Standard Schnauzer vs Harrier
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
Harrier
Hound 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.
Harrier Overview
Harriers are medium-sized hounds with a muscular build and classic hunting dog appearance. Their short, dense coat comes in a variety of colors including tricolor and red and white. Distinguished by their long, dropped ears, broad muzzle, and powerful legs, Harriers possess remarkable stamina and agility. Their friendly expression and well-proportioned frame reflect their dual heritage as both pack hunters and family companions.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Standard Schnauzers are less energetic than Harriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Standard Schnauzers require more grooming attention compared to Harriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Standard Schnauzers tend to be more reserved with strangers than Harriers.
- Trainability: Harriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Harrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Standard Schnauzers adapt better to apartment living, while Harriers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Standard Schnauzer and Harrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Harrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 13-16 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Working Group | Hound Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Harrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 18-20 inches 44-50 cm | 19-21 inches 48-53 cm |
| Weight | 30-50 lbs 14-23 kg | 45-60 lbs 20-27 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Harrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Fearless, Smart, Spirited | Friendly, Outgoing, People-Oriented |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Standard Schnauzer | Harrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Harrier Temperament
The Harrier is characterized by being friendly, outgoing, people-oriented, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Standard Schnauzer and Harrier, 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
Harrier
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Harrier
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Harrier
Rating: 5/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 2/5
Harrier
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Standard Schnauzer
Rating: 4/5
Harrier
Rating: 3/5
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.
Harrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Harriers need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Harriers 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
Harrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Eye Problems
- Hypothyroidism
- Bloat
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
Harrier
Pros
- Excellent family companion
- Good with children
- Athletic and energetic
- Social and friendly
- Low grooming needs
Cons
- High exercise requirements
- Strong hunting instincts
- Can be vocal
- Needs secure fencing
- Not apartment suitable
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Standard Schnauzer and Harrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.