Australian Shepherd

Herding · Medium

Miniature Schnauzer

Terrier · Small

Australian Shepherd vs Miniature Schnauzer

Side-by-side comparison of the Australian Shepherd and Miniature Schnauzer — size, temperament, shedding, trainability, cost, and compatibility ratings.

Quick comparison

Best for families

Australian Shepherd

Based on good-with-kids rating

Easier to train

Australian Shepherd

Based on trainability rating

Less shedding

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on shedding level

Better for apartments

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on apartment-friendly rating

Lower maintenance

Australian Shepherd

Based on grooming needs

Longer lifespan

Australian Shepherd

Based on average lifespan

Detailed comparison

Physical traits

Trait	Australian Shepherd	Miniature Schnauzer
Size	Medium	Small
Height	18–23″	12–14″
Weight	40–65 lbs	11–20 lbs
Lifespan	12–15 yrs	12–15 yrs
Group	Herding	Terrier
Coat type	Medium-length double coat, straight to wavy	Wiry double coat

Temperament & behavior

Trait	Australian Shepherd	Miniature Schnauzer
Energy level	Very High	High
Trainability	Very High	High
Barking level	Moderate	High

Compatibility

Trait	Australian Shepherd	Miniature Schnauzer
Good with kids	High	High
Good with dogs	High	High
Good with cats	Low	Moderate
Apartment friendly	Very Low	Very High

Care requirements

Trait	Australian Shepherd	Miniature Schnauzer
Shedding	High	Very Low
Grooming needs	Moderate	High
Daily exercise	60–120 min	30–60 min
Daily food	1.5–2.5 cups	0.5–1 cups
Annual cost	$1 300–$2 200	$1 100–$1 900

Temperament