Difference Between Schnauzer Vs. Miniature Schnauzer
Schnauzer
Schnauzers are three breeds of wiry-coated German dogs—the giant schnauzer, standard schnauzer, and miniature schnauzer. In the United States the giant and standard schnauzers are classified as working dogs, the miniature as a terrier. The three breeds are similar in appearance, having a whiskered face and distinctive eyebrows. In the United States, the ears are generally cut and the tail is removed. Standard schnauzer is the oldest of the three breeds, possibly originating from poodle, spitz, and wirehaired pinscher stock. It stands from 44.5 to 49.5 cm (17.5 to 19.5 in) high at the shoulders. The miniature schnauzer, believed derived from small standard schnauzers by crosses with affenpinschers, stands between 30.5 and 35.5 cm (12 and 14 in) high at the shoulders. The giant schnauzer, originally used as a cattle drover, was developed from the standard schnauzer by crosses probably with various roughhaired sheepdogs, the Great Dane, and possibly the Bouvier des Flandres. It stands between about 60 and 70 cm (23.5 and 27.5 in) high at the shoulders.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer, the smallest member of the schnauzer family, whose larger members are the standard and giant schnauzers. The ideal height of the miniature schnauzer is 12 to 14 inches (30–35 cm). The adult weighs 12 to 15 pounds (5.4–6.8 kg). It is hardy, active, intelligent, and a good ratter. It has a gay disposition, is adaptable, and is valued primarily as a house pet.
The Miniature Schnauzer has a strong rectangular head; a strong muzzle with thick whiskers; small, deep-set eyes; pointed ears; a short, deep body; straight forelegs and angular hind-quarters; and a tail set high and carried erect. It has two coats—a hard, wiry outer coat, and a close undercoat. Its colors are pure black, black and silver, or pepper and salt.
The miniature schnauzer, derived from the standard schnauzer, was developed in Germany about 1900 and fixed as a type by the 1920s. It was first imported to the United States and England in the 1920s. The American Miniature Schnauzer Club was founded in 1933.