Schnoodle Dog – Your Complete Guide to the Schnauzer Poodle Mix Breed

Schnoodle FAQs

Our readers’ most popular and frequently asked questions about the Schnoodle.

• What health issues do Schnoodles have?
• Are Schnoodles good family dogs?
• Are Schnoodles aggressive?

Schnoodle: Breed At A Glance

• Popularity: Poodles are number 7, Miniature Schnauzers are 19, and Giant Schnauzers 78 on the AKC’s list of most popular breeds
• Purpose: Companion
• Weight: Depending on the size of the parent breeds, anywhere from 4-20 pounds for a smaller Schnoodle, and up to 85 pounds if crossed with a Giant Schnauzer
• Temperament: Intelligent, aloof with strangers, loving with family

Schnoodle Breed Review: Contents

• History and original purpose of the Schnoodle
• Fun facts about Schnoodles
• Schnoodle appearance
• Schnoodle temperament
• Training and exercising your Schnoodle
• Schnoodle health and care
• Do Schnoodles make good family pets?
• Rescuing a Schnoodle
• Finding a Schnoodle puppy
• Raising a Schnoodle puppy
• Schnoodle products and accessories

History And Original Purpose Of The Schnoodle

The Schnauzer Poodle mix is one of the Poodle mixes that people seek for its low-shedding coat and teddy bear qualities.

One look at a cute and fluffy Miniature Schnauzer Poodle mix, and you’ll understand why they’re known as teddy bear Schnoodle dogs!

As the mix is still climbing in popularity, not many specifics are known about the original time and purpose when the Schnoodle first came on the scene. However, the cross was likely first developed in the 1980s in the United States.

The goal was to achieve the perfect dog for people who suffer from allergies to dog dander, as well as those who prefer not to have dog hair coating their clothing and home.

As the Poodle is often considered a “hypoallergenic” breed, it’s no wonder that this cross came about!

We’ll discuss the coat of the Schnoodle dog in more detail later on.

Fun Facts About Schnoodles

The term “Schnoodle” is amusing in and of itself. But the Schnauzer Poodle mix also basks in the name “Schnoodle Doodle!”

“Doodle” is a common term for any of the many Poodle mixes.

Schnoodles come from two very distinguished and popular breeds. Interestingly, although many think of the Poodle as being French in origin, the breed actually got its start in Germany.

That means that both of the Schnoodle’s parent breeds originated in Germany, as the Schnauzer is commonly known to be German in origin. “Schnauze” is even a German word, meaning muzzle or snout.

Schnoodle Appearance

The basic appearance of this mixed breed can be hard to pinpoint. This is because there is so much potential for variety!

This hybrid comes in many sizes, as it is achieved by breeding a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle with a Miniature, Standard, or Giant Schnauzer!

This may get a little bit technical, so we’ll break it down for you.

Schnoodle Size Range

To get an idea of the size range that an adult Schnoodle dog may fall into, we’ve listed the average wither height and body weight that the AKC accepts for each type of Schnauzer and Poodle below.

Poodle:

• Toy: 10 inches and under, 4-6 pounds
• Miniature: 10-15 inches, 10-15 pounds
• Standard: 15 + inches, 40-60 pounds

Schnauzer:

• Miniature: 12-14 inches, 11-20 pounds
• Standard: 17.5-19.5 inches, 35-50 pounds
• Giant: 23.5-27.5 inches, 55-85 pounds

So What Can You Expect?

With the above data in mind, let’s take a look at the expected sizes of some Schnoodle crosses.

• Toy Schnoodle (a Toy Poodle crossed with a Miniature Schnauzer) may reach 10-14 inches tall and 4-10 pounds.
• Miniature Schnoodle (a Miniature Schnauzer crossed with a Miniature Poodle) might reach 14 or 15 inches tall and 10-20 pounds.
• Standard Schnoodle (a Standard Poodle crossed with a Standard Schnauzer) could reach 15-19.5 inches tall and 35-60 pounds.
• Giant Schnauzer Poodle mix (a Standard Poodle crossed with a Giant Schnauzer) could reach 15-27.5 inches tall and 40-85 pounds.

