Miniature Poodle vs Miniature Schnauzer

Non-Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Miniature Schnauzer is the larger breed at 11–20 lbs (males) vs 10–15 lbs for the Miniature Poodle.
  • The Miniature Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Miniature Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMiniature PoodleMiniature Schnauzer
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
GermanyGermany
Height (male)
11–15"12–14"
Height (female)
11–15"12–14"
Weight (male)
10–15 lbs11–20 lbs
Weight (female)
10–15 lbs11–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–18 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)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
High (4/5)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.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Miniature Poodle

The Miniature Poodle is an active, proud, very smart smaller version of the Standard Poodle — circus star of yesteryear. Originally from Germany, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 10–15 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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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Miniature Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes

Miniature Schnauzer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Pancreatitis
  • Diabetes
  • Bladder stones
  • Cataracts