Schnauzer Westie mixes are crossbreeds of Miniature Schnauzers and West Highland White Terriers. This mix is highly energetic and needs a lot of mental stimulation. They are small dogs and resemble either of their parent breeds. Generally healthy, Wauzers live between 12 and 15 years. They are hypoallergenic and don’t shed a lot.
Schnauzers and Westies are both fun breeds. They both have a strong prey drive and don’t like to be left alone.
But what about a mix of the two, the Wauzer? What traits does this crossbreed inherit from the parents?
This article explores all aspects of Schnauzer Westies mixes:
- Origin
- Appearance
- Temperament
- Life expectancy
- Health issues
- Food requirements
- Grooming needs
- Price
You will also learn the pros and cons of getting a Westie Schnauzer mix.
Schnauzer Westie Mix Overview
Schnauzer Westie mix dogs are also called Wauzers. They result from mixing Westies and Miniature Schnauzers. They are reliable, energetic, and healthy. This mix needs constant mental stimulation and has a strong prey drive. They are highly adaptable but don’t like to be left alone.
The safest way of mixing Westies and Schnauzers is using Miniature Schnauzers because of their similar size. This reduces the risks the mother faces at birth.
These tables illustrate the main characteristics of Schnauzer Westies mix dogs.
Appearance
Height
9 – 14 in (23 – 36 cm)
Weight
1 – 22 lbs (5 – 10 kg)
Lifespan
12 – 15 years
Dog Breed Group
Purpose
Mixed breed
Hunting
Coat Type
Double
Coat length
Medium
Coat color
White, salt pepper, silver, black
Eyes
Dark, not prominent
Nose
Black
Ears
Stiff-floppy
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Shedding
Grooming Difficulty
Adaptability
Apartment living
Good for beginners
Can be alone
Cold weather tolerance
Hot weather tolerance
Friendliness & Temper
Temperament
Affectionate
Kid-Friendly
Dog-Friendly
Friendly to Strangers
Playfulness
Trainability & Needs
Easy to train
Intelligence
Hunting Instinct
Barking
Energy Level
3 Reasons to Get a Westie Schnauzer Mix
Westie Schnauzer Mix dogs are intelligent and adaptable. One of their most valuable traits is their hypoallergenic nature.
1. Wauzers Are Smart
Wauzers have above-average intelligence. If they inherit their intelligence from Schnauzers, they are among the smartest dogs on the planet.
A study[1] conducted on 130 breeds analyzed the obedience and working intelligence of dogs. Westies came 47th, while Miniature Schnauzers came 12th.
Westies answer the first command correctly in 25 to 40 repetitions, while Schnauzers do so in 5 to 15 reps.
Westies obey the first command 50% of the time, while Miniature Schnauzers do so 85% of the time.
Regardless of what parent breed they resemble most, Wauzers are smarter than 60% of all other dog breeds.
2. Wauzers Are Hypoallergenic
Wauzers are minimal shedders and don’t drool much. Their dander production is low, which makes them less likely to trigger allergic reactions.
Contrary to popular belief, humans are not allergic to dogs’ hair. We can develop allergies to components[2] present in dogs’ dander, saliva, and bodily fluids[3].
As about 10% to 20% of the world population[4] are allergic to dogs, the fact that Wauzers are hypoallergenic is a great benefit. Especially as the number of people allergic to dogs is on the rise.
3. Wauzers Are Adaptable
Wauzers adapt well to changes in their lifestyle and respond well to changes in their routine.
This makes them perfect for people with busy schedules who can’t keep up with regular times for walking or feeding their dogs.
Westie Schnauzers mixes don’t become as anxious as other breeds when you change living spaces. They also react well if you change their sleeping spot or move furniture around the house.
This trait makes Wauzers perfect for people who like to travel a lot.
3 Reasons Not to Get a Westie Schnauzer Mix
Westie Schnauzer Mixes don’t like to be left alone and are not cat-friendly. They need space to spend their energy, making them unsuited for apartment living.
1. Wauzers Are Not Cat-friendly
Westie Schnauzer mixes are reactive to cats and small pets, which makes them unsuited for people who already have these animals.
They are friendlier towards animals they grow up with, but there is always a chance of the mix ending up chasing them around.
