Breed comparison
Miniature Schnauzer vs Standard Schnauzer
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Miniature Schnauzer
5Affection with family5
5Good with young children5
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers3
4Playfulness4
3Energy level3
5Trainability5
4Mental stimulation needs5
5Adaptability4
4Watchdog / protective5
5Barking3
3Shedding1
4Coat grooming3
2Drooling3
The biggest differences
- Barking: the Miniature Schnauzer scores 5 out of 5, the Standard Schnauzer 3.
- Shedding: the Miniature Schnauzer scores 3 out of 5, the Standard Schnauzer 1.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, energy level.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Miniature Schnauzer if you live in a smaller home or move often. Pick the Standard Schnauzer if you want less dog hair, you want a quieter dog, you want a more protective watchdog.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.