Description
The German Pinscher was originally developed as a working dog who hunted and killed vermin (that means he'll still nail them today, so he's not going to be good in a home with pet rodents). Today, he still has the energy of a working breed and has proved himself to be an all-around kind of guy when it comes to canine sports and careers. The German Pinscher, also called the Standard Pinscher, is a medium-sized, tall terrier with a strong, smooth, glossy coat that comes in red fawn, black & tan, and dark brown with yellow markings. Black with tan markings is the most common. The alert expressive ears have a natural fold when they are uncropped. Cropped ears are high set. Its long muzzle is bluntly tipped with a medium-sized, black nose. The body is robust and well muscled, like a Schnauzer's. Although well balanced with elegant lines, the breed isn't as sleek and taut as the Doberman. The dog's back is straight and the tail is customarily docked.
Temperament
The German Pinscher can be an ideal companion dog. This rare breed has a sense of humor, are brave, not squeamish, sober, and have considerable stamina. It is lively but docile, quite versatile, and a vocal guard dog. It responds to obedience training. However, they can be bull headed and stubborn and need to know who is boss. This breed only barks when it feels it is necessary, which may be often. Visitors will be announced with loud barking but then things usually calm down quickly. This breed needs to know that when the family is gone, it owns everything and when the family is home it owns nothing. The German Pincher is not a good breed for children for this reason, they may not differentiate between a real problem and some good old roughhousing. They will instinctively protect and will bite first and think later. Like other pinschers and terriers, they do not back away from disputes with other dogs, and need firm handling to control their fighting tendencies. German Pinchers are very loyal and protective. They will defend their territory, handler, and the family to the end against those intent upon harm. They can also get protective of their own things like their bones, a chair or their food. The owner needs to set the guidelines and let the dog know it can not growl at them or other humans. The dog must be taught that it is not "Top Dog". It needs to know its place in the house. Normally they get along well with other household pets. However, they are ratters and when outdoors they will chase a cat, possibly hurting it. This breed requires a firm hand from an experienced dog owner so they don't grow up to take over the whole house.
Height, Weight
Height: 16-19 inches (41-48 cm.)
Weight: 25-35 pounds (11-16 kg.)
Health Problems
Generally a healthy breed.
Living Conditions
The German Pinscher will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They should have a tight fenced in yard. This breed will run off chasing anything that moves quickly.
Exercise
The German Pinscher requires a lot of exercise. This breed needs to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk or jog. They will enjoy running alongside you when you bicycle, playing in the yard, or a walk around the block.
Life Expectancy
About 12-14 years.
Grooming
The strong, smooth, glossy coat requires little grooming. An occasional brushing to remove dead hair is all that is needed. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
This tall terrier evolved as a traditional farmer's vermin hunter. It guarded and drove livestock and was a watchdog. It is the forebear of the Miniature Pinscher and the Schnauzer, and it played a role in the development of the Doberman. The breed was officially recognized in Germany in 1879 and has been protected and promoted since 1894 by the German Pinscher Schnauzer Club. During the years around the turn of the century, both smooth pinscher and coarse-haired schnauzer pups appeared in the same litters. The club initiated a policy requiring proof of three generations of pure smooth coats for registration. This quickly helped set type and made them a distinct breed from the Schnauzer. The German Pinscher has been used as a vermin destroyer, herder, watchdog, guard dog and family pet.
Group
Terrier; the Kennel Club of Britain includes the German Pinscher the Working group.
