With their expressive eyebrows, charming beards, and sharp minds, Schnauzers are always ready to take charge. But that go-getter attitude can quickly turn into a training challenge, if you’re not one step ahead. 

Training a Schnauzer isn’t about control — it’s about connection. From keeping their minds engaged to supporting learning through nutrition, there’s plenty you can do to bring out their best without the power struggles. Here's how to work with their instincts to train your pup successfully and strengthen your special bond.  

Read more: Schnauzer breed insights: care, personality & expert tips

Schnauzer temperament and trainability 

Confident, curious, and always up for action, Schnauzers are quick learners, but they’re also known for their independence. These dogs thrive on mental stimulation and structured environments, but without clear boundaries and consistent training, their headstrong nature can surface. 

Their intelligence makes them capable of learning complex cues quickly, but they may question commands if they don’t see the point. They can be vocal and territorial, especially with strangers, making early socialisation and consistent behavioural expectations essential. 

With plenty of positive reinforcement, engaging training games, and a consistent routine, your Schnauzer can become a focused and responsive companion. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

Schnauzers are generally a healthy breed, but there are a few conditions that may impact their training and motivation: 

Pancreatitis 

Some Schnauzers (especially Miniature) can be prone to developing pancreatitis due to high levels of fat in their bloodstream (hyperlipidaemia). It can be a painful condition causing digestive problems and can impact their other organs.  

Dietary management with low-fat, easy to digest, real food diet can be a great way to support your dog’s pancreas health. Maintaining a healthy weight and body condition can also help.   
 
Try this: 
Lyka’s Kangaroo meal contains ultra-low fat, high-quality animal protein and fresh vegetables – highly digestible and delicious. 

Read more: Dog pancreatitis: a holistic guide to pain-free prevention and care 

Skin sensitivities and allergies 

Schnauzers can be prone to skin itchiness and flare-ups from food sensitivities or allergies, making it difficult for them to focus on training. 

Diets containing ingredients rich in anti-inflammatory properties and free from common allergens like chicken, beef, wheat, and dairy can help manage skin issues and promote a healthier coat. 

Try this:  
Lyka’s Hypoallergenic Pro meal is designed nourish your dog’s skin without triggering allergic responses. It’s formulated with goat, a novel protein, and made without common allergens. Great for long-term nourishment or to support elimination trial diets.  

Read more: Dog skin allergies: triggers, symptoms and itch relief treatment (with photos)

Obesity 

Schnauzers have plenty of energy, but without enough movement, or with too much food, they can easily gain weight. Carrying extra kilos can put stress on joints, decrease motivation to exercise and impact your dog’s ability to learn. Over time, excess weight can also affect mood, energy levels and overall health. 

Try this: 
Feeding a real food diet that’s high in protein and full of fresh low-glycaemic index ingredients can help your pup stay lean and energised. Lyka meals are custom portioned for your dog’s ideal weight, made with real food that supports a healthy metabolism and sustained energy. 

Read more: Lyka’s vet guide to healthy dog weight (with charts and video) 

If your Schnauzer seems unusually distracted or reluctant during training, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet to confirm there are no underlying health issues affecting them.  

How real food fuels your Schnauzer’s focus 

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information. 

Schnauzers benefit from: 

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, which have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly. 

• Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, or fish oil), which support brain health and development, memory, and learning. 

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and blueberries to support immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing. 

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.” 

– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)   

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience. 

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to provide complete and balanced nutrition for learning, growth, and everyday health. 

Read more: What do Schnauzers eat? Breed-specific nutrition tips  
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training 

Exercise first for improved focus 

Schnauzers have moderate to high energy levels, and regular physical activity is essential to help them settle and focus during training. Giving them a chance to burn off some energy beforehand reduces distraction and makes learning more effective. 

Try: 

• Brisk walks or jogs (especially for Standard and Giant Schnauzers) 

• Play sessions like tug, fetch, or agility games 

• Scent work or puzzle toys to challenge their sharp minds 

Training tips for Schnauzers 

Training a Schnauzer means tapping into their intelligence while outsmarting their stubborn streak. With patience and a playful approach, it’s incredibly rewarding. 

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best: 

Positive reinforcement  

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your Schnauzer how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship.  
 
Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your pup, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat.  

Find their favourite motivator  

Discovering your dog’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Schnauzer motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you?  
 
Lyka’s Piggy Training Perks are a high-value, low-calorie treat that’s designed to keep your pup motivated and rewarded during training.   

Train at the right time  

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered.  

Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue.  

Stay consistent  

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues.  

Be playful and engaging  

Dogs can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious.  

Watch their body language  

If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another point. 

Training your Schnauzer puppy 

Schnauzer puppies are smart, sassy, and very curious, making early training both exciting and essential. 

What works? 

• A regular toilet routine 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime 

• Early and controlled socialisation with people, dogs, sounds, places, and situations 

Schnauzers are sensitive to harsh corrections, so stick with force-free methods that build trust and confidence. 

Read more: Force-free puppy training: what the experts want you to know   

Training Your Adult Schnauzer 

Just because your Schnauzer’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing learning and mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced. 

This might look like: 

• Reinforcing polite greetings at the door 

• Learning new tricks or games 

• Adjusting to life changes, like moving house 

• Training for mobility support, like using a ramp in senior years 

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning they’re capable of learning at any age. Keep training light and engaging and celebrate progress — no matter how small. 

When to call in a trainer or behaviourist 

Not sure if your Schnauzer’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper? 

A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like: 

• Reactivity 

• Anxiety or phobias 

• Aggression 

• Resource guarding 

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change. 

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.” 

—Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist 

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together 

Training your Schnauzer is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a spirited pup or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together. 

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Schnauzer’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential. 

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Schnauzers across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.