Terrier Schnauzer Mix: Dog Owner’s Guide

Dogs make great pets. They are loyal, loving, and always happy to see you. If you’re thinking about getting a dog, you may be wondering which breed is right for you.

The terrier schnauzer mix is gaining in popularity every year, and for good reason – they’re a versatile and easy-to-care-for dog that’s great for all kinds of families. 

This guide will help you decide if the terrier schnauzer mix is right for you.

You’ll learn about their history, temperament, and how to maintain them. From feeding and exercising to training and grooming, we’ve got you covered.

So if you’re thinking about adding one of these furry friends to your family, keep reading!

History of Terrier Schnauzer Mix

Terrier-schnauzer mixes are relatively new but have quickly become popular pets.

Schnauzers have been around since the 15th century, and were pets for German nobility in medieval times. They were used to guard homes and hunt vermin. The name comes from the German word “schnauze,” which means “snout.”

Terriers are considered one of the oldest dog breeds in England, where they were bred to hunt small game. They were brought to the US by European settlers and gained popularity as ratters on farms.

Schnauzers have been bred with terriers and other breeds to create a number of dog types.

Are Terrier Schnauzers Common Or Rare?

Terrier schnauzer mixes are relatively rare.

They take time to make, as they’re bred for specific traits and temperament. There are only a handful of breeders in the US. However, they’ve quickly grown in popularity due to their quality traits.

Interesting Facts About Terrier Schnauzer Breed

These dogs are pretty unique with an interesting history.

Here are some facts about terrier schnauzer mixes you may not have known:

1. Whiskers

Schnauzers and terriers both have facial whiskers that protect them. These long hairs allow the dog to feel vibrations and air currents, so he can sense when something is near or approaching him. Terrier schnauzer mixes inherited this trait from both breeds.

2. Scent Glands

Terriers possess scent glands on either side of their anus that produce a pungent odor to mark territory. Schnauzers and terrier schnauzer mixes both share this feature.

3. German Army

During World War I, the German Army used terrier schnauzers to carry messages on the battlefield. These little dogs would run through trenches and slip between enemy soldiers’ legs undetected, allowing them to deliver important messages behind enemy lines.

Appearance: What Do Terrier Schnauzer Mixes Look Like?

Size

Terrier schnauzer mixes are medium to large-sized crossbreeds. They have the balanced body shape of terriers, but the coat type and markings of schnauzers.

As there are many different terrier schnauzer mixes, they can vary in size and weight but should be proportionate and fall somewhere between the two breeds (terrier and a schnauzer).

Height

Though these dogs are often medium-sized, they can vary in size, with some being shorter than their parents and others being taller.

Schnauzers are one of the larger terrier breeds, ranging from 16 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder. Terriers range in height as well but average slightly shorter than schnauzers at 12 to 15 inches.

Weight

Terrier schnauzer mixes can vary in weight, depending on the parents’ type of terrier.

Schnauzers can grow to be anywhere from 30 to 50 pounds, while Terriers range in weight from 10 to 30 pounds.

Color

Both breeds come in several colors, including solid black, salt-and-pepper, and solid white.

Terrier schnauzers can have any color markings of either breed, whether it’s the full markings of a schnauzer or the broken patterns of terriers. Some have patches of white on their legs or chests.

The true coat color of the terrier schnauzer mixes depends on its parents. Eye color though is usually brown.

Maintenance: Are Terrier Schnauzer Mix Expensive Pets?

Terrier schnauzer mixes are active dogs but are not as high energy as their terrier parent.

They do need daily exercise, whether it’s a walk or time to play outside.

Like any dog, however, they do require some maintenance to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Feeding

Terrier schnauzer mixes should be fed an appropriate dog food that is high in protein, vitamin D, taurine, and other nutrients that help with their health.

There is no specific amount to feed your dog, as it depends on their age, activity level, and metabolism.

Grooming

The fur of terrier schnauzer mixes usually doesn’t shed too much. However, they do need regular brushing and should be bathed when necessary.

Schnauzers have a distinctive long, wiry coat that requires regular grooming. Terriers also require brushing and sometimes shaving or trimming to keep them looking their best.

Schnauzers have a distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows that need regular grooming with scissors or clippers. They usually require shaving during the warmer months to keep them cool, but in the wintertime, they’ll need to be clipped closer to keep the air circulating under their coat.

Bathing

Terrier schnauzer mixes should be bathed about once every month.