There may be more unpredictability in size if, say, you cross an F1 mini Schnoodle with an F2 or later Giant Schnoodle.

Schnoodle Coat Colors

These hybrids are usually solid-colored and sometimes have a mask, markings, or points in black or white.

With the Poodle’s ten acceptable coat colors and the Schnauzer’s three acceptable coat colors, there are many possibilities for Schnoodle coat colors.

Even more colors are possible when the parent stock have non-standard coat colors – parti-colored Schnoodles may be possible in these cases.

Their coat coloring may be easier to predict as later generations are bred with similar generations and back with Poodles (hence the development of the popular apricot

613).

Colors

Here are the possible coat colors:

• Apricot
• Black
• Black and silver
• Salt and pepper (mix of white and black hairs)
• Blue
• Brown
• Cream
• Gray
• Red
• Silver
• Silver beige
• White

Schnoodle Coat Type

Unlike other Doodles, Schnoodles aren’t sought after for a “fleece” or Poodle-like coat. In fact, the teddy bear Schnoodle dog, or one with a soft and fluffy but not necessarily curled coat (an equal mix of the Schnauzer and Poodle’s coats), is highly sought after.

Achieving the teddy bear coat requires careful breeding, though, especially when the cross is also desired for one breed’s coat and the other breed’s temperament.

When you cross a purebred Poodle with a purebred dog which does not have a curled coat, such as the Schnauzer, the offspring (F1 generation) may or may not have a curly coat.

For the Schnoodle cross, an F1 puppy’s temperament may either reflect the Schnauzer’s or the Poodle’s temperament. With a first-generation cross like this, it’s hard to predict exactly how the puppies will turn out.

• Crossing an F1 Schnoodle with a Poodle produces offspring known as the F1b generation. They are more likely to have a Poodle-like coat and may exhibit more Poodle-like tendencies.
• Crossing two F1 Schnoodles produces offspring known as the F2 generation. These typically produce a happy mix of both Schnauzers and Poodles, as far as looks and coat types.
• Finally, crossing an F1 Schnoodle with an F1b Schnoodle produces offspring known as the F2b generation. These are basically 2/3 Poodle and 1/3 Schnauzer. They are equally likely to have the Poodle’s curly coat or the Schnauzer’s loose and wavy coat.

You can view a detailed explanation of the different generations of Schnoodles outlined by Schnoodle breeder Sherri Smeraglia here.

Schnoodle Temperament

As mentioned above, temperament will vary depending on the dog and on the generation. And regardless of their generation, every dog will also have their own individual quirks and mannerisms.

Selecting a specific generation of Schnoodle cross may help you get a puppy with breed-specific looks and tendencies. At the end of the day, though, you cannot predict every trait with 100% accuracy.

To get a general understanding of a Schnauzer and Poodle mix’s temperament, let’s talk about the expected temperaments of Schnauzers and Poodles.

Schnauzer Temperament

Schnauzers of all sizes are excellent with children and people in general. They are extremely active dogs who are outgoing and love to run and play.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends that you supervise play time between Giant Schnauzers and children or other dogs to ensure that the play doesn’t become too rough.

Although Schnauzers are known to be loyal dogs, you generally don’t have to worry about a Schnauzer being aggressive with people. However, it’s always best to socialize Schnauzer puppies with people and other animals as a part of their overall training.

Miniature Schnauzers can be a little noisy, thanks to their alert personalities.

Poodle Temperament

Some Poodles may not be as outgoing as Schnauzers, but contrary to popular belief, they aren’t all shy and prone to biting.

There is a stereotype which suggests that Miniature and Toy Poodles are especially prone to biting. But realistically, any Poodle could display this tendency.

Because of their sometimes shy personalities, it’s important that you familiarize a Poodle with new faces and smells well before adulthood. This will help prevent their instinct to guard you or to nip at strange hands.

Like Schnauzers, all classes of Poodles are very active dogs who love stimulating activities that keep their bodies and brains moving. They do not take kindly to being bored.

Poodles also do not like being left out of activities with you or being crated for long periods. They are intelligent, working dogs who want to have something to do or play with, which is why many of them are amazing in the show pen!

