Which is Better between the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo?

Last Updated: May 01, 2022

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Miniature Schnauzer Versus Shihpoo: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo? 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 Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo 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 Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo 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 Miniature Schnauzer and for the Shihpoo. 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 Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo.

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

Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo

Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo: Overview

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

Furthermore, 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.

On the other hand, the Shihpoo belongs to the Mixed Breed Dogs group. Mixed Breed Dogs are not purebred dogs.

Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Miniature Schnauzer to the Shihpoo 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 Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo

FactorMiniature SchnauzerShihpoo
Does NOT Drool5/55/5
Weight11 to 20 pounds8 to 18 pounds
Life Span12 to 14 years13 to 17 years
Height13 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder8 to 18 inches
Does NOT Shed4/55/5
Easy To Groom2/52/5
Does NOT chew on things4/53/5
Good For Novice Owners3/52/5
Kid-Friendly3/53/5
Dog Friendly3/52/5
Friendly Toward Strangers3/54/5
General Health3/53/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl3/54/5
Tendency NOT to Wander3/54/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor3/55/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living4/55/5
Easygoing2/52/5
Tolerates Cold Weather4/53/5
Tolerates Hot Weather4/52/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight2/52/5
Intelligence4/54/5
Low Prey Drive2/54/5
Potential For Playfulness4/54/5
Tolerates Being Alone5/52/5
Affectionate With Family5/55/5
Easy To Train5/52/5
NOT Rambunctious1/53/5
Minimal Exercise Needs1/54/5
Average Lifespan13.0 years15.0 years
Average Price$1950$1590
Price Range$1400 – $2500$1200 – $2000
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Eye Examination
  • Mycobacterium Avian Complex
  • Myotonia Congenita
  • No Data
    *Data from AKC.org (The American Kennel Club),dogtime.com, OFA.org (The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals), petcalculator.com, wikipedia.org, ATTS.org (The American Temperament Test Society)

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Miniature Schnauzer 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 Shihpoo. 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 Miniature Schnauzer is 82 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Shihpoo is 84 out of 125.

    Despite the higher Better-Pet score of the Shihpoo, we still believe that the Miniature Schnauzer is a better pet than the Shihpoo.

    This is because Miniature Schnauzers are much cuter but you cannot put a score on cuteness. If you could put a score on cuteness, then the Miniature Schnauzer will come out on top.

    Also, we are biased in favor of the Miniature Schnauzer :-). We are for the Miniature Schnauzer. So get a Miniature Schnauzer!

    Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo

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

  • Miniature Schnauzers can be left alone for some time without problems. However, Shihpoos do not like to be left alone.
  • Miniature Schnauzers are very easy to train. However, Shihpoos are not easy to train.
  • Miniature Schnauzers require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise. However, Shihpoos have low exercise needs.
  • The Similarities Between the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo

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

  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo require a lot of grooming and are not very easy to groom.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo adapt well to apartment living.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo 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 Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo gain weight easily. You need to pay careful attention to what you feed them.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo are very playful.
  • Both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Size Comparison of the Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo

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

    The Miniature Schnauzer weighs 11 to 20 pounds when fully grown. The Miniature Schnauzer is 13 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    On the other hand, the Shihpoo weighs 8 to 18 pounds when fully grown. The Shihpoo is 8 to 18 inches when fully grown.

    Size of Miniature Schnauzer versus Size of Shihpoo

    Appearance (Colors) of the Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo

    Miniature Schnauzer Colors

    The Miniature Schnauzer comes in the following beautiful primary colors:

    • Bicolor
    • Gray / Blue / Silver
    • Brown / Chocolate
    • Black
    • White / Cream
    • Tricolor (Brown, Black, & White)
    • Yellow / Tan / Blond / Fawn

    The Miniature Schnauzer comes in the following lovely secondary colors in addition to its primary colors:

    • White / Cream
    • Black
    • Gray / Blue / Silver

    Shihpoo Colors

    The Shihpoo comes in the following beautiful primary colors:

    • Black
    • White / Cream
    • Gray / Blue / Silver
    • Apricot / Beige
    • Bicolor
    • Brown / Chocolate

    The Shihpoo comes in the following lovely secondary colors in addition to its primary colors:

    • Gray / Blue / Silver
    • White / Cream
    • Black

    Lifespan of Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo

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

    The lifespan of the Shihpoo is between 13 to 17 years . The average lifespan of the Shihpoo is 15.0 years.

