Points to Consider before Buying a Puppy

• A dog is a commitment for its entire life; this breed's life expectancy is often 14-16 years. It requires a well-balanced diet, appropriate vaccinations, brushing and toenail clipping, ear cleaning, regular dental care, adequate exercise, shelter from the elements, and lots of love and attention. Miniature Schnauzers must be combed and brushed frequently and also need periodic clippering or hand-stripping.

• Young children must be supervised around this breed. If a child hurts or frightens the dog, it may react in the only way it can - by biting or scratching - with potential serious injury to the child.
• This breed tends to be quite healthy, but medical treatment can be expensive, just as for humans. Diseases like parvovirus (common in Southern California) can require hospitalization and intensive care. Hereditary disorders, broken bones, and swallowed objects may require major surgery. If you will balk at spending several hundred dollars in the event of a medical emergency, reconsider getting a dog.
• Dogs must be supervised. Leaving a dog outside unattended all day (whether fenced or chained) will likely result in barking, complaints by neighbors, and possibly fines & civil penalties. Also, if you travel, arrangements must be made to take the dog with you or find satisfactory accomodations for boarding while you are away. This may require extra expenses for health certificates and/or vaccinations.

Read More: Where Should I Look for a Puppy?