Schnauzer Poodle Mix Temperament

Combining these two personalities is somewhat up to chance. But since both of these breeds do have some things in common, you can expect that your own Schnoodle dog will exhibit certain traits.

Your hybrid will be intelligent and probably very active.

With good socialization and training, he will also likely be friendly with all sorts of people and get along well with children and other animals.

Training And Exercising Your Schnoodle

If you do not have the space or time for a high-energy dog, then a Schnoodle is not for you.

These dogs need a job to do or plenty of space to run and play in order to be happy and to stay out of trouble. Schnoodles may also play on the rough side. Make sure that she knows what “down” or “off” means.

As neither Schnauzers nor Poodles appreciate being bored, a Schnoodle may be likely to develop bad habits if you do not give her adequate attention. You’ll also benefit from a fenced-in yard, as a Schnoodle may be tempted to chase after the wild life that she encounters!

And again, these dogs require socialization with other dogs, children, and adults to prevent possible territorial behavior.

For more guidance on specifics, check out our articles on crate and potty training for Schnoodle puppies.

Schnoodle Health And Care

Like any dog, the Schnauzer Poodle mix may be predisposed to health conditions due to their genetic makeup and/or age.

Genetically speaking, this mixed breed are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, patellar luxation, epilepsy, and several heart and liver disorders.

To learn more about the diseases and health conditions which may affect Schnauzers, refer to our article on Miniature Schnauzers. To learn more about the diseases and health conditions which may affect Poodles, refer to our articles on Standard Poodles and Toy Poodles.

Furthermore, both Schnauzers and Poodles can become overweight easily, so a healthy diet and plenty of exercise will be required to keep the dog fit and the joints fluid!

By and large, though, Schnoodles can be expected to be fairly healthy dogs. However, health testing is imperative for any breed or mixed breed. To learn more about what health tests are available and recommended, visit the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals.

Poodles and Schnauzers have a generally similar life expectancy, with about 10-12 years for the larger sizes and closer to 14 for smaller. You can expect your mix to reach somewhere within the averages of the parent breeds, depending on size.

Schnoodle Grooming And Care

Schnoodles are often advertised as non-shedding (hypoallergenic), but is this true? Is a Schnoodle hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs shed, even if in very small amounts. You can learn more facts and myths regarding non-shedding dogs in our article about hypoallergenic dogs.

However, we can confidently say that this mix will be a low-shedder. Both Poodles and Schnauzers shed minimally.

A Schnoodle may inherit its Schnauzer parent’s wiry, hard, and medium-length double-coat, or its Poodle parent’s long and thick curly or wavy coat. Or it may have a wavy coat that falls somewhere in between.

Regardless of a Schnoodle’s breeding, his coat will require some maintenance. Hybrids with a Schnauzer’s coat will require a weekly brushing to keep the coat smooth. If your mix has a Poodle’s curls, which are kept longer, she will require daily combing, as well as a trip to the groomer once per month to prevent matting.

Schnoodles with the “teddy bear” coat may need more or less of the grooming that we described above.

With that being said, Schnoodle haircuts don’t have to be super short. Keeping curls or waves in check, though, will help to prevent severe matting or tangling.

Do Schnoodles Make Good Family Pets?

Due to the typical personality traits of the parent breeds, Schnoodles can be recommended as family pets. However, it must be emphasized that all dogs need socialization and training.

For a giant Schnoodle, make sure to supervise smaller children to keep them from getting accidentally knocked over or involved in play that gets a little too rough.

Likewise, for a mini Schnoodle, ensure that small children treat the little dog carefully.

Remember that this breed is going to be very active and will want to be with his family. If no one is at home for a large part of each day, or if the dog will be kept in a small area without room to run and play, this is not the breed for you.

Rescuing A Schnoodle

We always recommend that people consider rescuing a dog. This has several benefits, both to the potential owner and to the dog herself.

Firstly, it gives you the chance to see what the dog’s temperament will be when she is full grown. This can be especially important with a mix breed like the Schnoodle, as some personality traits may be in doubt.

