Will a Schnauzer Shed?

Schnauzers actually come in three types. Miniature schnauzers are the smallest and the most widely found. Standard schnauzers are midsize, and giant schnauzers, as the name implies, are the largest.

The miniature schnauzer has a double coat. The outer coat is coarse and wiry with a shorter, softer undercoat. Minis shed very little and have very little odor, but they do require regular maintenance and grooming. You will need to brush your mini at least twice a week to prevent matting and have him trimmed with clippers typically every six to eight weeks by a professional groomer. Your mini’s coat will become softer and sometimes lighter in color with regular clipping.

Standard schnauzers have a coat similar to miniature schnauzers. They shed minimally and require the same maintenance and grooming as the minis. A standard may be a good candidate for you if you want a medium-sized dog who won’t leave your car covered in fur.

Giant schnauzers have the same type of coat as the minis and standards. However, simply because they are larger, giant schnauzers have more noticeable shedding of their undercoat than miniature and standard schnauzers. You won't see as much fallen hair as you would with heavy shedding breeds like shepherds and collies, but you will see some hair coming out. With frequent brushing and grooming, you can keep a giant’s shedding to a minimum, but you’ll still probably notice hair on lighter colored floors, carpet, clothing, etc.

If you find that one of the schnauzer breeds seem like a good fit for your home and lifestyle, but you have allergies, be sure to spend some time around the breed before bringing one home.