Both Westies and Miniature Schnauzers were initially bred for hunting small animals, such as rats. Their prey instinct is highly developed and they can’t help being triggered by cats.
If you already have a Wauzer, don’t buy a cat. Even if they can share a space, the cat will most likely be stressed out by constant harassment.
2. Wauzers Don’t Like to be Left Alone
Wauzers hate being left alone. Their ancestors were not bred as independent dogs. As a result, Wauzers are the happiest when they are with their family.
The worst thing that can happen is for your Wauzer to develop separation anxiety.[5]
Here are some behavior issues experienced by Wauzers with separation anxiety:
- Social panic
- Barking
- Noise sensitivity
- Improper elimination
- Immediate frustration
- Destructive behavior
Wauzer owners should work in a pet-friendly office or have any other job that allows them to take their dog to work. Otherwise, their Wauzer will be extremely unhappy.
3. Wauzers Are Not Apartment Friendly
Wawzer are energetic dogs. They need a lot of physical activity. If they don’t use their energy, they can develop behavior issues. They may bark or engage in destructive behavior, such as chewing on shoes or furniture.
Despite their size, Wauzers don’t like to live in apartments. They need constant stimulation, best offered by the outdoors.
If you decide to keep a Wauzer in your apartment, make sure to walk them for at least one hour a day. Play dates are essential to keep Wauzers happy.
You should also engage them in physical and mental games for mental stimulation.
Wauzer Origin
The origin of Wauzers is not documented but they are a relatively new designer breed. Both Westies and Miniature Schnauzers have more than 100 years of history.
Westie Origin
West Highland White Terriers were initially bred in Scotland. They originate from various breeding programs developed before the 20th century. The purpose of these programs was to create pure-white Terriers.
Westies’ purpose was to hunt rats and small rodents who lived underground.
The American Kennel Club recognized them in 1908. Despite their popularity in the United Kingdom, Westies occupy the 46th position among the most popular breeds in the United States.
Miniature Schnauzer Origin
Miniature Schnauzers come from Germany. They are a crossbreed of Standard Schnauzers and other smaller breeds. These breeds include Poodles, Affenpinschers, and Miniature Pinschers.
Mini Schnauzers were initially recorded in 1888. In 2021, they were the 18th most popular breed in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club.[6]
They were bred as ratting dogs. They were often used by rat-catchers who were popular in Europe. Their purpose was to keep the rat population under control to prevent disease.
Westie Schnauzer Appearance
Wauzers are small dogs that measure between 9 and 14 inches (23 and 36 centimeters) in height. They weigh between 11 and 22 pounds (5 and 10 kilograms) and have compact bodies. Wauzers are athletic and have well-defined muscles. Their small pointy ears are sometimes floppy from the middle up.
Westie Schnauzer Mix Color
Wauzers come in one color or combinations of the following colors:
- White
- Black
- Salt and pepper
- Black and silver
Westie Schnauzer Mix Coat Type
Wauzers are double-coated. Their outer layer is made of wiry hair that protects them from scratches, insect bites, and UV rays. The underlayer is made of short soft hair which has an insulating role.
Related: Westies Size
Westie Schnauzer Temperament
Westie Schnauzer mix dogs are active and fun to be around. They have the tendency to protect their territory and their loved ones. This mix has a strong prey drive and is unfriendly to cats or other small pets. They can detect when they are in danger and display stability in behavior.
Both Westies and Miniature Schnauzers do well on the temperament test developed by the American Temperament Test Society.
While 89.7% of Westies[7] passed this test in 2017, 79.3% of Schnauzers did so in the same year[8].
Still, both breeds have great results compared to Bearded Collies who passed with a percentage of 56.9%.[9]
Affection
Wauzers are affectionate but they value their privacy. They like to know their family members are always around even if they are not clingy.
Protective Instinct
This mix makes great watchdogs. They are extremely protective of their territory and loved ones.
Aggression
While they rarely bite and don’t have a high bite force (between 100 and 200 PSI), Wauzers have a predisposition for aggression. Males and older users are more aggressive. If properly socialized during puppyhood, this mix’s aggression can be reduced to a minimum.
