Differences Between Mini & Tea Cup Schnauzers

To the general public, the difference between a "mini" and a "teacup" dog is the teacup is much smaller. But there is no such thing as a "teacup" or "toy" Schnauzer. The smallest American Kennel Club dog is a Chihuahua, and some breeders even try to miniaturize them.

  1. The Concept of "Teacup" Dogs

    • People are attracted to giant and tiny versions of things. But in animals, the desire to have an extreme miniature is a selling point that is detrimental to the animal.

    Health of "Teacups"

    • There is no such thing as a responsibly bred "teacup" dogs. These overly small puppies are often runts that have health and genetic problems.

    Miniature Schnauzers

    • The AKC Miniature Schnauzer is 12 to 14 inches at the shoulder. Smaller dogs are disqualified. The American Miniature Schnauzer Club states the "toy" Schnauzer is not a separate breed, it is an undersized Miniature Schnauzer. Breeders call these undersized dogs toys or teacups.

    Miniature Schnauzers: Not Created Equally

    • Even with Miniature Schnauzers, finding a responsible breeder is important. Issues such as hyperlipidemia and other breed-related problems can occur.

    Health or Size

    • There are many toy breeds if size is an issue for the owner. Choose a breed that is healthily bred for small size. If size is only desired but a breed is what is most important, select one within AKC standards.