Schnoodle

Schnoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a Schnauzer.

The result is a hybrid dog that is hypoallergenic and non shedding.

Unlike some other Doodle varieties, the Schnoodle’s parents are both hypoallergenic (as endorsed by the American Kennel Club).

Schnoodles can come in three different sizes depending on the size of each parent that was involved in the breeding process.

This particular cross breed will usually be a friendly, intelligent and loving family pet.

However, Schnoodles require lots of mental and physical stimulation.

What is a Schnoodle?

Schnoodles are a cross breed that are the result of breeding between a Poodle and a Schnauzer.

They can come in different sizes given the Poodle has three sizes and the Schnauzer has three sizes.

This designer dog breed first originated in the 1980s at around the same time as other popular Doodle varities.

While the AKC recognise the Poodle and the Schnauzer breeds, the organization haven’t granted the Schnoodle status.

However, the Schnoodle does have recognition from American Canine Hybrid Club, Continental Kennel Club, Designer Breed Registry, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America and International Designer Canine Registry.

What size is a Schnoodle?

Schnoodles can range in size depending on whether they’re giant, standard, miniature or toy. They can range from 10 to 16 inches and weigh between 10 to 60 pounds as a rough guideline. However, you’ll find some Schnoodles who are above and below these size estimations.

Sprocket is a standard sized Schnoodle.

However, Winifred is a smaller sized Schnoodle.

Schnoodle appearance

Each Schnoodle can have a slightly different appearance depending on whether they take after their Poodle or Schnauzer parent. For instance, some Schnoodles will have the wiry coat for their Schnauzer parent but others will have the curly coat of their Poodle parent. Schnoodles can have brown or hazel eyes and a black or brown nose. Their coat color can range from black, white, brown gray and sable.

Giselle’s parents gave a great description for Schnoodles.

Schnoodle temperament

Just like with their appearance, Schnoodles can have temperaments that more closely reflect the Poodle or Schnauzer breed. For example, some Schnoodle could be big barkers, which is a trait usually associated with Schnauzers.

Overall, Schnoodles are charming, friendly and loving dogs that will enjoy being part of a family unit. They’re smart dogs that will quickly learn commands and tricks. Schnoodles can be quite alert so this cross breed can make effective watch dogs.

Here’s an example of Schnoodle temperament based upon Winifred.

Giselle is an easy-going Schnoodle who gets along with everyone.

Do Schnoodles suffer from separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a chronic canine disorder that can affect any dog irrespective of breed or mix. It can occur when you leave the home or in some cases just the sight of you picking up your keys or putting on your shoes can trigger a reaction. Some Schnoodles could potentially suffer from this chronic condition, resulting in persistent barking, howling or whining, destructive chewing or digging or other symptoms.

Winifred has experienced a little separation anxiety.

Giselle’s mom added:

Do Schnoodles make great family pets?

Schnoodles can make an excellent choice for a family pet given their friendly and playful personalities. They’ll combine traits of both the Poodle and Schnauzer, resulting in a potential lap dog, family dog, therapy dog or performance dog.

Winifred’s parents would recommend Schnoodles as a family pet.

Are Schnoodles easy to train?

Poodles are considered the second smartest dog breed in the world behind the Border Collie. So there’s a fairly good chance you’ll have a clever canine on your hands if you decide a Schnoodle is the dog for you. The Schnauzer is ranked at number 12 so even if your Schnoodle is more Schnauzer than Poodle, training shouldn’t be too difficult. Having said that, it’s still a good idea to bring your Schnoodle pup to puppy classes and reinforce basic commands and obedience from a young age.

Sprocket is one smart Schnoodle.

Do Schnoodles get along with other dogs and pets?

Schnoodles are usually sociable dogs that like to meet new people and new dogs. However, as with any type of dog, it’s a good idea to get them used to meeting new people and other dogs from a young age to help build good social skills. Of course, you should do so in a controlled environment.

Sprocket is a sociable Schnoodle.

Are Schnoodles aggressive?

When I googled Schnoodle, one of the first questions that came up was whether Schnoodles are aggressive. I put this questions to Sprocket’s parents.

Do Schnoodles bark a lot?

As we’ve touched upon above, Schnauzers have a reputation for being dogs that are susceptible to barking. This could be a good or a bad thing depending on the function that your Schnoodle will play in your home. If you’re hoping to use your giant or standard Schnoodle as a guard dog or watch dog, you’ll want them to raise the alarm if there’s a potential stranger approaching the property. If your Schnoodle is going to be an apartment dog, excessive barking could become a problem.

Sprocket does like to make his voice heard.

How much exercise do Schnoodles need?

Schnoodles are the offspring of two active breeds. Therefore, this cross breed is likely to require quite a bit of exercise every day. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to give a Schnoodle around 60 minutes of exercise a day. While you could go for a long walk, you could also entertain your Schnoodle with games in the garden or training inside the home.

