Bold Highland terrier meets clever, bearded Schnauzer — the Westie-Schnauzer mix (sometimes a “Wauzer”) is a small, spirited, scruffy companion. Here's the honest profile.
The short answer
- A cross of the West Highland White Terrier and the Miniature Schnauzer — small, smart and lively.
- Expect a wiry, low-to-moderate-shedding coat that needs regular grooming.
- Bright and trainable, with a double dose of terrier — alert, vocal, busy.
- Can inherit skin allergies (Westie) and pancreatitis / eye issues (Schnauzer).
Parent breeds at a glance
Westie traits (1–5)
Energy4
Boldness5
Grooming4
Barkiness4
Mini Schnauzer traits (1–5)
Energy4
Boldness3
Grooming4
Barkiness4
| Trait |
Typical for the mix |
| Weight |
12–20 lb (5–9 kg) |
| Height |
10–14 in |
| Coat |
Wiry/scruffy; white, grey, salt-and-pepper or black |
| Shedding |
Low to moderate |
| Temperament |
Smart, alert, affectionate, busy |
Care & grooming
Both parents have high-maintenance coats, so brush several times a week and clip or hand-strip every 6–8 weeks. Keep the beard clean, and stay on top of ears, nails and teeth.
Health
| From the Westie side |
From the Schnauzer side |
| Atopic skin allergies |
Pancreatitis (watch fatty foods) |
| Luxating patella |
Eye conditions (cataracts) |
| Skin sensitivity |
Bladder stones |
Two terriers, two sets of possible bills
Mixes can draw issues from either parent, so cover taken out while young is the smart play.
See our Westie insurance & cost guide →
We only point to cover we'd consider ourselves. Independent owners, not insurers.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Westie-Schnauzer mix called?
There's no official name — owners use Wauzer, Schnauzie or simply Westie-Schnauzer mix. It's a designer cross, not a recognised breed.
How big does a Westie-Schnauzer mix get?
Usually 12–20 lb and 10–14 inches — a small, sturdy dog.
Do Westie-Schnauzer mixes shed?
Low to moderate, thanks to both parents' wiry coats — but they still need regular grooming.
Are they good family dogs?
Generally yes — affectionate and playful, with a busy, alert terrier streak. Supervise young children.
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About this guide. From the Westie owners at westiebakse.com.
