How Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Dog Schnitzel Became an Internet Sensation – And Why She’s So Special

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s life has long been in the spotlight, not just for his Hollywood career and political endeavors, but also for his passion for animals. Among his beloved pets is Schnitzel, a Leonberger dog who has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Here’s a closer look at the lovable companion, from her breed and age to her unique role in Arnold’s diverse pet household.

Schnitzel’s Breed: The Gentle Giant

Schnitzel is a Leonberger, a breed known for its impressive size and gentle nature. Often referred to as a “gentle giant,” Leonbergers are large, friendly dogs that thrive in family settings due to their compatibility with children and other pets. This aligns with Schnitzel’s interactions with Arnold’s other animals, which include a mix of dogs, a donkey, and even a miniature horse. The breed’s calm demeanor and loyalty make them ideal for multi-pet households, and Schnitzel has certainly found her place among Arnold’s menagerie.

While some sources, such as DogTime, do not explicitly confirm Schnitzel’s breed, other pet-focused platforms, including PetsRadar and LordOfThePets, have consistently identified her as a Leonberger, reinforcing the conclusion that this is her breed.

Estimating Schnitzel’s Age

Schnitzel was introduced to the world by Arnold Schwarzenegger in February 2022, when he shared that he got her for Christmas in 2021. At the time, Schnitzel was described as a “puppy.” Based on this information, it’s reasonable to estimate that she was around 2 to 4 months old when she was adopted in December 2021. If she was approximately 3 months old in December, that would place her birth around September 2021.

As of April 2025, Schnitzel is estimated to be about 3 years and 6 months old, though this could vary slightly based on her exact birth date. However, given the estimated timeline, she is in the early stages of adulthood and still quite young for a Leonberger, whose typical lifespan is between 8 to 10 years.

Schnitzel’s Role in Arnold’s Pet Household

Schnitzel is part of a diverse and growing household of animals, which includes a variety of pets such as other dogs, a donkey, and a miniature horse. Arnold’s home is known for its animal-loving atmosphere, and Schnitzel is often seen interacting with his other pets. She has developed a particularly strong bond with Dutch, Arnold’s Alaskan Malamute, and the two are best friends.

However, not all pet interactions have been smooth. Schnitzel initially had some challenges with Cherry, a Yorkshire Terrier, and Lulu, the miniature donkey. Reports note that Cherry was initially wary of Schnitzel and even showed her teeth, while Lulu tried to trample her at first. Despite these early difficulties, Schnitzel has managed to integrate well into the family, with Arnold often sharing amusing anecdotes about the dynamics between his pets.

A Personal Connection: Schnitzel’s Name

Schnitzel’s name is a nod to Arnold’s cultural background. Named after his favorite Austrian dish, schnitzel, the dog’s name is both personal and endearing. The name reflects Arnold’s connection to his Austrian roots and adds a touch of humor and warmth to the dog’s role within his family.

Public Interest and Cultural Impact

Since Schnitzel’s introduction, she has garnered significant attention from Arnold’s fans and the public at large. Arnold’s post about her on X (formerly Twitter) in February 2022 received widespread engagement, with 192K votes and 3K comments on Reddit’s r/aww forum. Fans flocked to praise Schnitzel’s cuteness, and Arnold’s interactions with followers underscored his affection for her. This engagement has only strengthened her status as a beloved pet in Arnold’s household.

Schnitzel has become more than just another pet—she is a symbol of Arnold’s love for animals. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Arnold spoke about how his pets, including Schnitzel, helped him cope with isolation and provided comfort during difficult times, as noted in Hola.

Schnitzel Among Arnold’s Other Pets

In addition to Schnitzel, Arnold’s household is home to several other animals that bring joy and companionship. These include:

• Dutch (Alaskan Malamute), who is Schnitzel’s best friend.

• Noodle (possibly a Yorkshire Terrier), whose breed has caused some confusion across sources.

• Cherry (Yorkshire Terrier), who has had a complex relationship with Schnitzel.

• Lulu (Miniature Donkey), who initially tried to trample Schnitzel but has since become part of the family.

• Whisky (Miniature Horse), who remains unfazed by the addition of new pets.

• Schnelly (Pig), added in April 2023, though not a dog, and part of Arnold’s extended pet family.

Conclusion

Schnitzel, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Leonberger, is more than just a pet—she is part of a larger family of animals that bring joy and warmth to the actor’s life. From her playful relationship with Dutch to her integration into a multi-pet household, Schnitzel has become a beloved member of the Schwarzenegger clan. Whether it’s her name inspired by Arnold’s favorite dish or the heartwarming stories shared by the actor, Schnitzel’s place in Arnold’s life continues to be cherished. As she grows, her popularity among fans only continues to rise, cementing her as one of the most adored pets in Hollywood.