Schnoodle (Schnauzer & Poodle Mix)

Adorable, active, and incredibly intelligent, the Schnoodle is an incredibly popular designer dog breed and for good reason. Available in a myriad of colors and sizes, she’s definitely a pistol! The result of breeding the sassy Schnauzer with the performing Poodle, the Schnoodle can be as petite as 10 pounds or as massive as 80 pounds. Excelling as a family dog, lap dog, therapy dog, or performance pooch, the swell Schnoodle can be an amazing pet for just about any household, including urban apartments and sprawling suburban homes.

If you’re interested in seeing what the Schnoodle is all about, let’s explore everything you need to know about this fantastic hybrid breed (plus some awesome Schnoodle images).

Schnoodle Puppies – Before You Buy…

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by K O N A 🐾🐾 (@kona.theschnoodle)

Always the center of attention, the Schnoodle (sometimes spelled Shnoodle) is a dazzling designer dog that has gained major popularity with both families with small kids and single seniors. Definite people-pleasers, Schnoodle puppies are always happy, playful, and protective over their pack.

With the rise in demand for hybrid breeds, however, comes the rise of bad and backyard breeders. In order to guarantee you are buying a healthy and happy Schnoodle puppy, it’s imperative that you buy your dog from a well-qualified and reputable breeder.

A backyard breeder is an amateur dog breeder whose breeding is sub-par and has little regard for the wellbeing of the parents or puppies. In other words, backyard breeders are simply out to make a quick profit at the expense of the parent dogs and the puppies.

There are many dire consequences that come with buying a Schnoodle from a bad breeder. Your new pup could be littered with health and behavioral problems that may affect her for her entire life.

Though it may seem appealing to save a couple hundred dollars in the short term, the consequences of buying from a backyard breeder will haunt you for years to come.

What’s the Price of Schnoodle Puppies?

With all of that said, the price for a Schnoodle puppy from a high-quality breeder will run you upwards of $2,000 for a top-of-the-line pup with show qualities and papers. The average cost for all Schnoodle puppies is about $700.

However, this isn’t a one-time deal. You’re simply not going to only spend $700 and be done. The average costs for the first year of raising a puppy can range from $2,670 to $3,230. This takes into account the initial vet visit bills, puppy food, a crate, toys, bedding, puppy classes, a leash and collar, and grooming needs.

As you can see, buying a puppy is a huge investment of money. It is also a large investment of your time as well. The return on investment, however, is unconditional love and a devoted companion for years to come.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Schnoodle

The name “Schnoodle” is a fun term in and of itself. However, this designer dog offers plenty of more amusing surprises!

1. An Impressive German Lineage

Both of your Schnoodle’s parent breeds hail from Germany. The term “Schnauze” is a German word, meaning snout or muzzle.

2. They Come in a Variety of Sizes

The Schnoodle can weigh as little as 10 pounds or tip the scales at over 80 pounds. This is because she can be a combination of any of the three Poodle or Schnauzer sizes.

3. A Natural Performer

Your Schnoodle loves being in the spotlight! This is because her Poodle parent breed is a natural-born performer who actually was used in the circus for centuries.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Schnoodle

To fully understand your new Schnoodle’s personality, it’s imperative to know the temperament and intelligence of her two parent dog breeds. Your puppy can inherit any combination of the Poodle or Schnauzer’s personality traits.

Schnoodles are simply oozing with personality. They love being entertained and entertaining. Additionally, they are loyal, sharp, smart, and can sometimes be energetic and protective.

The Schnauzer is a great dog for folks of all ages. They are super active pups that love to romp and play. Although they are extremely devoted dogs, it is always best to socialize Schnauzer puppies starting from a very young age. This is especially true for Giant Schnauzers as they aren’t aware of their immense size!

The Poodle, while not as outgoing as the Schnauzer, are super smart canines with an affinity to please and perform. They can sometimes be aloof toward strangers, protective, and shy, so it is best to socialize them from the start.

Your Shnoodle will be a combination of any of these traits. However, she will most likely be very intelligent, active, and love life.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

Absolutely! Schnoodles are great with children of all ages. However, always keep an eye on your Schnoodle and your tots during playtime. Additionally, teach your kids never to take away food from an eating dog as this could lead to potential nipping or snarling.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

If socialized from an early age, your Schnoodle will be a friendly companion to all other four-legged members of your household.

Things to Know When Owning a Schnoodle

Now that you know all about your Schnoodle’s personality, let’s take a deep dive into all other aspects of caring for her, including her diet, exercise and grooming requirements, and training advice.

Food & Diet Requirements

The Schnoodle needs a high-quality, protein-packed, grain-free kibble that suits her size and activity level. Remember, that her dietary needs will change as she ages.

The general recommended amount will range from ¾ to one cup of dry food per day for Schnoodles weighing 20 pounds. You’ll need to feed her less or more depending upon her size. Always consult with your vet if you are unsure of the amounts you should be feeding your dog.

Exercise

Your Schnoodle may either be a couch potato or an agile and athletic pooch, depending upon what traits she inherits from her parent breeds. She’ll need at least one hour of exercise and playtime per day. This can be a brisk walk in the park or a game of fetch in the backyard. It’s important to keep in mind that your Schnoodle also needs the proper amount of mental stimulation in addition to physical activity throughout the day due to her high intelligence. Consider getting a puppy puzzle or enrolling her in weekly agility or obedience courses to fend off boredom.

Training

Your Schnoodle always needs a job to do. They don’t appreciate being bored and could develop unwanted behaviors or habits if left on their own for long stretches of the day.

The Schnoodle was born to please. Though she does have a stubborn streak. She will be at her best with firm, consistent training and positive reinforcements. However, Schnoodles can get bored easily with the same basic training techniques. Ensure she’s always kept on her toes by spicing her training up with new tricks, and even a backyard agility course.

Grooming ✂️

Many Schnoodles are hypoallergenic and make great pets for people who have allergies.

Your Schnoodle can either inherit the Schnauzer’s hard, wiry, double-length medium coat or the Poodle’s long, thick, and curly coat. Or her coat may fall somewhere in between the two.

Weekly brushing is necessary for either coat type. However, if your Schnoodle’s coat is more Poodle-esque, she will require daily brushing and a monthly trip to the groomer to prevent matting.

Be sure to also clean her ears and trim her nails as needed.

Health Conditions

As with any designer dog breed, your Schnoodle will inherit any of the diseases her two parent dog breeds can succumb to. To ward off possible genetic issues, it is crucial to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder who has had genetic testing done on both parent dogs.

Male vs Female

While a Schnoodle can be larger than a female in both height and weight, the two genders are both fun-loving, loyal dogs that make amazing pets.

Final Thoughts

Whether you live in a city apartment or a house with a large backyard, the Schnoodle is a versatile breed that thrives in almost any type of home. Available in a large array of sizes, colors, and coat patterns, your Schnoodle is a lovable diva who always aims to please. A little bit stubborn, this dog would thrive best under consistent, stern training using positive reinforcement methods. She also hates to be bored, so both physical and mental stimulation is key for this pooch.

If you’re thinking about buying a Schnoodle puppy, ensure you buy one from a responsible and reputable breeder to avoid any health or behavioral issues.

Besides that, Schnoodles are active, amazing pets that will get along with your other pets and kids. They make a wonderful addition to any family!

---

Featured Image Credit: Pikist