Secondly, rescuing or adopting a dog from a shelter is almost always cheaper by far than buying from a breeder.

And last but certainly not least, bringing a rescue dog home gives her another chance at life with a loving family.

If you’re interested in finding out more about rescuing a Schnoodle, take a look at the list of Schnoodle rescue organizations here.

Finding A Schnoodle Puppy

Before you purchase a Schnauzer Poodle puppy, carefully research Schnoodle breeders so that you choose responsibly. Responsible breeders use genetic testing to prevent the passage of undesired traits, and they keep their breeding stock at a good weight and in clean conditions.

If a breeder is reluctant to show you all around their facility, stay away. They may be keeping their stock in deplorable conditions. Likewise, make sure to avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and puppy mills.

What is the going rate for Schnauzer Poodle mix puppies? Schnoodle puppy prices vary based on the puppy’s generation, their coat characteristics, how many puppies are available, and how valuable the parents are to the breeder.

The following are estimates of Schnoodle price based on sizes:

• Miniature Schnoodle: about $1,000
• Standard Schnoodle: about $1,300
• Giant Schnoodle: about $1,600

For later generations of Schnoodles, you can probably expect the above prices to be on the low side, as more work has been done to achieve the “perfect” dog.

Mixes like this may be harder to find at times, but they are increasing in popularity. For more information on finding a puppy, check out our guide here.

Raising A Schnoodle Puppy

Caring for a vulnerable puppy is a big responsibility. There are some great guides to help you with all aspects of puppy care and training.

You’ll find them listed on our Schnoodle puppy page.

Schnoodle Products And Accessories

These dogs may need some very specific grooming tools, depending on the type of coat they have. Here are some of our recommended products.

• Dog grooming supplies
• Best brushes for Poodle coats

Pros And Cons of Getting A Schnoodle

Cons:

• May be a little stand-offish due to Poodle parent
• Will definitely need socialization
• Very active, will need lots of exercise

Pros:

• Perfect companion for an active owner
• Very loyal and loving to family
• Large range of sizes

Comparing The Schnoodle With Other Breeds

Mixed breeds are ever more popular, and there seems to be no end to the mixes available. Poodles in particular are especially common as a contributing parent.

Some of our favorite other Poodle mixes include the Goldendoodle and the Husky Poodle. Both of these are friendly, personable, and adorable!

For more information on these and other Poodle mixes, visit our article here.

Similar Breeds

If you’re not entirely sold on the idea of a Schnoodle for some reason or another, you don’t have to go back to the drawing board.

Here are some similar mixes to consider.

• Newfypoo
• Great Dane Poodle mix
• Dalmadoodle
• Lagotto Romagnolo

Schnoodle Breed Rescues

There aren’t many rescues that are specifically dedicated to Schnoodles. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t Schnoodles out there waiting to be rescued!

We’ve compiled a list of some rescues for the parent breeds, located in the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada. These are great places to start your great Schnoodle search.

• Schnoodle Rescue
• Poodle Network UK
• Standard Poodles In Need
• Australian Schnauzer Rescue
• Standard Schnauzer Club

Have you come across any other rescues for Schnoodles or the parent breeds? Leave us a comment and let us know!

References And Resources

• Gough A, Thomas A, O’Neill D. 2018 Breed Predispositions to Disease In Dogs and Cats. Wiley Blackwell
• O’Neill et al. 2013. Longevity and Mortality of Owned Dogs In England. The Veterinary Journal
• Adams VJ, et al. 2010. Results of a Survey of UK Purebred Dogs. Journal of Small Animal Practice.
• Schalamon et al. 2006. Analysis of Dog Bites In Children Who Are Younger Than 17 Years. Pediatrics
• Duffy D et al. Breed differences in canine aggression. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 2008
• Strain G. Deafness prevalence and pigmentation and gender associations in dog breeds at risk. The Veterinary Journal 2004
• Packer et al. 2015. Impact of Facial Conformation On Canine Health. PlosOne
• Gross et al. Skin Diseases of the Dog and Cat: Clinical and Histopathologic Diagnosis. Blackwell Science Ltd. 2005.