Their coats are usually easy to brush so they don’t get too dirty. However, if they spend a lot of time outdoors playing in the mud, for example, they’ll need regular baths. Regular cleaning of their eyes and ears is also important.

Nails

Like any dog, it’s important to keep the nails of terrier schnauzer mixes trimmed.

If they are too long, their legs can get caught in them while running or playing at full speed. This can lead to pulled muscles or even injury or fracturing of bones.

Teeth

Like other breeds, it’s important to check the teeth of your terrier schnauzer mix for tooth decay and plaque.

Regular brushing can help prevent these problems. If they do get worse, you may need to have them professionally cleaned by a vet or dog groomer who has experience in cleaning canine teeth.

Overall the terrier schnauzer mix is not as high maintenance as other breeds and therefore shouldn’t be overly expensive to own.

However, like every pet, there is a cost as they do require attention and exercise daily to keep them happy and healthy throughout their lives.

What’s A Terrier Schnauzer’s Temperament?

Terrier schnauzer mixes are known to be intelligent, independent dogs that are loyal to their family.

They will typically inherit these traits from both parents. As they are mixed, however, their temperament can vary.

You’ll need to carefully socialize the terrier schnauzer mix as a puppy since they can develop fear-related behaviors if they’re not properly trained early on.

The smaller mixes are typically more energetic than their calmer and more relaxed larger counterparts.

All mixes and sizes though are generally a good fit for a household with children as they tend to bond well with people easily.

How Do They Behave Around Children?

Terrier schnauzer mixes do well with children due to their easy-going nature. As with all dogs though, they should be properly socialized and trained if around children.

Make sure to teach children how to approach and touch your dog and always supervise any interactions until you know it’s safe.

Do They Get Along With Other Dogs?

If socialized well while young, terrier schnauzer mixes can get along with other breeds within the family.

Just remember that while they have a gentle temperament, they are still dogs and not toys so it’s important to always supervise interactions between your dog and any others.

How Do They Behave Around Other Pets?

Terrier schnauzer mixes can get along with other pets if properly socialized.

Even though they are good-natured dogs, they aren’t always naturally good with small pets due to their energy level and size.

Are Terrier Schnauzer Mix Intelligent?

The terrier schnauzer mix has a high intelligence level that’s common among many working breeds such as retrievers or collies.

Terriers and Schnauzers are both intelligent breeds so they make a great combination.

Schnauzer Terrier mix dogs are eager to learn, and they will thrive on solid training and socialization.

This allows them to be trained for different purposes if you are interested in using them as working dogs or even simply taking them on as pets.

How Much Activity Do Terrier Schnauzer Dogs Need?

Terrier schnauzer mixes are energetic and they need plenty of activity to keep them happy.

Like other terrier breeds, these hybrids have a strong hunting instinct so it’s important to provide your dog with regular physical exercise.

They’ll need at least an hour of playtime daily to stay healthy. Depending on the size of your dog, they may need more or less playtime or daily walks.

They enjoy a safe, open space outdoors to run around in as well as enjoying hikes through the woods.

How Much Food Can Terrier Schnauzers Consume?

Terrier schnauzer mixes are somewhere between the average-sized breeds and those at the larger end of the scale.

They can require anywhere from ½ to 2 cups of high-quality dry pet food a day, split into separate portions twice a day. It’s best to feed them smaller meals throughout the day as that is more natural for dogs.

Some can be picky eaters so you’ll need to put some extra effort into training them to eat the food you’re providing, but this will pay off in their health later.

What’s The Difference Between A Male And A Female Terrier Schnauzer Mix?

Terrier schnauzer mixes can vary in appearance depending on their parent breeds.

Female terrier schnauzers typically tend to be smaller and lighter than males. Female terrier schnauzers also can be calmer and more easy-going than their male counterparts.

Male terrier schnauzers tend to be heavier, larger, and stronger. They are typically more active as well as being more protective of their territory.

How To Know If A Terrier Schnauzer Mix Is The Right Pet For You?

Many people find terrier schnauzer mixes a good fit for their household as they are intelligent and easy to train.

They also tend to be very loving and loyal companions that can be great with children as well as other pets.

You should always ask yourself whether you have the time, patience, and energy it takes to properly care for a dog.

Because terrier schnauzers can be energetic and need plenty of daily exercise to stay healthy, they aren’t the best choice for people who are sedentary or who live in an apartment with limited outdoor space.

It’s also important to consider if you can provide your dog with the right kind of veterinary care and training it needs on a regular basis.

The lifespan of terrier schnauzers tends to be between 11 and 15 years, so you should have a good idea whether you’re willing to commit to a pet for that long.

They are a good choice for people who want an active, intelligent dog that can also be loyal and loving.

7 Things To Consider Before Owning A Terrier Schnauzer Mix

Before you take the leap and adopt or buy a terrier schnauzer mix, be sure you know what you’re getting into.

If you are set on getting one of these dogs, make sure that you consider the following things first:

1. Health

Mixing breeds can result in health issues that may be accelerated in terrier schnauzers, so you should try to get your dog from a reputable breeder and meet the parents before you decide on one of these dogs.

Some common health issues include:

• Hip dysplasia – where the thigh bone fails to fit snugly into place in the hip joint. This can cause arthritis later on in life and is more common in larger breeds.
• Dental problems – bad teeth can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, and even brain damage. Terrier schnauzers may have an increased risk of dental problems because they are more likely to harbor genes for brachygnathism (overbite).
• Eyesight problems – such as ectropion, entropion, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye disease) which can cause blindness.
• Hypothyroidism – where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to regulate metabolism. This can cause weight gain, hair loss, and skin problems in older terrier schnauzers.

2. Diet

Your dog should eat high-quality food to stay healthy, so you should ask the breeder what they recommend.

Terriers tend to have a quick metabolism and can easily gain weight so you need to be careful about what your dog eats.

Foods that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates are best since carbohydrates can trigger insulin spikes that lead to increased fat storage.

As the mixes can vary, their age, size, metabolism, and energy level will determine the right amount of food they need.

No matter how tempting they might be, don’t give them too many sweets and make sure they have plenty of water, especially in the summer heat.

3. Time And Energy

Terrier schnauzers are active dogs that require attention and socialization. They need daily exercise as well as mental stimulation to be healthy and happy.

They can also be quite stubborn, so you should make sure you’re ready for the extra time needed to train them.

If you have a busy life or aren’t willing to put in the work, a terrier schnauzer mix may not be the right choice for you.

4. Visits To The Vet

Your dog will need check-ups and vaccinations at least once a year as well as visits for any emergencies that might crop up.

You should also take your terrier schnauzer mix to the veterinarian if they’re struggling with any health issues.

If you can’t afford to go to the vet or don’t have time for it, perhaps you need to consider this before buying one.

5. Grooming

Terrier schnauzers can be either long-haired or short-haired, so the grooming needs will depend on the type you get.

Regardless of their coat length, like every dog, they do shed and need to be brushed daily. Regular grooming of their coat and nails will also keep them healthy.

You should also keep an eye out for mats in their fur that can lead to skin problems.

Some people don’t like grooming, but if you’re not willing to put in the time or money on grooming products, this is something else to remember.

6. Training

Terriers are intelligent dogs that can pick up commands quickly, so you should try to give them as much training as possible from an early age.

They also have a stubborn streak and some terrier schnauzer mixes are more difficult to train.

You should try to keep your training sessions short so they don’t get bored or distracted and use positive reinforcement since harsh methods can lead to bad behavior.

There are several ways to go about it and it might depend on your personal preference.

7. Living Environment

Terrier schnauzers can adapt to most environments as long as they get the time and attention they need, but there are a few things you should consider.

As active dogs, some terrier schnauzer mixes don’t do well in small spaces since they won’t have room to run around. This would be a problem if you live in an apartment or small home, so you should make sure you have the space for them.

If they don’t get enough exercise, terrier schnauzer mixes can become restless and destructive which isn’t good.

They are also prone to barking – even if it’s just at sounds in the house – which could be a problem if you live in a quiet neighborhood or small apartment complex.

People Also Ask

Conclusion

These dogs can be loyal and loving companions if they get the attention and training they need. Just remember that getting one is a big commitment that goes beyond the purchase price.

They’re not for everyone so it’s always good to do as much research as possible before getting a new dog since they can be very rewarding as well as challenging pets.

This is where this dog owner’s guide comes in handy – you’ll learn everything you need to know about the terrier schnauzer mix, including what size they get, how much exercise they need, and how to take care of them properly.

If you’re ready to commit to this high-energy pup and can provide it with plenty of activity and love, then a Terrier Schnauzer mix may just be the perfect pet for you!

Do you own a Schnauzer Terrier? What’s your favorite thing about this breed? Share your experience in the comments section below.

Thanks for reading!