The Schnauzer German Shepherd mix is a crossbreed dog that combines the feisty spirit of the Schnauzer with the brainpower and devotion of the German Shepherd.
This hybrid is relatively new and pretty rare, although it’s been gaining popularity in recent years. Further, its remarkable looks and endearing characteristics contribute to its appeal as a household pet.
That said, this article will provide everything you need to know about the Schnauzer German Shepherd mix, whether you’re already an owner or considering getting one!
Breed Overview
| Height: | 22 – 26 inches |
| Weight: | 65 – 90 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
| Coat Colors: | Black, white, sable, black and tan, white and gray |
| Temperament: | Outgoing, loyal, alert, confident |
| Suitable for: | Families with children; active families; being a watchdog |
What Is a German Schnauzer?
The Schnauzer German Shepherd mix, or German Schnauzer, is a crossbreed that combines the best characteristics of the Schnauzer and the German Shepherd. When these two working breeds are combined, you can expect a large dog that is protective, faithful, and lovable.
The heritage of German Schnauzers as working dogs means they are versatile and can be taught to do things like guarding or hunting. These dogs take their role as protectors seriously and are known for their ferocity.
However, the German Schnauzer cannot be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) or any other major kennel association because of its hybrid status, even though its parents are recognized breeds.
German Schnauzer Origin and History
As a crossbreed, there is little information about the origins of this very uncommon mix. However, by examining each parent breed’s history, you can determine what to expect from this dog.
It is thought that German Shepherds and Schnauzers were first bred in Germany to serve as farm and home security dogs.
The German word schnauze, which means snout, is where the Schnauzer took its name. This certainly alludes to the magnificent whiskers that grow on a Schnauzer’s muzzle that give it its distinctive appearance.
These dogs’ many jobs included herding cattle, chasing away rodents, and guarding their owners on the way to the market.
Meanwhile, Von Stephanitz started developing the German Shepherd in 1899 after being inspired by local domestic shepherding dogs.
He focused on improving the breed so that it would make a good working dog by only breeding pups with steady temperaments and lots of energy.
These days, German Schnauzers are bred more for companionship than other purposes. Still, they’ll undoubtedly take on their parents’ characteristics and behaviors.
German Schnauzer Appearance
Schnauzer German Shepherd mixes typically take after their parents’ traits. They can be found in many different colors, including black, white, and sable, and often have a long, thick coat.
One of the breed’s most distinctive features is its thick, wiry coat. While their outer coats may appear rough, the dense underfur that helps keep them warm in the winter is soft and silky.
They resemble Schnauzers more than German Shepherds. They have mustaches that extend over their chins and mouths. They also have tiny, triangular ears that rise upright on top of their heads like little wings.
German Schnauzer Size and Weight
The Schnauzer German Shepherd is a large dog breed, particularly if it has been crossed with a Giant Schnauzer. They weigh between 65 and 90 pounds and have a height of 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder.
If size concerns are holding you back from getting a Schnauzer German Shepherd mix, think about getting one that is Standard Schnauzer mixed instead.
Most Schnauzer German Shepherd mixes can develop to their full size within the span of a year and a half if given the right diet and vitamins.
German Schnauzer Temperament and Personality
German Schnauzers are a cross of two energetic, vigorous working breeds. Therefore, you can expect them to have these traits as well.
They are renowned for being affectionate and playful pets. They love spending as much time as possible with their family and are fiercely devoted to them.
If raised with children and other animals, they get along well with them. Yet, they are often cautious around new people because of their natural protective tendencies.
These dogs need early and consistent socialization and obedience training to prevent them from becoming overprotective or aggressive.
They are also smart and eager to please their owners. They can swiftly pick up new skills and commands. However, they do have strong personalities and can occasionally be stubborn.
German Schnauzer Lifespan and Health Issues
The lifespan of a Schnauzer German Shepherd mix is about the same as its parent breeds at around 10 to 12 years. However, they are prone to the same hereditary and acquired health issues that affect all dogs.
The following are some of the Schnauzer German Shepherd mix’s typical health issues:
- Hip Dysplasia: Large breed dogs, like German Schnauzers, are particularly prone to hip dysplasia. It’s a hereditary condition that is influenced by dietary choices, environmental conditions, physical activities, growth rate, and hormone levels. Weakness and soreness in the hind legs are symptoms to look out for.
- Bloat or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): Too much food consumed too quickly, followed by strenuous exercise, can lead to gas formation in the dog’s digestive tract. If the dog is unable to release the gas, the resulting bloat can make it hard for it to breathe, leading to potentially deadly shock.
