Standard Schnauzer vs Chinese Crested
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Standard Schnauzer
Working Group
Chinese Crested
Toy Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Standard Schnauzer Overview
Standard Schnauzers embody a perfect blend of strength and elegance, featuring a distinctive beard and eyebrows that frame their alert, intelligent expression. Their robust, square-built body is covered in a wiry, salt-and-pepper or black double coat. Known for their fearless yet friendly demeanor, these medium-sized dogs combine the agility of a working breed with the devoted nature of a family companion.
Chinese Crested Overview
Graceful and elegant, the Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: the hairless with silky hair on head, tail, and feet, and the Powderpuff with a full soft coat. Their fine-boned, slender body carries them with a light, flowing gait. Distinguished by their alert expression and vivacious personality, these dogs combine exotic looks with a warm, affectionate nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Standard Schnauzers are less energetic than Chinese Cresteds, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Standard Schnauzers require more grooming attention compared to Chinese Cresteds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Standard Schnauzers tend to be more reserved with strangers than Chinese Cresteds.
- Trainability: Chinese Cresteds may be slightly easier to train due to their Chinese Crested's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Chinese Cresteds adapt better to apartment living, while Standard Schnauzers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Standard Schnauzer and Chinese Crested, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Chinese Crested |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 13-16 years | 13-18 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Working Group | Toy Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Chinese Crested |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 18-20 inches 44-50 cm | 11-13 inches 28-33 cm |
| Weight | 30-50 lbs 14-23 kg | 8-12 lbs 4-5 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Infrequent |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Chinese Crested |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Fearless, Smart, Spirited | Affectionate, Alert, Lively |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Chinese Crested |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Standard Schnauzer Temperament
The Standard Schnauzer is known for being fearless, smart, spirited, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Chinese Crested Temperament
The Chinese Crested is characterized by being affectionate, alert, lively, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Standard Schnauzer and Chinese Crested, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 5/5
Chinese Crested
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Chinese Crested
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Chinese Crested
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 2/5
Chinese Crested
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 4/5
Chinese Crested
Rating: 2/5
Care & Maintenance
Standard Schnauzer Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Standard Schnauzers require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Standard Schnauzers require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Chinese Crested Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Chinese Cresteds need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Chinese Cresteds require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Standard Schnauzer Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Heart Disease
- Kidney Stones
- Pancreatitis
Chinese Crested Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Patellar Luxation
- Primary Lens Luxation
- Glaucoma
- Legg-Calve-Perthes
Pros & Cons
Standard Schnauzer
Pros
- Intelligent and trainable
- Minimal shedding
- Excellent watchdog
- Good with families
- Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
- Regular grooming required
- Can be stubborn
- Needs consistent exercise
- May be territorial
- Professional grooming costs
Chinese Crested
Pros
- Excellent companion dog
- Minimal shedding
- Good for apartment living
- Affectionate with family
Cons
- Requires skin care (hairless variety)
- Sensitive to extreme temperatures
- Can be yappy
- May be difficult to housebreak
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Standard Schnauzer and Chinese Crested, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.