Here's a comparison:
Border Terrier:
* Origin: Border Country of England and Scotland
* Size: Small, 12-16 inches tall, 13-16 pounds
* Coat: Wirehaired, dense, and weather-resistant
* Temperament: Energetic, bold, independent, and loyal
* Purpose: Originally bred for hunting vermin
Schnauzers:
* Origin: Germany
* Size: Varies by variety:
* Miniature: 11-14 inches tall, 11-20 pounds
* Standard: 17-20 inches tall, 35-45 pounds
* Giant: 23-28 inches tall, 65-85 pounds
* Coat: Double-coated, harsh outer coat and soft undercoat
* Temperament: Intelligent, playful, alert, and protective
* Purpose: Originally bred for ratting and guarding
Key Differences:
* Size: Border Terriers are generally smaller than all varieties of Schnauzers.
* Coat: Border Terriers have a wiry, weather-resistant coat, while Schnauzers have a double-coated, harsh coat.
* Temperament: Border Terriers tend to be more independent and stubborn, while Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and trainability.
* Purpose: Border Terriers were bred for vermin control, while Schnauzers were bred for a variety of tasks, including guarding and ratting.
While both breeds are excellent companions, they have distinct differences in their appearance, temperament, and history.