- Diabetes: German Schnauzers are prone to diabetes because of their big size and their tendency to overeat if given a chance. Fatigue, a dry mouth, frequent drinking, excessive peeing, and foot swelling are all symptoms. This might be an inherited condition or the result of environmental factors. Regardless, diabetes is manageable with a healthy lifestyle that includes eating well and exercising regularly.
Being an informed dog parent is the most important step you can take toward ensuring your dog’s long and happy life. Taking it to the vet regularly will also help maintain its healthy disposition in the long run.
How to Take Care of Your Schnauzer German Shepherd Mix
It’s important to know how to properly take care of a German Schnauzer mix. Raising a dog requires hard work, but the rewards of having a happy, healthy pet make an effort worthwhile.
Every breed has unique nutrition, training, grooming, and activity requirements, and the German Schnauzer is no exception. These needs must be met for them to maintain good health.
Food and Diet
Daily feedings of two to three cups of food are typically required for German Schnauzers. Dogs of different sizes have different dietary requirements. Hence, you must tailor your dog’s meals based on size.
It also matters what kind of dog food you feed them. A higher quality dog food will go further in nourishing your dog.
Keep in mind that your German Schnauzer should get at least 25% of its calories from crude protein in addition to healthy fats and carbohydrates for optimal growth and development.
However, your dog may require additional supplements depending on its individual needs.
Don’t forget to give them lots of water regularly for proper hydration. Keeping them indoors under air conditioning is also recommended, as they have a low heat tolerance.
Furthermore, treats every now and again will do wonders for your dog’s happiness. It’s a terrific method to show your dog how much you appreciate good behavior, but you should limit its use.
Cleaning and Grooming
The coat types your Schnauzer German Shepherd mix inherits will dictate its grooming needs. There is a significant difference in texture, although both parent breeds have double coats.
Schnauzers need regular brushing to keep their coats from matting because of their rough, wiry texture. They also require regular clipping or trimming.
On the other hand, the German Shepherd’s dense, medium-length coat sheds heavily twice a year. You should brush them at least twice a week all year round and more frequently when they are shedding.
Additionally, bathing will help your dog smell less, but you should only give it a bath once a month at most because overwashing can lead to dry, itchy skin.
Training and Exercise
The German Schnauzer mix is a highly energetic dog. It needs both physical activity and training to develop into a healthy canine companion.
Obedience training is a must for German Schnauzers. This will make it easier for you to handle them as they become accustomed to your household’s regulations.
Because of their high energy levels, these hybrids require regular exercise for their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. A minimum of an hour of daily activity is recommended.
Nonetheless, some German Schnauzers may require more exercise than others and may always appear to be in good spirits.
Given the inherent guarding instincts of this hybrid, off-leash roaming is essential. However, if you don’t have a fenced-in property, its recall must be trained rigorously.
Watch this video to see a German Schnauzer pup in training:
How Much Does a German Schnauzer Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
Depending on the breeder and your location, the cost of a Schnauzer German Shepherd mix puppy can vary. Puppies from reputable breeders can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000.
If you are on a tight budget, you might be able to adopt one from a rescue or shelter for $100 to $350. While adoption is a great option in many cases, the likelihood of finding this hybrid is quite low.
The estimated initial cost of owning a German Schnauzer puppy is provided in the table below:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $100 – $120 |
| Food and Water Bowls | $15 – $35 |
| Bed | $50 – $200 |
| Crate | $60 – $500 |
| Leashes and Collars | $15 – $50 |
| Toys | $30 – $50 |
| Grooming Essentials | $40 – $180 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $50 – $200 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $300 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $75 – $200 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Microchip | $40 – $60 |
| Miscellaneous Supplies | $15 – $30 |
| Total Initial Cost | $650 – $2,445 |
In addition to the costs listed in this table, pet insurance can aid you in being financially prepared for unforeseen events or unexpected veterinary visits.
Places to Find German Schnauzer Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Since the Schnauzer German Shepherd mix is a relatively new breed, finding one could be challenging.
Fortunately, plenty of information online can assist you in finding this crossbreed.
Here are a few places where you might find Schnauzer German Shepherd mix puppies:
- AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is a fantastic resource for anyone wishing to purchase a German Schnauzer. All of the breeders featured on this site are AKC-approved. Each puppy listed in the AKC Marketplace comes with a full profile, including information about its parents, proof of health, and images.
- Greenfield Puppies – This reputable website has been around since 2000. They guarantee that the puppy you bring home has the best possible temperament and health. If you’re in the market for a German Schnauzer puppy, you’ll love the site’s search tools, which let you narrow down available canines by area, price, and more. In addition, a 30-day health guarantee is provided upon purchase.
- Keystone Puppies – Keystone Puppies is a trusted online site where several reputable breeders list available puppies for sale. Keystone Puppies always does a background check on the puppy breeders to make sure they are legitimate. Purchasing your Schnauzer German Shepherd mix from Keystone Puppies will guarantee a smooth delivery process.
