2 puppies?

Question
We bought a 8 week old miniature schnauzer 2 weeks ago- and have fallen in love with her.   She has a major separation attack when we go anywhere- (though, she isn't throwing up)  We love her so much, we were thinking that she might do better if we also got her brother.  He is the only one left in the litter- and is probably as much as joy as she is.  Would this help her anxiety?

Answer
Raising two puppies simultaneously is a LOT of work, and I think you need to concentrate on the one you currently have rather than doubling your woes.

I have never heard of separation anxiety in a puppy that young; it is normal for them to cry initially until they learn that it won't get them anywhere. You need to start working with her and teach her what is acceptable behavior and what is not. She is a blank slate just waiting for proper input, and if she doesn't get any, she will come up with her own version of life.... and a buck to a donut you won't like it!  

Feed her in her crate so that she learns to love it, and give her a piece of kibble every time you put her in it. NEVER open the crate if she is barking or otherwise making noise or digging at the crate door. Do not have prolonged goodbyes when you leave, and do not greet her when you come home. Just open the crate and get her outside ASAP. And crate her occasionally when you are home so that she understands that there are times when she will be crated (like naptime). When I first introduce my puppies to crates, I usually do it on a day when I am going to be gone for awhile (shopping, etc.). They can cry to their heart's delight, and it won't bother me a bit because I am not there!

Schnauzers are very good at manipulating and getting their own way, and I think this is what is going on with your puppy. Start practicing "Nothing in Life is Free" with her  http://k9deb.com/nilif.htm  and get the paperback book, "How to Raise a Puppy You Can Live With", by Rutherford and Neil. It is far easier to teach correct behavior than it is to break bad habits.

Karen