The Weimaraner was originally bred in Germany as gun dogs to hunt deers and even bears. They are still used today by hunters. They can also make great family pets.
They are intelligent, athletic and striking-looking dogs. This could be the perfect breed for you if you are looking for an active addition to your family or household.
Working dogs need a lot of exercise and this guy is no different. They need plenty of exercise and playtime. They could make the perfect jogging partner, just not a breed for couch potatoes. You will need to be able to commit to long walks and endless games to keep them happy. This is not a suitable apartment dog. Remember, a bored dog will usually become mischievous, whether it be nuisance barking, chewing or digging. Try to ensure they are occupied with jobs, playtime or plenty of exercise to keep them out of trouble.
They love their families and being with people. They are unsuitable for families with young children as they have their limits to being pulled around. They are very playful, so older children and those used to being around dogs will play endless games running around the garden with them.
They make great watchdogs; you will always know who is at the door and anything suspicious outside. They are big dogs with a loud booming bark. You shouldn’t have to worry about intruders with this guy around. They are un-trusting of strangers, and as with most dogs, they will need good socialisation to combat this.
They should be fine with other dogs and cats if brought up with them. They are hunters, so the instinctive need to chase neighbour’s cats and small animals is probably too strong to control. Ensure your outside area is well enclosed and they can’t escape when giving chase.
They are intelligent dogs but can be very headstrong. You will need to discover their motivation reward early on to get the best out of them. You will need to use consistency and assert yourself as the top dog early on to get them to listen to you. Then you will have a lovely well-trained companion for life. They have the energy to burn and intelligence to match. This is not a dog for a first-time owner, you will need to make sure their needs are met, or you face a lot of destructive activities.
Their hair is low maintenance it’s short, but they shed fairly heavily all year round, and they tend to shed worse during autumn and spring. Weekly brushing will be enough to keep it under control.
Weimaraner Stats
There have been numerous theories cited over the origins of the Weimaraner. One fact remains certain: the Weimaraner had much Leithund blood in it. These dogs were kept during the first third of the 19th century at the Court of Weimar. Towards the middle of the century, the dogs were found almost exclusively in the hands of professional hunters and forest officials in central Germany, especially in the regions of Weimar and Thuringia.
- Weight -25kg –40kg
- Size – 57cm – 70cm
- They live for 12-14 years