    The Shihpoo live longer than the Miniature Schnauzer.

    Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo

    Price of Miniature Schnauzer versus Price of Shihpoo

    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 a Miniature Schnauzer can be as low as $500 and as high as $8500. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 913 Miniature Schnauzer puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Shihpoo puppy is $1590. The price of the Shihpoo typically ranges from $1200 – $2000. However, the price of the Shihpoo can be as low as $300 and as high as $4325. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 283 Shihpoo puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Miniature Schnauzer is more expensive than the Shihpoo.

    Miniature Schnauzer Shihpoo
    Average Price $1950 $1590
    Price Range $1400 to $2500 $1200 to $2000

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

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

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

    A breakdown of the prices of Shihpoos

    A breakdown of the prices of Shihpoos

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Miniature Schnauzer puppy or the Shihpoo 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.

    Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo

    Adopting the Miniature Schnauzer versus Adopting the Shihpoo

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Miniature Schnauzers and many Shihpoos 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 Miniature Schnauzer named Nicodemus that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Miniature Schnauzers like Nicodemus on pefinder.com.

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

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

    Pending — Rowdy is the name of another Miniature Schnauzer (Male) on petfinder.com that is looking for a new home.

    Also, Feta is an adorable Male Shihpoo on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

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

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

    Tolerates Being Alone: Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo

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

    Shihpoos do not like to be left alone.

    Do Miniature Schnauzers shed more than Shihpoos?

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Miniature Schnauzers get along fairly well with other dogs.

    Shihpoos do not get along well with other dogs.

    Are Miniature Schnauzers good family dogs? What about Shihpoos?

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

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

    Is the Miniature Schnauzer Easier to Train than the Shihpoo?

    Miniature Schnauzers are very easy to train.

    Shihpoos are not easy to train.

    Which one drools more, the Miniature Schnauzer or the Shihpoo

    Miniature Schnauzers do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Shihpoos do have a very low tendency to drool.

    How Kid-friendly are Miniature Schnauzers and Shihpoos?

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

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

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

    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.

    Shihpoos 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.

    Do Miniature Schnauzers Bark and Howl? What about Shihpoos?

    Miniature Schnauzers bark and howl, but not very much.

    Shihpoos are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

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

    Miniature Schnauzers can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Shihpoos can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Miniature Schnauzer vs. Shihpoo

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

    Shihpoos do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    Can Miniature Schnauzers Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Shihpoos Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Miniature Schnauzers can tolerate hot weather.

    Shihpoos cannot tolerate hot weather. They are not suited for hot environments.

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

    Miniature Schnauzers adapt very well to apartment living.

    Shihpoos adapt very well to apartment living.

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

    Miniature Schnauzers are OK for new dog owners.

    Shihpoos are not the best dogs for new dog owners.

    Miniature Schnauzer Versus Other Dog Breeds

    You may also be interested in how the Miniature Schnauzer compares to other breeds aside from the Shihpoo. So, see below the links to the comparison of the Miniature Schnauzer to other breeds:

    Miniature Schnauzer versus Havanese     Miniature Schnauzer versus Welsh Terrier     Miniature Schnauzer versus Bluetick Coonhound     Miniature Schnauzer versus Black Russian Terrier     Miniature Schnauzer versus Norfolk Terrier     Miniature Schnauzer versus Harrier     Miniature Schnauzer versus Irish Terrier     Miniature Schnauzer versus Akita     Miniature Schnauzer versus Cockapoo     Miniature Schnauzer versus Shetland Sheepdog     Miniature Schnauzer versus German Wirehaired Pointer     Miniature Schnauzer versus American Eskimo Dog     Miniature Schnauzer versus Hovawart     Miniature Schnauzer versus Maltese     Miniature Schnauzer versus Anatolian Shepherd Dog     

    Conclusion: Miniature Schnauzer versus Shihpoo. 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 Miniature Schnauzer and the Shihpoo better suits you and your family.