Golden Retriever

Sporting · Large

Miniature Schnauzer

Terrier · Small

Golden Retriever vs Miniature Schnauzer

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

Quick comparison

Best for families

Golden Retriever

Based on good-with-kids rating

Easier to train

Golden Retriever

Based on trainability rating

Less shedding

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on shedding level

Better for apartments

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on apartment-friendly rating

Lower maintenance

Golden Retriever

Based on grooming needs

Longer lifespan

Miniature Schnauzer

Based on average lifespan

Detailed comparison

Physical traits

Trait	Golden Retriever	Miniature Schnauzer
Size	Large	Small
Height	21.5–24″	12–14″
Weight	55–75 lbs	11–20 lbs
Lifespan	10–12 yrs	12–15 yrs
Group	Sporting	Terrier
Coat type	Double coat, long and wavy	Wiry double coat

Temperament & behavior

Trait	Golden Retriever	Miniature Schnauzer
Energy level	High	High
Trainability	Very High	High
Barking level	Moderate	High

Compatibility

Trait	Golden Retriever	Miniature Schnauzer
Good with kids	Very High	High
Good with dogs	Very High	High
Good with cats	High	Moderate
Apartment friendly	Low	Very High

Care requirements

Trait	Golden Retriever	Miniature Schnauzer
Shedding	Very High	Very Low
Grooming needs	Moderate	High
Daily exercise	60–120 min	30–60 min
Daily food	2–3 cups	0.5–1 cups
Annual cost	$1 500–$2 800	$1 100–$1 900

Temperament