vet-approved foods or healthy home-cooked meals. Treats should be given in moderation.
Skin Allergies
Some Miniature Schnauzers are prone to skin allergies and diet can go a long way in alleviating their condition. Opt for hypoallergenic diets and consult your vet about possible treatment options.
Our Top Pick
While we love all our food picks for your Miniature Schnauzer, we have opted for this amazing product by Nature’s Recipe as our top pick. This food combines wonderful quality, with awesome value, and is a delightful choice that is sure to make your pup’s day. This chicken flavored dry food is tailored for smaller dogs and will aid in chewing and digestion. The grain-free recipe ensures that this food will support development. Healthy carbohydrates are offered to your pup in the form of sweet potato and pumpkin. This pick is free from preservatives and does not include wheat, corn, soy, poultry by-product, artificial flavorings or colors. Users have commended this food for being a total success with even the fussiest of pooches and some have even noted that it’s cleared up skin allergies. As always, consult your vet if you want to heal certain ailments with diet and ensure that you’re choosing a vet-approved food that is free from harmful preservatives and grains. Opt for wholesome foods that will support ultimate health and development.
Sources:
- Tori Houle, The Miniature Schnauzer, Pet Health Network
- Miniature Schnauzer, PetMD
Frequently Asked Questions
An adult Miniature Schnauzer of average size should usually be fed about half a cup of high-quality dry dog food twice a day. However, you should always follow the particular feeding instructions of your chosen brand and go on their stipulations and the weight of your dog. Puppies will often need more food as their bodies are growing rapidly. Always ensure that you opt for high quality ingredients and a brand that is vet approved. You can also supplement dry food with home-cooked lean meats and vegetables. Always chat to your vet to ensure that your pub is getting a balanced diet and that all their health and nutrition needs are being optimally met.
Adult dogs usually do well with being fed twice a day. You can feed your pup once in the morning and once in the evening. Follow the feeding guide on your specific brand of food and remember that puppies will often need to be fed 3 or 4 times a day as they are still growing and thus require more nutrients.
You can feed your Miniature Schnauzer an array of healthy and delicious vegetables to enhance their health and add variety into their diet. Some of the most nutritional and beneficial veggies include:
- Leafy greens like spinach, kale, chard, or and bok choy as these contain a very high source of vitamin K, C, and A.
- Celery – A great source of Vitamins A, C, and K and can even help with smelly breath! Now that’s a bonus.
- Carrots are great for skin health and eyesight. They have also been shown to strengthen the immune system.
- A little slice of apple or watermelon can also be a healthy treat. Since they contain sugar they should be given in moderation, but they’re a great source of water and beneficial vitamins. Use them in training and to reward great behavior.
- Green beans or peas can help settle upset stomachs and are a great pick to mix with rice and a yummy protein. They are also rich in B vitamins, iron, and Omega 3.
I have a new miniature schnauzer puppy that’s nine weeks old. I want to make sure she has all the best food possible what would you recommend