Read About German Pinscher

A rare breed, the German Pinscher can make an ideal companion. With a sense of humor and its obedient nature, this can be a good pet for the right person. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick German Pinscher Summary:

1. Size:

   The German Pinscher is a medium sized breed.

2. Weight:

   This dog can vary from 21 - 50 lbs.

3. Coat:

   This breed is a short coated dog.

4. Shedding:

   This dog does have a medium level of shedding.

5. Temperament:

   The German Pinscher is a moderately aggressive breed.

6. Obedience:

   These dogs have good obedience tendencies.

7. Ease of Training:

   Because of their good obedience, this breed is easy to train.

8. Way with Children:

   The German Pinschers are not recommended for children.

German Pinscher - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   This breed is part of the working group and was admitted to AKC in 2001.

2. Size & Weight:

   This breed averages from 16 - 19 inches tall and 25 - 35 lbs.

3. Coat:

   The German Pinscher has a short coat that is naturally very shiny.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   With a powerful, elongated head and a blunt muzzle, this breed wears the expression of alertness.

5. Body:

   This breed has a compact and strong body.

6. Colors:

   Reds, blacks and blues are all acceptable colors in this breed.

7. Life Expectancy:

   The life expectancy of a German Pinscher is 12 -- 14 years.

8. Popularity:

   This breed is not a popular one; not because of any characteristic, but more so because not long ago, it was facing extinction.

9. Habitat:

   The German Pinscher can live happily in an apartment as long as it is exercised regularly.

German Pinscher - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Germany

2. Historical Information:

   An individual by the name of Werner Jung is credited with saving this breed of dogs in 1958; he used a female German Pinscher that had gotten past East Germany's iron curtain.

German Pinscher - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   This breed has endurance, intelligence and an aptitude for training.

2. Behavior:

   The German Pinscher is highly territorial and protective of its surroundings and its family; if it senses trouble, it will bite first and think later.

3. Habits:

   This breed has a tendency to chase anything that moves so make sure it is on leash or in a tightly fenced area.

German Pinscher - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   The German Pinscher is an incredibly healthy breed and there are no known breed related issues at this time.

2. Exercise Needs:

   This pup requires a lot of exercise; they do well running along a bicycle or jogging.

3. Grooming Needs:

   This is a relatively low maintenance breed as their coat is so short; only occasional brushing to remove dead hair is needed.

4. Travel Needs:

   With a dog of this high-spirited nature, it is a good idea to have it secured in a dog seat whenever traveling by car.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   This is not a good breed for children; it can easily mistake roughhousing as a problem and bite. It also enjoys chasing other animals and will most likely not do well with a cat.

German Pinscher - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Healthy and bright eyes, energetic and a good, clean coat.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Puppy crate, training collar and lease, housebreaking materials.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   As always, it is a good idea to go through your home and pick up any loose objects that could be eaten by your puppy. "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" is a good rule of thumb to follow when bringing home your new companion.