Hunting Instinct
As their parents were bred for hunting, Wauzers inherit traits specific to small hunting dogs:
- Emotion display
- Reliable work ethic
- Eagerness to please
- Well-developed tracking and smelling ability
- Agileness
- Excellent running shape
- Great stamina
- Distractibility
- Well-developed barking instinct
Westie Schnauzer Life Expectancy
Schnauzer westies Mixes live between 12 and 15 years. The oldest Westie named Snowey died at 20. The oldest documented Miniature Schnauzer reached the age of 18 years old.
Here are ways to expand the life expectancy of Wauzers:
- Take them to the vet for yearly check-ups.
- Engage them in regular physical activity.
- Spay or neuter them.
- Slightly reduce their food intake.
- Provide nutritious food.
- Reduce their stress levels.
This table lists the life expectancy of Airedale Terriers compared to other popular breeds.
| Breed | Lifespan |
| Schnauzer Westie Mix | 12 – 15 years |
| Beagle | 12 – 15 years |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | 9 – 14 years |
| Boston Terrier | 11 – 13 years |
| Dachshund | 13 – 15 years |
| Jack Russel Terrier | 13 – 16 years |
Wauzer Dog Health Issues
Wauzers are generally healthy but have predispositions for various diseases specific to Westies and Miniature Schnauzers. They need periodic ophthalmologist evaluations and cardiac exams.
Wauzers have a predisposition for the following health issues:
- Cataracts
- Pancreatitis
- Liver shunts
- Hyperlipidemia
- Cardiac disease
- Teeth issues
- Atopic dermatitis
- Allergies
- Skin infections
- Kidney stones
Wauzer Food Requirements
Schnauzer Westies mix dogs need between 0.5 and 1.5 cups of kibble daily. It is best to split this into two meals. Wauzers are small active dogs that need their energy levels refilled constantly.
To avoid allergies, feed your Wauzer hypoallergenic dog food. It is best to avoid high amounts of the following ingredients:
- Artificial colors
- Artificial sweeteners
- Preservatives
- Diary
Make sure the food you provide Wauzers is high in nutrients to avoid nutrient deficiencies. A lack of certain nutrients can increase shedding levels.
Wauzer Grooming Needs
Wauzers are minimal shedders. Grooming does require consistency and patience though. They need daily coat and teeth brushing, and bathing every 4 and 6 weeks. If you are not experienced in hand stripping, it is best to take your Schnauzer Westie mix to a professional groomer every 3 to 4 months.
Wauzers have the following grooming needs:
- Daily coat brushing
- Daily teeth brushing
- Monthly nail trimming
- Bathing every 4 to 5 weeks or less
- Monthly ear cleaning
- Hand stripping every 3 to 4 months
Because of their predisposition to skin issues and allergic reactions, Wauzers need hypoallergenic products for their bathing sessions.
This table illustrates the ingredients you should avoid in grooming products for Wauzers.
| Ingredient | Effect | Names |
| Perfume | Has a neurotoxic potential, dehydrates the skin, and has an allergenic potential. | – |
| Sulfates | Can cause skin irritation, redness, itchiness, and dryness. | Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES), and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS) |
| Formaldehyde | Increase the risk of cancer.[10] | Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, Bronopol, Diazolidinyl urea, DMDN Hydantoin, and Imidazolidinyl urea |
| Parabens | Are linked to endocrine disruptions in dogs.[11] | Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Isopropylparaben, and Isobutylparaben |
Schnauzer Westie Mix Puppies’ Price
Wauzer puppies cost between $1000 and $1500. Reputable Wauzer dog breeders provide medical care and early socialization. You can adapt Wauzers from shelters or previous owners for between $50 and $600.
Here are the factors that influence the price of Wauzers:
- The professionalism of the breeder
- The medical care provided before the purchase (including vaccination)
- Spaying or neutering
- Early socialization
- Early training
- The breed’s popularity in the area
Conclusion
Schnauzer Westie mix dogs are small and adaptable. They are double coated and have wiry hair. This mix has a joyful personality and makes a great watchdog. Wauzers are smart and relatively easy to train. They can become stubborn and have a predisposition for aggression, which requires early training and socialization.
Wauzers have a long lifespan, between 12 and 15 years. They are healthy dogs that have a predisposition for separation anxiety. This mix is perfect for active families that don’t live in apartments. They are highly energetic and need a large space to move around.
