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Weimaraner

Origin: Germany

AKC Group: Sporting

Height: 23 inches (Male)

Weight: 50 pounds (Male)

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Origin:

Germany

Male height:

23 inches

Male weight:

50 pounds

Coat:

Short, fine and hard.

Colors:

All shades of solid gray.

History:

This elegant breed was developed in Germany and was a favorite at the court of Weimar, in east-central Germany. The dog of Weimar was originally called the Weimar Pointer and is believed to be descended from brackes and schweisshunds. He was used to track and hunt large game such as bears, wolves and big cats. As large game populations decreased, wing shooting became most popular, and the then-large and hound-like Weimaraner was crossed with bird dogs to bring in bird hunting abilities. Soon hunters working with the breed developed the dog we admire today - an all-around gundog capable of locating and bringing in game, including tracking injured birds that sometimes fall far from the mark.

German Weimaraner fanciers kept the breed to themselves for many years, maintaining low numbers but preserving the high quality of breeding. The American Howard Knight imported a pair in the 1920s and founded the Weimaraner Club of America (WCA) in 1929. It wasn't until the 1940s that the breed became more popular, gaining recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1943.

Personality:

The Weimaraner is a talented, high-energy dog. "Friendly," "fearless," "alert" and "obedient" are words usually used to describe this breed, and he is all these things and more. He was bred to handle tough situations, and he doesn't back down easily. He learns quickly and bores quickly. Effusively affectionate with his family and those he knows, the Weimaraner can be aloof and territorial with strangers.

At home:

Strong and athletic, the Weimaraner needs lots of outdoor exercise, which may not make him the best breed for an apartment. Although he is athletic, he is not an "outdoor dog," as he craves regular attention from his people and needs to be with them. He has a strong bark and makes a good watchdog.

Recommended activities:

The Weimaraner's talents are many, and he has proven himself in all areas: hunting, showing, field trialing, tracking, agility and obedience.

Exercise:

The Weimaraner thrives on exercise, and if he doesn't get enough of it, he will resort to destructive behaviors as he becomes bored and restless. He makes a great jogging or bicycling companion as an adult. A Weimaraner will most love the opportunity to hunt and extend himself in open spaces, and if this can be offered to him, he will benefit immensely. Otherwise, several long, vigorous walks are necessary on a daily basis.

Feeding:

Feed the Weimaraner the highest-quality food possible, and be sure that it's appropriate for his age. Don't let your Weimaraner get fat.

Training:

To look at the Weimaraner's accomplishments, it is clear that with training, he can master almost anything. That said, this is a breed that needs a persistent and patient trainer who understands that he learns quickly and bores easily. Heavy-handed training will only make the Weim wary and reticent. Given the encouragement and motivation to accomplish something, this dog will respond-and then some. Socialization from puppyhood is important in helping him develop trust and confidence.

Compatibility:

The Weimaraner enjoys the company of children, but little ones are often jostled by the quick movements of his muscular body. He retains a strong prey drive and so may not be compatible with smaller pets.

Health:

The average life span of the Weimaraner is 10 to 12 years. Common health problems include bloat; hip dysplasia; and hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD), or too-rapid growth.

Fun fact:

Weimaraners also come in a long-haired variety, which is well known and accepted in Europe. However, the longhaired Weim is not accepted for registration by the AKC.

Grooming blurb:

The shorthaired Weimaraner is kept clean with an occasional brushing or rubdown with a hound glove. The glove will loosen dead hair and stimulate the skin. Check under his pendulous ears for any signs of infection.

Disclaimer:

This document has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this document, the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader's discretion.