Miniature Schnauzer

Terrier · Small

Poodle

Non-Sporting · Medium

Miniature Schnauzer vs Poodle

Side-by-side comparison of the Miniature Schnauzer and Poodle — size, temperament, shedding, trainability, cost, and compatibility ratings.

Quick comparison

Best for families

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on good-with-kids rating

Easier to train

Poodle

Based on trainability rating

Less shedding

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on shedding level

Better for apartments

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on apartment-friendly rating

Lower maintenance

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on grooming needs

Longer lifespan

Poodle

Based on average lifespan

Detailed comparison

Physical traits

Trait	Miniature Schnauzer	Poodle
Size	Small	Medium
Height	12–14″	10–22″
Weight	11–20 lbs	6–70 lbs
Lifespan	12–15 yrs	10–18 yrs
Group	Terrier	Non-Sporting
Coat type	Wiry double coat	Dense, curly, single coat, non-shedding

Temperament & behavior

Trait	Miniature Schnauzer	Poodle
Energy level	High	High
Trainability	High	Very High
Barking level	High	Moderate

Compatibility

Trait	Miniature Schnauzer	Poodle
Good with kids	High	High
Good with dogs	High	High
Good with cats	Moderate	High
Apartment friendly	Very High	High

Care requirements

Trait	Miniature Schnauzer	Poodle
Shedding	Very Low	Very Low
Grooming needs	High	Very High
Daily exercise	30–60 min	40–90 min
Daily food	0.5–1 cups	0.5–3 cups
Annual cost	$1 100–$1 900	$1 200–$2 800

Temperament