Border Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Miniature Schnauzer is the larger breed at 11–20 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Miniature Schnauzer sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierMiniature Schnauzer
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
13–15"12–14"
Height (female)
13–15"12–14"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs11–20 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs11–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
wirehairedwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

About the Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly, smart, obedient ratter — the eyebrowed, bearded German farm dog scaled down for family life. Originally from Germany, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, obedient.

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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Miniature Schnauzer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Pancreatitis
  • Diabetes
  • Bladder stones
  • Cataracts