What is the difference between a Miniature Schnauzer and a Whippet?

The Miniature Schnauzer is 11–20 lbs, 12–14 in sized while the Whippet is 25–40 lbs, 18–22 in sized. They differ in size (11–20 lbs, 12–14 in vs 25–40 lbs, 18–22 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Miniature Schnauzer or Whippet?

Miniature Schnauzer is generally good with kids. Whippet is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Miniature Schnauzer or Whippet?

The Miniature Schnauzer has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Whippet has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

Miniature Schnauzer vs Whippet — Breed Comparison

About the Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer was developed in Germany in the late 19th century by crossing Standard Schnauzers with smaller breeds like the Affenpinscher and Poodle. These sturdy little dogs stand 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh 11 to 20 pounds, carrying a distinctive wiry double coat in salt and pepper, black and silver, solid black, or white. Their trademark bushy eyebrows, full beard, and cropped or natural ears give them an unmistakably distinguished appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Miniature Schnauzers are spirited, friendly, and remarkably obedient — consistently ranking among the most popular terrier breeds in America. They bond closely with their families, are typically wonderful with children, and get along well with other household pets. Unlike many terrier breeds, they tend to be less aggressive toward other dogs, making them excellent all-around family companions.

Pros

Low-shedding wiry coat suitable for allergy-conscious households
Highly trainable and eager to please with consistent methods
Adaptable to apartments, suburbs, or rural settings equally well
Robust health with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years

Cons

Tendency to bark frequently — can be vocal about everything
Requires regular professional grooming or hand-stripping every 6 to 8 weeks
Susceptible to pancreatitis, urinary stones, and hyperlipidemia
Strong prey drive toward squirrels, rabbits, and other small animals outdoors

Discover your ideal Miniature Schnauzer companion — check available listings right here on Puplister.

About the Whippet

The Whippet was developed in Victorian England by coal miners and mill workers who bred small Greyhounds with terriers to create an affordable racing and rabbit-coursing dog — earning the nickname "the poor man's racehorse." These elegant sighthounds stand 18 to 22 inches tall and weigh 25 to 40 pounds, with a streamlined, aerodynamic build capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour. Their short, smooth coat comes in virtually any color or pattern and lies close to the body, accentuating their graceful, muscular contours.

Temperament & Personality

Whippets are gentle, quiet, and remarkably calm indoors — often spending hours draped elegantly across furniture in poses that would make a greyhound proud. They are affectionate and sensitive with their families, good with children (though their slender build makes them vulnerable to rough play), and generally friendly with other dogs. Despite their sprinting ability, Whippets are surprisingly low-energy at home and are often described as the ideal apartment dog for owners who enjoy outdoor exercise.

Pros

Extremely calm and quiet indoors — one of the most unobtrusive housemates
Short, low-maintenance coat with minimal shedding and no doggy odor
Gentle, affectionate nature — rarely aggressive toward people or other dogs
Healthy breed with a long lifespan of 12 to 15 years

Cons

Intense prey drive — will chase and potentially catch small animals including cats
Thin skin and low body fat make them sensitive to cold and prone to scrapes
Cannot be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas — once they run, they cannot hear you
Susceptible to anesthesia sensitivity and cardiac arrhythmias

Whippets are the perfect blend of couch companion and outdoor athlete — find one looking for a home on Puplister.

Miniature Schnauzer vs Whippet