Schnoodle Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Schnoodle is a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle. It is a clever, lively companion with a wiry or curly coat, a bearded face and a size that depends on the parent types used.

Origins and appearance

The cross has been bred in North America since the late twentieth century and may use Miniature, Standard or Giant Schnauzers and Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodles. Schnoodles have a rounded head, a bearded or bushy muzzle, drop ears and a coat that is wiry, wavy or curly in black, gray, silver, apricot, brown and parti-colored.

Temperament

They are clever, lively and affectionate. They tend to love people and are often good with children and other pets. They are alert and may bark at noises. They are energetic. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with walks, play and training. Mental work matters. Many enjoy agility and trick training.

Training

They are very intelligent and eager. Use positive methods, variety and early socialization. Teach quiet cues early. They learn fast, including habits you may not want. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

Coats need brushing several times a week and a trim every six to eight weeks. See curly coat dog grooming guide. Clean the beard, clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

A cross can inherit conditions from either parent. Topics include:

• Pancreatitis. See pancreatitis in dogs
• Bladder stones. See bladder stones in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
• Skin conditions. See dog skin allergies
• Hip dysplasia and luxating patella
• Diabetes. See diabetes in dogs

Living with a Schnoodle

They suit active families and individuals who enjoy training and will groom. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone or quiet buildings.

A typical day

A Schnoodle wants a morning walk, training, a rest, play and an evening outing. Many are lively indoors.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and clever. Begin socialization, handling and grooming early. Provide chew toys. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, regular grooming, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They are adaptable but may overheat in hot weather. Provide shade and water. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include assuming the coat is hypoallergenic, skipping grooming, underexercising and feeding fatty scraps.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about eye and DNA testing on both parents and meet them. Be wary of sellers who promise coat type or size.

Size depends on the parents

A Schnoodle from Toy Poodle and Miniature Schnauzer parents can be small, while a Giant Schnauzer and Standard Poodle may produce a large dog. Ask what sizes the parents were and what adults from earlier litters weighed.

Watch the fat

Schnauzers and Poodles can both be prone to pancreatitis and digestive upset after fatty food. Keep treats small, avoid table scraps and ask your vet what to do if your dog vomits or seems unwell after eating.

Daily care checklist

• A walk or training session.
• Brushing and beard cleaning.
• Ear checks.
• Puzzle games or scent work.
• Company and a comfortable bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Schnoodle suits active owners who want a clever, lively companion and will groom and train. It may not suit those wanting a guaranteed non-shedding dog. For a parent breed, see the Miniature Schnauzer.

The takeaway

Schnoodles are clever, lively and bearded, and they need exercise, grooming, careful feeding and company.