What is the difference between a Miniature Schnauzer and a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?

The Miniature Schnauzer is 11–20 lbs, 12–14 in sized while the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is 50–70 lbs, 20–24 in sized. They differ in size (11–20 lbs, 12–14 in vs 50–70 lbs, 20–24 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Miniature Schnauzer or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?

Miniature Schnauzer is generally good with kids. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Miniature Schnauzer or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?

The Miniature Schnauzer has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

Miniature Schnauzer vs Wirehaired Pointing Griffon — 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 Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed in the late 19th century by Dutch breeder Eduard Karel Korthals, who meticulously crossed French and German griffons, setters, spaniels, and pointers to create what he considered the "supreme gundog." These medium-sized sporting dogs stand 20 to 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds, with a robust build that balances power with agility. Their distinctive coat features a harsh, wiry outer layer over a dense, water-resistant undercoat — typically in steel gray with brown markings, though roan, brown, and white and brown patterns also occur.

Temperament & Personality

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are eager, devoted, and remarkably trainable — often called the "supreme gundog" not just for their versatile field skills but for their cooperative, people-focused temperament. They are gentle and patient with children, friendly with other dogs, and form strong bonds with every family member rather than fixating on a single person. Their enthusiasm for both work and play, combined with a gentle disposition, makes them outstanding all-around family companions for active households.

Pros

Versatile sporting dog — points, retrieves, and works in water and thick cover equally well
Low-shedding wiry coat suitable for allergy-conscious owners
Devoted and affectionate family dog with a gentle, trainable nature
Adaptable and eager to please — excels in multiple canine sports and disciplines

Cons

High exercise requirements — needs vigorous daily activity and mental stimulation
Coat requires regular hand-stripping or professional grooming to maintain texture
Can become anxious, clingy, or destructive without adequate exercise and companionship
Prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and ear infections

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a rare treasure among sporting breeds — see if one is available on Puplister.

Miniature Schnauzer vs Wirehaired Pointing Griffon