The Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest of the three breeds, like the Standards and Giants they originated in Germany. Mini's were bred to go to ground to rid the farm and home of all types of vermin. Mini's are wonderful breed, they are a small dog, but not to small, don't tell them that because they think they are Giants. Don't be fooled by their size, they are a very sturdy little dog when breed properly and would protect you with their all. Mini's seem to be the most popular of the three breeds, with that comes a lot of problems. People have been practicing their own back yard breedings, creating wild colors and breeding them to smaller breeds of dogs to create teacups and toys and calling them mini's. AKC does not recognize toy or teacup Miniature Schnauzers. Please do not contribute to these practices, as tempting as those cute faces may be. Find a reputable breeder that breeds true to the breed standard and does all of the health screenings. Buying pups from reputable breeders helps to preserve the breed and it saves you a ton of vet bills and heartache.