Miniature Schnauzer vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison

Miniature Schnauzer vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed ComparisonBoth Miniature Schnauzer and German Shorthaired Pointer are originated from Germany. Miniature Schnauzer may grow 27 cm / 10 inches shorter than German Shorthaired Pointer. Miniature Schnauzer may weigh 22 kg / 48 pounds lesser than German Shorthaired Pointer. Both Miniature Schnauzer and German Shorthaired Pointer has almost same life span. Miniature Schnauzer may have less litter size than German Shorthaired Pointer. Miniature Schnauzer requires Moderate maintenance. But German Shorthaired Pointer requires Low maintenance

History

miniature schnauzer - historyMiniature Schnauzers were first bred in Germany in the 19th century being bred from Affenpinschers and Standard Schnauzers.

This dog was always used to control rats on farms, but these days he is more a companion. It is believed that the start of the modern Miniature Schnauzer in the United States was around 1924 when dogs were imported from Germany.

It was in 1933 that the Miniature Schnauzer was recognized by the AKC as a separate breed from the Standard Schnauzer.

german shorthaired pointer - historyBeing a member of the Sporting Group, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a dog which was developed in the 19th century in Germany, and specifically for hunting. Hunters wanted a dog who could hunt all types of game and in all types of terrain.

There are quite a few different theories that exist regarding the origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer, but most experts believe that the breed came from a mix of old Spanish pointer and traditional continental pointers with further crossings of German Bloodhound and French Gascon to enhance scenting abilities.

The dogs popularity flourished in Europe and in 1891 the Klub Kurzhaar was founded to maintain the guidelines for this new and beautiful sporting dog.

Description

miniature schnauzer puppy - descriptionThe Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog breed that stands between 30 to 36cm in height and weighs between 5 and 10kg.

He has a sturdy body with a dense, wiry coat which most people prefer to have stripped. Because stripping is quite tedious, many of these dog owners prefer to have the coat clipped which actually gives the coat a greyish look to it.

The coat is usually a mix of black and silver. Some people refer to the Miniature Schnauzer as having a salt-and-pepper coat – hairs that are a mix of black and white. The dog has a double coat with the outer coat being wiry and the undercoat being a lot softer.

This is a dog that will need to be groomed frequently to prevent matting. A noticeable feature with these dogs is the rectangular shaped head with alert slanted eyes and bushy eyebrows, mustache and beard. In fact the word ‘Schnauzer’ means beard or muzzle.

The ears have been traditionally cropped but these days they are left and then they tend to be half-erect, half-floppy.

Temperament:

This is a tough little dog, fearless, cheeky, arrogant, alert and also friendly. A draw-card with him is that he is considered as a low-shedder and being hypoallergenic.

They’re very intelligent dogs too and will learn quickly when you give him training and socialization. This is important for a dog like this as he can quickly show you that he is strong willed and independent. Training and socialization makes him much nicer as he becomes more balanced and obedient.

He is full of life and extroverted and you can count on him to join you wherever you are and whatever you’re doing. Whether watching TV, swimming or hiking, he’ll be there and turn every occasion into a festive event. He is a loving, loyal dog, making a splendid pet.

He's protective of his human family and tends to be suspicious of strangers, and this is what makes him such a great watchdog.

german shorthaired pointer puppy - descriptionAthletic, muscular and sleek, the medium to large sized German Shorthaired Pointer is at home on land and water. He stands between 53 to 63cm in height and weighs roughly between 20 – 32kg.

The eyes are brown, the ears are fairly long, they are floppy and set high on the head. The tail is always docked to a particular length and is held straight out from the body so that it actually forms a line with the entire body and the head.

The dog has a short coat which is essentially a combination of liver and white speckles or dappling.

Temperament:

A whole lot of factors come into play when looking at the temperament of a dog. The kind of owners the dog has can have a huge affect on the way he turns out. Nonetheless every dog, including the German Shorthaired Pointer will require training and socialization to become obedient and relaxed around strangers and other pets.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is an intelligent, confident, bold, affectionate dog that wants to please his owners and he is easy to train. He is good with children too, just loving all interaction with his human family.

He is an energetic dog and will require plenty of exercising to avoid him becoming bored, frustrated and destructive.

Characteristics

miniature schnauzer dog - characteristicsMiniature Schnauzers are such adaptable little dogs, quite happy to make a home with you in the city or in the countryside.

They’re sociable dogs, so just being with his human family wherever they are will suit him well. If he lives in the city however, he will need to have a walk everyday or taken to the park for a run.

He is also a dog that scarcely sheds, so he suits people battling with allergies. With an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, if you nurture your Mini Schnauzer and give him the best food and exercise there is, as well as loving him, you’re going to have a loyal and devoted pet.

german shorthaired pointer dog - characteristicsAs an intelligent hunting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is also a loving family companion and he just loves spending time outdoors with his human family.

He is pretty much an all-rounder – playful, energetic, a good watchdog and a loving and devoted family friend.

For an active, outdoor kind of family, include the German Shorthaired Pointer in all your activities and you’re going to ensure that you have a most wonderful 4-legged friend.

Health Problems

miniature schnauzer puppies - health problemsYour Miniature Schnauzer is pretty healthy and he isn’t likely to cost you much in terms of vet fees. There are however some common dog problems that you want to be aware of such as cataracts of the eye and hypothyroidism.

Cataract:

This a a problem in the lens of the eye. The lens should be clear, and when a dog has a cataract, it obscures the vision. The size of the cataract can lead to blindness.

