Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer. Final Verdict on Which one is a Better Pet.

Quick Links: Table of Contents

Goldendoodle Versus Miniature Schnauzer: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Goldendoodle and for the Miniature Schnauzer. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Goldendoodle or the Miniature Schnauzer.

Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer

Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer: Overview

A very important difference between the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Goldendoodle is a large-sized dog while the Miniature Schnauzer is a small-sized dog.

Furthermore, the Goldendoodle belongs to the Hybrid Dogs group. Hybrid Dogs are the offspring of 2 or more known, but different, dog breeds.

On the other hand, the Miniature Schnauzer belongs to the Terrier Dogs group. Terrier Dogs were originally bred to go underground to hunt rodents and other small wild animals (vermin). Terriers come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, but all terriers are energetic, highly intelligent, and territorial. Terries also have the tendency to escape. They require a securely fenced yard.

Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Goldendoodle to the Miniature Schnauzer based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer

Factor Goldendoodle Miniature Schnauzer
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 1/5 4/5
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Does NOT chew on things 5/5 4/5
Low Prey Drive 5/5 2/5
Life Span 10 to 15 years 12 to 14 years
Does NOT Shed 4/5 4/5
Height 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder 13 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder
Tolerates Being Alone 3/5 5/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 3/5 4/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 4/5
General Health 3/5 3/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 3/5 2/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 3/5 3/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 3/5 3/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 3/5 3/5
Good For Novice Owners 4/5 3/5
Easygoing 2/5 2/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 4/5 3/5
Easy To Groom 4/5 2/5
Easy To Train 4/5 5/5
NOT Rambunctious 2/5 1/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 5/5
Kid-Friendly 5/5 3/5
Dog Friendly 5/5 3/5
Intelligence 5/5 4/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 1/5 1/5
Potential For Playfulness 5/5 4/5
Weight 50 to 90 pounds 11 to 20 pounds
Average Lifespan 12.5 years 13.0 years
Average Price $2170 $1950
Price Range $1500 – $2500 $1400 – $2500
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests No Data
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Eye Examination
  • Mycobacterium Avian Complex
  • Myotonia Congenita
  • Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Goldendoodle in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Miniature Schnauzer. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Goldendoodle is 90 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Miniature Schnauzer is 82 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Goldendoodle is a better pet than the Miniature Schnauzer. So, you should get the Goldendoodle!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer

    Below is a list of where the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are most different:

  • Goldendoodles do not adapt well to apartment living. However, Miniature Schnauzers adapt well to apartment living.
  • Goldendoodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets. However, Miniature Schnauzers have a high prey drive. They do not get along well with other pets.
  • The Similarities Between the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer

    The Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are most similar:

  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are good for new dog owners.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are very friendly towards strangers.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are very easy to train.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
  • Both the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer are very playful.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer.

    Goldendoodles weigh 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. Goldendoodles are 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    On the other hand, Miniature Schnauzers weigh 11 to 20 pounds when fully grown. Miniature Schnauzers are 13 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer

    The lifespan of Goldendoodles is between 10 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Goldendoodles is 12.5 years.

    The lifespan of Miniature Schnauzers is between 12 to 14 years. The average lifespan of Miniature Schnauzers is 13.0 years.

    Miniature Schnauzers live longer than Goldendoodles.

    Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer

    Price of Goldendoodle versus Price of Miniature Schnauzer

    The average price of the Goldendoodle puppy is $2170. The price of the Goldendoodle typically ranges from $1500 – $2500. However, the price of a Goldendoodle can be as low as $300 and as high as $32500. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 4239 Goldendoodle puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Miniature Schnauzer puppy is $1950. The price of the Miniature Schnauzer typically ranges from $1400 – $2500. However, the price of the Miniature Schnauzer can be as low as $500 and as high as $8500. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 913 Miniature Schnauzer puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Goldendoodle is more expensive than the Miniature Schnauzer.

    Goldendoodle Miniature Schnauzer
    Average Price $2170 $1950
    Price Range $1500 to $2500 $1400 to $2500

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Goldendoodle and Miniature Schnauzer. For different price points, the charts show how many Goldendoodle puppies or how many Miniature Schnauzer puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Goldendoodles. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Goldendoodles. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Miniature Schnauzers

    A breakdown of the prices of Miniature Schnauzers

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Goldendoodle puppy or the Miniature Schnauzer puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer

    Adopting the Goldendoodle versus Adopting the Miniature Schnauzer

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Goldendoodles and many Miniature Schnauzers are currently available for adoption.

    These adorable and cute dogs are waiting in dog shelters hoping that someday someone will rescue them. Furthermore, adoption costs are lesser than the cost of a new puppy. Dog adoption costs are usually around $300. In addition to your local dog shelter, a good place online to see dogs that are available for adoption is petfinder.com.

    Below is an adorable Male Goldendoodle named Wrigley that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Goldendoodles like Wrigley on pefinder.com.

    Also, like Goldendoodles, Miniature Schnauzers are also available for adoption. For example, Tucker is a Male Miniature Schnauzer that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Miniature Schnauzers like Tucker that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.

    The Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer can both be adopted. Images from petfinder.com

    Cliff-Nc is the name of another Goldendoodle (Male) on petfinder.com that is looking for a new home.

    Also, Clyde is an adorable Male Miniature Schnauzer on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

    Goldendoodles and Miniature Schnauzers are always available for adoption. Images from petfinder.com

    You can find more Goldendoodles and Miniature Schnauzers that are available for adoption on petfinder.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer

    Goldendoodles can be left alone only for a short time.

    Miniature Schnauzers can be left alone for some time without problems.

    Do Goldendoodles shed more than Miniature Schnauzers?

    Goldendoodles do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.

    Miniature Schnauzers do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Goldendoodle or the Miniature Schnauzer

    Goldendoodles do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Miniature Schnauzers do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Goldendoodle or the Miniature Schnauzer?

    Goldendoodles are very easy to groom.

    Miniature Schnauzers require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    Does the Goldendoodle Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Miniature Schnauzer?

    Goldendoodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Miniature Schnauzers have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.

    Do Goldendoodles Bark and Howl? What about Miniature Schnauzers?

    Goldendoodles bark and howl, but not very much.

    Miniature Schnauzers bark and howl, but not very much.

    Can Goldendoodles Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Miniature Schnauzers Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Goldendoodles can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Miniature Schnauzers can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Goldendoodle vs. Miniature Schnauzer

    Goldendoodles have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Miniature Schnauzers have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Can Goldendoodles Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Miniature Schnauzers Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Goldendoodles can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Miniature Schnauzers can tolerate hot weather.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Goldendoodle or the Miniature Schnauzer?

    Goldendoodles get along very well with other dogs.

    Miniature Schnauzers get along fairly well with other dogs.

    Are Goldendoodles good family dogs? What about Miniature Schnauzers?

    Goldendoodles are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Miniature Schnauzers are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Goldendoodles and Miniature Schnauzers?

    Goldendoodles get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Miniature Schnauzers get along fairly well with kids. They are quite kid-friendly.

    Is the Goldendoodle Easier to Train than the Miniature Schnauzer?

    Goldendoodles are very easy to train.

    Miniature Schnauzers are very easy to train.

    Is the Goldendoodle Better for Apartment Owners than the Miniature Schnauzer?

    Goldendoodles do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Miniature Schnauzers adapt very well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Goldendoodle or the Miniature Schnauzer?

    Goldendoodles are very good for new dog owners.

    Miniature Schnauzers are OK for new dog owners.

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Goldendoodle

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Goldendoodle that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Goldendoodle:

  • Labradoodle (78 percent match with Goldendoodle). Here is our comparison of the Miniature Schnauzer vs Labradoodle.
  • French Spaniel (77 percent match with Goldendoodle). Here is our comparison of the Miniature Schnauzer vs French Spaniel.
  • Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Miniature Schnauzer

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Miniature Schnauzer that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Miniature Schnauzer:

  • Polish Lowland Sheepdog (79 percent match with Miniature Schnauzer). Here is our comparison of the Goldendoodle vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

    You may also be interested in how the Goldendoodle and how the Miniature Schnauzer compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Goldendoodle and of the Miniature Schnauzer to other breeds:

    Goldendoodle Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Goldendoodle versus Cockapoo     Goldendoodle versus Basenji     Goldendoodle versus Kai Ken     Goldendoodle versus Puggle     Goldendoodle versus Neapolitan Mastiff     Goldendoodle versus Patterdale Terrier     Goldendoodle versus Standard Schnauzer     Goldendoodle versus Saint Bernard     Goldendoodle versus Dogue de Bordeaux     Goldendoodle versus Airedale Terrier     Goldendoodle versus Black Mouth Cur     Goldendoodle versus American Staffordshire Terrier     Goldendoodle versus Maltipoo     Goldendoodle versus Chorkie     Goldendoodle versus Whoodle     Goldendoodle versus English Setter     Goldendoodle versus Aussiedoodle     Goldendoodle versus American Staffordshire Terrier     Goldendoodle versus Australian Shepherd     Goldendoodle versus Black Mouth Cur     Goldendoodle versus Maltese     Goldendoodle versus Belgian Tervuren     Goldendoodle versus Saluki     Goldendoodle versus Shiranian     Goldendoodle versus Stabyhoun     

    Miniature Schnauzer Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Miniature Schnauzer versus Bich Poo     Miniature Schnauzer versus Portuguese Water Dog     Miniature Schnauzer versus Westiepoo     Miniature Schnauzer versus American Bulldog     Miniature Schnauzer versus Pyrenean Shepherd     Miniature Schnauzer versus Karelian Bear Dog     Miniature Schnauzer versus Norwich Terrier     Miniature Schnauzer versus Swedish Vallhund     Miniature Schnauzer versus Doberman Pinscher     Miniature Schnauzer versus Goldador     Miniature Schnauzer versus Papillon     Miniature Schnauzer versus Estrela Mountain Dog     Miniature Schnauzer versus Saint Berdoodle     Miniature Schnauzer versus Redbone Coonhound     Miniature Schnauzer versus Beagle     Miniature Schnauzer versus Dogue de Bordeaux     Miniature Schnauzer versus Ibizan Hound     Miniature Schnauzer versus Redbone Coonhound     Miniature Schnauzer versus Dogo Argentino     Miniature Schnauzer versus Labrador Retriever     Miniature Schnauzer versus Boxer     Miniature Schnauzer versus Puli     Miniature Schnauzer versus Welsh Springer Spaniel     Miniature Schnauzer versus Keeshond     Miniature Schnauzer versus Norfolk Terrier     

    Conclusion: Goldendoodle versus Miniature Schnauzer. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Goldendoodle and the Miniature Schnauzer better suits you and your family.