Here's what makes it confusing:
* Breeds: Some breeds have specific "toy" and "miniature" varieties. For example, the Yorkshire Terrier has both Toy and Miniature variations.
* Size: Some breeders and owners use "miniature" to describe a smaller dog within a breed, even if the breed itself is considered a toy breed.
* Terminology: "Toy" and "miniature" are often used as general terms to describe small dogs, regardless of their breed.
To really know, you'd need to consider:
* The Specific Breed: Check the breed standard for that particular dog.
* Weight and Height: Look for specific weight and height ranges for toy and miniature varieties.
* Context: Pay attention to how the terms are used in the specific situation.
So, while it might be tempting to assume a miniature dog is smaller than a toy dog, it's not always a clear-cut distinction!