Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Miniature Schnauzer |  West Highland White Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Germany | Scotland |
| Group | Utility | Terrier |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Coat | Wiry, dense double coat with beard and leg furnishings | Harsh, straight, double white coat |
| Weight | 5 to 9 kg | 7 to 10 kg |
| Height | 30 to 36 cm | 25 to 28 cm |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 yrs | 12 to 15 yrs |
| Exercise need | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Affection | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Grooming needs | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Barking | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Good with children | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Trainability | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Prey drive | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Copes alone | 4/10 | 4/10 |
| Drool | 1/10 | 1/10 |
| Shedding | 2/10 | 3/10 |
| Flat fit | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Running cost | €92 / month | €91 / month |
Miniature Schnauzer verdict
A sharp witted, wiry coated terrier type that watches the door and minds its diet in equal measure.
Get one if
- · Owners who want an alert, trainable small dog with real character
- · Families with older, sensible children who enjoy an active small breed
- · People willing to commit to a strict, low fat feeding routine
Think again if
- · Households wanting a dog that can share rich table scraps freely
- · Owners unwilling to manage barking at visitors or passers by
- · Anyone hoping for a coat that needs no professional grooming
West Highland White Terrier verdict
A small white terrier with a huge sense of self, bred to dig, bark and stand its ground.
Get one if
- · Owners who want a sturdy, characterful small dog with genuine personality
- · Households with a securely fenced garden and no precious flower borders
- · Families with older children who understand calm, respectful handling
Think again if
- · Owners wanting a quiet dog that rarely barks
- · Households with small pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs
- · Gardeners who cannot tolerate digging