Miniature Schnauzer vs Whippet
Terrier · Small vs Hound · Medium
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
WhippetMedium
An affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too.
Weight: 25–40 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Whippet is the larger breed at 25–40 lbs (males) vs 11–20 lbs for the Miniature Schnauzer.
- • The Miniature Schnauzer sheds less.
- • The Miniature Schnauzer is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Miniature Schnauzer | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Hound |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Germany | England |
Height (male) | 12–14" | 19–22" |
Height (female) | 12–14" | 18–21" |
Weight (male) | 11–20 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11–20 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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 Whippet
The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.
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Miniature Schnauzer health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Pancreatitis
- • Diabetes
- • Bladder stones
- • Cataracts
Whippet health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions
- • Anesthesia sensitivity