The suggestions listed above should make it easier for you to find a healthy, happy German Schnauzer puppy.
However, if you would rather adopt a dog than buy one, the following are some organizations that might be able to help you acquire a Schnauzer German Shepherd mix:
- Adopt-a-Pet – Adopt-a-Pet can help you locate adoptable pets in your region. This website provides a database of dogs available for adoption from various sources, such as shelters, rescue groups, and private owners.
- Petfinder – Petfinder is one of the most popular websites dedicated to finding new homes for abandoned pets. This directory features about 11,000 animal shelters and adoption groups in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. You might be able to locate your Schnauzer German Shepherd mix on this site.
- German Shepherd Dog Rescue Group of GA – Since its establishment in 2004, this rescue has placed hundreds of German Shepherds in loving homes in the Greater Atlanta and North Georgia areas. They place the dogs they save in foster care until they find permanent homes for them.
Adopting a dog is a joyful and loving experience. In addition to gaining a devoted friend, you’ll be giving a dog that may have been neglected or abandoned a safe and caring environment to call its own.
Moreover, animal shelters and rescue organizations in the US get millions of animals each year.
Hence, there is a good chance that you will be able to find the German Schnauzer that you have been looking for at one of the rescues or adoption sites listed above.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Schnauzer German Shepherd Mix
There are benefits and drawbacks to having a German Schnauzer in your family, just as there are to bringing any dog into your home.
To help you determine if a German Schnauzer is the right dog for you, I’ve outlined some of the pros and cons of owning one.
Here are some benefits of having a German Schnauzer as a pet:
- Intelligent and trainable: The German Schnauzer inherits the intelligence of both its parent breeds. This pup will be a breeze to train as a result. In addition to being companion animals, they can also be trained to help around the house.
- Excellent guard dog: German Schnauzers are renowned for their protective temperament, making them good guard dogs. They are constantly on guard, conscious of their surroundings, and capable of spotting anything out of the ordinary.
- Good with children: German Schnauzers get along well with kids because of their gentle demeanor and adoring personalities. They have a reputation for being devoted companions and making excellent family pets.
- Great exercise companion: This hybrid is an energetic breed. They make excellent exercise companions since they demand a lot of physical activity.
As charming as they may be, German Schnauzers are not without their drawbacks. Here are some of them:
- Separation anxiety: German Schnauzers are very social dogs and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for an extended time. They require a great deal of interaction and care from their owners.
- Overprotective: These dogs tend to be overprotective of their owners and their territory, which can make them challenging to socialize with other people and pets.
- Heavy shedders: These hybrid dogs are constant shedders, but the shedding is particularly worse in the warmer, more humid months. Keeping their coat nice may also need regular trimming.
Having a dog is a major commitment, so you should take your time when deciding which pup is best for you. Now that you have this information, you can decide if a German Schnauzer is the right dog for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are German Schnauzers Good Dogs?
German Schnauzers are indeed fairly good dogs. Families and other pets get along well with them. They are brave, loving, passionate, and playful. They embody the best traits that dog lovers seek.
In addition, count on them to be extremely devoted, ready to defend and serve you at all costs.
Are Schnauzer German Shepherd Mixes Aggressive?
Schnauzer German Shepherd mixes are naturally protective, which might make them aggressive at times.
They may become hostile toward strangers and unknown dogs if they are provoked. Thus, early socialization is vital for this breed.
Do Schnauzer German Shepherd Mixes Shed?
Schnauzer German Shepherd mixes shed about as much as the average dog. While many of these pups don’t shed much, the opposite is true for those with coats more similar to their German Shepherd parent.
Are Schnauzer German Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?
It’s possible to breed a hypoallergenic dog from a Schnauzer and a German Shepherd, but it’s not guaranteed. This is due to the fact that the shedding tendencies of the two parent breeds are very different.
Schnauzers are hypoallergenic since they don’t shed their hair or produce dander.
German Shepherds, on the other hand, are thought to be moderate shedders and have thick, double coats that experience a significant shedding period twice a year.
Final Thoughts
For the right individual or family, having a Schnauzer German Shepherd mix as a pet can be a fulfilling and pleasurable experience.
These dogs have great instincts for protecting the people they love and are extremely bright and trainable. They are versatile dogs and can make good companions in any situation.
However, remember that they need frequent physical activity, mental stimulation, and socializing to avoid destructive boredom.
Overall, the German Schnauzer is a wonderful choice if you have an active family and are searching for a caring, loyal, and protective companion.
So, how do you feel about the idea of bringing home a Schnauzer German Shepherd mix? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section below!