Are Schnoodles hypoallergenic?

The American Kennel Club state that there’s no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog. While some dogs don’t shed a lot, their salvia or urine could still trigger a person’s allergies. Having said that, the AKC puts forward the Poodle and Schnauzer as two breeds that they consider to be hypoallergenic. So we can safely assume that a Schnoodle is likely to be highly hypoallergenic.

Sprocket is an example of a hypoallergenic Schnoodle.

Winifred’s parents added:

Finally, Giselle is also hypoallergenic.

Do Schnoodles shed a lot?

Given neither the Poodle nor the Schnauzer sheds a lot, it’s unlikely that Schnoodles will shed their coats.

Do Schnoodles need regular grooming?

Although you can enjoy the convenience of a virtually non-shedding dog, Schnoodles will require regular brushing to maintain the appearance and health of their coats. While you can adopt a regular brushing schedule, they’ll usually require a trip to a professional groomer every couple of months. You’ll need to dedicate a part of your day to brushing your Schnoodle as well as setting aside some of your budget for their grooming costs.

Giselle is groomed regularly to maintain her lovely coat.

Are Schnoodles fussy eaters?

Some dogs can be fussy eaters for a variety of different reasons. I’ve experienced life with picky dogs and it can be a really big headache trying to find food for your canine companion. Other dogs could have sensitive stomachs that require an amended diet. If your Schnoodle is picky or is sensitive to certain foods, you may find it useful to check out some of the best dog food delivery options in the USA available right now (click here for the UK options).

Winifred’s parents have enjoyed great success with a raw fed diet.

Do Schnoodles have any health problems?

Although Schnoodles are a mixed breed, they can still suffer from some health issues. Some potential health problems to be aware of include:

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Addison’s Disease
• Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
• Gastric Dilation Volvulus

Here’s what Giselle’s parents had to say:

Schnoodle Price

Schnoodles are sometimes dubbed a designer breed. This particular cross breed can be quite expensive to buy like a lot of other Doodle varieties. You may first prefer to check your local rescue shelter or a breeder to see if they’ve got any members of this cross breed that are looking for a forever home. Alternatively, you may prefer to go for a puppy. We recommend doing a lot of research when looking for a Schnoodle breeder. You should ask to see the parents, proof of health and vet checks as well as registration documentation for the parents. Most breeders will require potential pet parents to fill out a detailed questionnaire and place a deposit to be put on a waiting list for a pup.

Are Schnoodles expensive?

While you may have saved for the initial cost of purchasing your Schnoodle puppy, there are other costs to consider once you’ve brought your new arrival home. There are monthly costs such as dog food, pet insurance, vet and grooming costs to consider. You’ll need to create a budget to make sure you can afford all the expenses associated with owning a dog.

Would you recommend Schnoodles to first-time owners?

Here’s some advice from Giselle’s mom.

What are the pros and cons of Schnoodles?

Pros

Sprocket: Schnoodles are pretty healthy, as long as you go to a reputable breeder. They have great noses to sniff critters and will give chase and bark at them. Sprocket is aware of human feelings. He can sense when you are sad, and will be right by your side for hugs and pets.

Winifred: The pros of having a Schnoodle is that they are great at making you happy, they are known for their agility skills, they are easy to train. Schnoodles love people and we know a 90 year old lady who has a Schnoodle, she never has any problems and because she can’t walk as far a young person can she loves that her Schnoodle is fine with shorter walks.

Cons

Sprocket: However, they do need groomed regularly, and can be stubborn. If a squirrel or cat appears in the yard, he will ignore all commands and chase it. Schnoodles require lots of play because they are very energetic. Sprocket loves to run in the fenced in back yard and loves to go for walks.

Winifred: Schnoodles are an all round great breed. Their love of people can be a con though when ( if not trained well) can run to see someone when on a walk.

Schnoodles to follow on Instagram

If you want to learn more about a particular type of dog, social media can be a great tool. In our experience, pet parents are more than willing to offer information about life with a member of a certain breed or mix. Here are some Schnoodle accounts to check out.

• Sprocket (@sprocket_schnoodle)

• Winifred (@winifred_the_schnoodle)

• Giselle (@muttoflondon)

Schnoodle Pictures

In conclusion

We’ve reached the end of our feature on the Schnoodle.

They’re a cross breed that is a mix of a Poodle and a Schnauzer. The result is a friendly, energetic, confident dog.

Schnoodles can make great family pets given their sociable temperaments. They can make effective guard dogs or watch dogs given their tendency to bark.

Perhaps the standout characteristic of the Schnoodle is their hypoallergenic coat give the Poodle and the Schnauzer are considered to by hypoallergenic breeds.