Boston Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer

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The decision to choose between Boston Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer can be tricky since the two breeds share a lot of features and traits. However, with a bit of knowledge and a clear understanding of what you want, you should be able to choose between the two without too much hassle.

Boston Terrier vs Miniature Schnauzer: General Overview 

Before looking at the similarities and differences between the two dog breeds, let’s quickly go over each breed. 

Miniature Schnauzer lying on the floor

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are medium-sized wire-haired-Pinscher-type dogs. Their first existence dates back to the 15 century in Bavaria.  While they were mainly rattling dogs, they could perform other general farm work when needed. The breed is a product of crossing Standard Schnauzer with Affenpinscher and other small dog breeds.

Miniature Schnauzers are small, sturdy breeds with muscular structures. You can always distinguish them from other dog breeds by their alert outlook and unique eyebrows, mustaches, and long hair.

Adult males grow up to 14 inches tall and weigh up to 17 pounds, while females grow to 12 inches and only weigh a maximum of 15 pounds. Their color complexions vary from salt and pepper, solid black, black with silvery marking, and white. However, purely white Miniature Schnauzers are very difficult to come by.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are small dogs with short square muzzles and standing ears. They are also strong, muscular with large round eyes that are wide apart. Their initial keepers used them as fighting dogs. Then later they became the marvelous family companions that they are today.

The short-coated breed comes in various colors. The most common complexions you will come across are bridle and white or black Terriers with white markings. Boston Terriers are a crossbreed between the English bulldog and an English white terrier and other small breeds.

Also known as the American Gentleman, this breed weighs between 15 pounds to 24 pounds. Adult males usually grow to 17 inches tall while females grow to 16 inches tall.

Similarities Between Boston Terriers and Miniature Schnauzers

You’ll find that both Boston Terriers and Miniature Schnauzers are similar in terms of: 

  • Energy levels 
  • Trainability
  • Friendliness to family members 

Both Have High Energy Levels

Boston Terrier and Miniature Schnauzers are both high energy dogs. They both need above-average exercise. I recommend that you spare a part of your schedule to have them engaged in physical activities. It will help them contain their agility and hyperactivity.

Their high energy levels also mean that they don’t spend much time sleeping.

Boston Terrier

Both are Easy to Train

The two breeds exhibit high levels of intelligence in dogs and are easy to train. Although they might be active and stubborn, they are obedient when communicated to and submissive to commands.

They are also both perfect social breeds with genuinely loyal, gentle, and loving temperament.

Boston Terrier and Miniature Schnauzers are highly adaptable to environments and lifestyles. With that, you can always train them on new things and tricks.

Both are Great Family Dogs

These dog breeds both do well in family set-up and are friendly to people of all ages, from kids to adults. They also get along with strangers, so you don’t need to worry about caging them for fear of hostility.

Their biting potential is also below average, meaning that they are unlikely to pose any threat or danger. These dogs do best when a family member or two are at home or if the environment is dog friendly.

Differences Between Boston Terrier and Miniature Schnauzers

While these dogs share a lot in common, you are likely to notice some differences among them. These include: 

  • Friendliness to Other Pets
  • Maintenance and Grooming

Friendliness to Other Pets

While both dogs are loving and adaptable, Miniature Schnauzers might sometimes be aggressive and territorial. Before learning how to co-exist, they will be rebellious and unwelcoming as they get used to the new mates.

Boston Terriers, on the other hand, are average defenders of their territories. They are friendlier and go well with any animal you have in your homestead.

Maintenance and Grooming

Miniature Schnauzers are heavy shedders because of their long coats. That, together with their playfulness, means that they require a lot of grooming to keep them tidy and healthy.

Miniature Schnauzer playing outdoors

Boston Terriers, on the other hand, are not heavy shedders and need low maintenance when it comes to grooming.  You only need to brush their coat twice or thrice a week to minimize plaque build-up.

Main Distinguishing Factor

The main distinguishing factor between the two lies in their physical appearances. Miniature Schnauzers have rectangular-shaped heads with bushy eyebrows and alert slanted eyes. 

They also have noticeable beards hence their name Schnauzer, meaning muzzle.  The dogs have cropped ears that are half-erect and half-floppy.

Boston Terriers, on the other hand, have square heads, short muzzles with big, large, and fully erect ears. They have shorter noses and large and round eyes, which are wide apart.

When to Get Miniature Schnauzers

The following are some of the instances when you might prefer Miniature Schnauzers over Boston Terriers:

  • When you don’t want to have other pets at home: While Miniature Schnauzers are friendly and lovable, they don’t do well around other pets, especially cats and other dogs. They tend to be more jealous and overprotective of their territories. Because of this, they would be a great addition to your homestead if you do not intend to mix them with other pets.
  • When you need a dog with great hunting instincts: Miniature Schnauzers have a better prey drive than Boston Terriers. They previously served as rattling dogs. Therefore, they are in a better position to drive away rodents and other small unwanted animals in the homestead.

When to Get Boston Terriers

These are instances when Boston Terriers are better than Miniature Schnauzers: 

  • When you need a dog that is easy to groom: Boston Terriers are less furry, and their coats need little attention. All you need to do is keep plaque away by brushing the coat weekly using a thin bristle brush. They also have a low drooling tendency meaning that you have little to worry about cleaning wet messes in your house.
  • When you need a dog that will live longer: The standard life expectancy of Boston Terriers is longer than that of Miniature Schnauzers. Miniature Schnauzers live for 9-11 years while Boston Terriers live for 11-13 years. 
Boston Terrier Dogs 101: Boston Terrier Facts and Information

Final Verdict

I prefer Boston Terriers over Miniature Schnauzers. They are more accommodative, require less grooming, and live longer. While they might have several differences, these three make Boston Terriers a better choice for most people.

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