Miniature Schnauzer vs Norfolk Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small
Miniature SchnauzerSmall
A friendly, smart, obedient ratter — the eyebrowed, bearded German farm dog scaled down for family life.
Weight: 11–20 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Norfolk TerrierSmall
A fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter.
Weight: 11–12 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Quick take
- • Miniature Schnauzer is the larger breed at 11–20 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Miniature Schnauzer | Norfolk Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | Germany | England |
Height (male) | 12–14" | 9–10" |
Height (female) | 12–14" | 9–10" |
Weight (male) | 11–20 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11–20 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–16 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. | 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. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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.
About the Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–12 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, alert, gregarious.
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Miniature Schnauzer health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Pancreatitis
- • Diabetes
- • Bladder stones
- • Cataracts
Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems