German Pinscher

An elegant, strong, muscular dog, the German Pinscher has a short smooth coat that comes in red, fawn, black and tan, and blue and tan. Adults stand at 43-48cm and weigh approximately 11-16kg.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys active walks
Enjoys walking one to two hours a day

Medium dog
Some drool
Requires grooming once a week
Non hypoallergenic breed

Very vocal dog
Guard dog. Barks and alerts
May require training to live with other pets
May require training to live with kids

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Personality

An alert, bold breed with natural guarding tendencies, the German Pinscher needs an active home with experienced owners, who can socialize, train and handle him. This high-spirited dog would run rings around a first-time owner! In the right home, he makes a loyal, rewarding dog that can be trained in a number of disciplines.

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History and Origins

The German Pinscher dog breed is of the same origin as the Dobermann, which is larger, and the Miniature Pinscher, which is smaller. A farm dog, with his forefathers working as far back as the 15th century, the German Pinscher was used as a watch dog and ratter. Originally, there were two coat types – and the Standard Schnauzer is thought to have developed from the rough-coated Pinscher-type. The German Kennel Club recognised the German Pinscher in 1879.

Health and Common Issues

As with many breeds, the German Pinscher can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

Exercise Needs

Around an hour's exercise is needed per day, though he will happily accept more if you can offer it. Agility, obedience, tracking and other doggie sports will be enjoyed, too.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Grooming German Pinscher

The short, smooth coat is low-maintenance, requiring a quick brush through once a week.

Best Family Dog Breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Dog with red collar looking out the window

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