Schnoodles look just like your favorite stuffed teddy bear — and their personalities are just as cute. Being mixed-breed dogs, their coat and appearance vary depending on the genes passed down by their parents. They may have the smooth, wavy coat and cute curls of a Poodle or the wiry coat of a Schnauzer.

Most Schnoodles are solid colors in shades of black, white, silver, gray, brown, and apricot. Some are also black and white or black and tan.

Like their Poodle parents, Schnoodles are a low-shedding breed. These dogs have hair instead of fur, and unlike fur coats that grow to a point and then shed, their hair keeps growing and tends to fall back into their coats instead of all over your house.

Schnoodles still need regular grooming. Using a slicker brush on their coats two to three times per week will keep their hair free from mats and tangles. Because their hair continues growing, make an appointment with the groomer every four to six weeks.

Schnoodles have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. As a mixed-breed dog, Schnoodles often enjoy a longer lifespan than purebred dogs.

Schnoodles typically stop growing between 10 and 12 months old. Even after Schnoodle puppies stop growing, their puppy energy often remains. While they may not be as hyper as they were as tiny puppies, they still retain a playful and energetic spirit.

Schnoodles can weigh as little as nine pounds and as much as 100 pounds. The huge size range results from the fact that the parents can be a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle and a Miniature, Standard, or Giant Schnauzer. 

The smallest Schnoodle, a Miniature Schnoodle — a mix between a Toy Poodle and a Miniature Schnauzer — weighs nine to 15 pounds. Miniature Poodles and Standard Schnauzers weigh around 15 to 30 pounds, and so can their offspring. Larger Schnoodles weigh 30 to 50 pounds. Giant Schnoodles weigh 55 to 85 pounds.

Schnoodles are a generally healthy breed, but they can suffer from some common health issues. Schnauzers and Poodles are prone to health conditions, including luxating patella (slipped knee), epilepsy, diabetes, and more. Other health problems they are at higher risk for include:

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): PRA is a genetic disease that causes blindness in both eyes. There is no effective treatment to stop PRA.

• Von Willebrand disease (VWD): VWD is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in dogs. It’s diagnosed when a dog doesn’t produce enough of a specific protein that helps the blood clot, which can lead to poor clotting, hemorrhages, or other bleeding issues.  

• Hip and elbow dysplasia: Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are skeletal diseases that cause abnormal development of the joints, leading to grinding and pain. In dogs with hip or elbow dysplasia, joints rub or grind instead of sliding smoothly. It can cause pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery may be needed in serious cases.

It’s important to remember that though this breed might have an increased risk for certain health conditions, they won’t necessarily develop them.  Mixed-breed dogs are often healthier than purebred dogs because of greater genetic diversity. Your veterinarian can help you watch for health problems with regular checkups.

Yes, Schnoodles are considered hypoallergenic. They inherit their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats from their Poodle parent. But it’s important to note that no dog breed is completely allergen-free. Some people with allergies may still react to Schnoodle dander or saliva.

Schnoodles originated in the United States. They were bred for their hypoallergenic coats and friendly personalities.

Yes, Schnoodles are active and athletic dogs. The dogs love long walks, swimming, and dog sports, such as agility, retrieving, obedience, rally, and other fast-paced ways to burn off energy. They enjoy spending time with their families and thrive on being part of family activities and adventures. If they have too much time alone, Schnoodles might become bored and misbehave.

Yes, the Schnoodle is a good breed. The Schnoodle’s sensitive natures and eager-to-please personalities mean they often pick up on the moods of those around them, and that intuition makes them great therapy and assistance dogs. Schnoodles also excel in police work, herding, and search-and-rescue work.

Yes, Schnoodles bark. Giant and Standard Schnauzers have what is often described as a deep and robust bark, and Poodles are known for barking at unfamiliar people and sounds. However, training and socializing your Schnoodle can help prevent excessive barking and other less-welcome behaviors.

Yes, Schnoodles can be left alone, but they love their people and would prefer to spend as little time alone as possible. Without sufficient attention and interaction, Schnoodles can develop separation anxiety and may become destructive or lead to barking. The same thing can happen if the active, athletic breed doesn’t get sufficient exercise.

Yes, Schnoodles can make excellent family dogs in the right environment. They need lots of exercise, mental stimulation, attention, and affection to be happy and healthy. Families who can meet their needs — with long walks, interactive games, and training exercises — will be rewarded with loyal, loving companions.

Yes, Schnoodles are easy to train. You’ll find your Schnoodle at the head of the class when it comes to training. They are intelligent dogs but tend to be a bit stubborn, too. Use treats, toys, and reward-based training to encourage them to learn new things. But start them in a consistent training program at an early age to keep things exciting. Schnoodles get bored easily and dislike the monotony of repetitive training. Just keep in mind that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.