Diabetes in a dog can bring on cataracts as can genetics or damage to the eye from exposure to ultraviolet light. Fortunately, dogs with cataracts can still see. Dogs with old cataracts can have surgery to remove them.

When a dog owner suspects a cataract in their pet’s eye it is best to treat it immediately with anti-inflammatory dog cataract eye drops. Cataracts never go away however without surgery.

Hypothyroidism:

The thyroid gland in the neck produces a hormone called thyroxine. It controls metabolism, but with hypothyroidism, enough of the hormone isn’t made. Its a common disease which affects all dog breeds.

Signs of hypothyroidism include hair loss, weight gain, intolerance to cold and a troublesome skin. To have the disease diagnosed, the vet will do a series of blood tests.

german shorthaired pointer puppies - health problemsMost German Shorthaired Pointers are healthy dogs, but even so, just like with any other dog breed, they can be subject to some hereditary disorders as well as some of the other common dog illnesses there are -

Chocolate poisoning:

Dogs are such devoted family members that you just want to give in to them and pop the chocolate treats you love into their mouths. But dog’s can’t eat chocolate! Just one piece can affect a small dog. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include diarrhea,vomiting, panting and shaking and even worse, a heart attack. If your dog has got hold of some chocolate, get him to the vet immediately.

Parvo:

Your German Shorthaired Pointer, as a puppy, should have his puppy vaccines. If your dog has this terrible disease, he will be lethargic, have diarrhea and almost seem out of it. Survival isn’t always guaranteed and the best way to avoid this killer disease, is to ensure your puppies vaccinations are up to date.

Bloat:

Check your pet for Bloat or an enlarged stomach which can twist because of trapped gas. This can be deadly for your pet. Get him immediately to the vet. He’ll be restless, lethargic and trying to vomit.

Caring The Pet

miniature schnauzer dogs - caringLet’s look at several ways you need to care for your Miniature Schnauzer -

Make sure you have his puppy injections on time. This means knowing which veterinarian you’ll use. Later on if you don’t want to go in for breeding, you will need to have your pet spayed or neutered.

Make sure you have a nice warm, dry spot for your dog to sleep. It can be a cardboard box, or you can buy a dog basket or sleeping platform. Make sure your pet loves it and knows he can retreat to it anytime he wants.

If he goes outside for a few hours, make sure that he has a place to lie in the shade and away from the elements.

Good food promotes good health and longevity. You can feed your pet one of the top quality commercially manufactured foods and give your pet some variety by adding in some boiled chicken, vegetables and brown rice. Some raw meat occasionally can also be excellent for your pet.

Grooming:

german shorthaired pointer dogs - caringThe German Shorthaired Pointer isn’t a heavy shedder. He has a short coat which requires brushing at least twice a week to remove loose hairs and keep it shiny and sleek.

Also check in- and outside the ears, clip his nails and brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week.

Diet:

Only the highest grade kibble will do. Mix in some of your own home-made cooked brown rice, vegetables and chicken from time to time and also ensure your pet gets in some raw meat as well. Cool, fresh water should be constantly available.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Gun dog
Origin:
Germany
Germany
Height Male:
30 - 36 cm
11 - 15 inches
53 - 63 cm
20 - 25 inches
Height Female:
30 - 36 cm
11 - 15 inches
53 - 63 cm
20 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
20 - 32 kg
44 - 71 pounds
Weight Female:
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
20 - 32 kg
44 - 71 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
7 - 12
Size:
Small dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Zwergschnauzer (Dwarf Schnauzer)
Deutsch Kurzhaar, GSP
Colors Available:
salt-and-pepper coat – mix of black and white. , Black and silver
Liver - ticked or speckled
Coat:
Double, wiry medium-length coat
Short and smooth
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Detached, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Miniature Schnauzer vs Boston Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Miniature Schnauzer vs Jack Russell Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Miniature Schnauzer vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Miniature Schnauzer vs Cairn Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Miniature Schnauzer vs Border Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Miniature Schnauzer vs Australian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Miniature Schnauzer vs American Hairless Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Miniature Schnauzer vs Bull Terrier Miniature - Breed Comparison
  9. Miniature Schnauzer vs English White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Miniature Schnauzer vs Feist - Breed Comparison
  11. Miniature Schnauzer vs Manchester Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Miniature Schnauzer vs Dandie Dinmont Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Miniature Schnauzer vs Miniature Fox Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Miniature Schnauzer vs Cesky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Miniature Schnauzer vs Glen of Imaal Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Miniature Schnauzer vs Chilean Fox Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Miniature Schnauzer vs Black and Tan Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Miniature Schnauzer vs Cairland Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Miniature Schnauzer vs Fell Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. Miniature Schnauzer vs Lucas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Miniature Schnauzer vs Kaikadi - Breed Comparison
  22. Rat Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  23. Scottish Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  24. Patterdale Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  25. Norwich Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  26. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  27. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Bracco Italiano - Breed Comparison
  28. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Braque Francais (Gascogne Type) - Breed Comparison
  29. Irish Setter vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  30. Portuguese Pointer vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  31. Perdiguero de Burgos vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  32. Irish Red and White Setter vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  33. Pachon Navarro vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  34. Grand Gascon Saintongeois vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  35. Slovakian Rough Haired Pointer vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  36. Slovensky Hrubosrsty Stavac vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  37. Smooth Haired Weimaraner vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Spanish Pointer vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  39. Spinone Italiano vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  40. Talbot vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  41. Vikhan Sheepdog vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  42. Weimaraner vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  43. Longhaired Weimaraner vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  44. Samoyed vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  45. Labradoodle vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  46. Mixed vs German Shorthaired Pointer - Breed Comparison
  47. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  48. German Shorthaired Pointer vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  49. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds