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The German Pinscher said to be Germany's "Best Kept Secret". The German
Pinscher can be an ideal companion dog. This rare breed has a sense
of humor, is brave, not squeamish, sober, and have considerable
stamina. It is lively but docile, quite versatile, and a vocal guard
dog. Energetic, watchful, alert, agile, fearless, determined,
intelligent and loyal, the German Pinscher has the prerequisites to
be an excellent watchdog and companion. As the name indicated, the
German Pinscher originates from Germany, and has been recognized
there since the late 1880s. The German Pinscher was originally bred
by the farming families of Germany to work as a larger, heavier
ratter and protector for the farms. The dog's intelligence, natural
athletic ability and their compact size made them ideally suited to
hunt in barns and around the farms. They were also historically used
as herding dogs and guardians for livestock.
General Appearance
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 coat is very sleek
and short and is uniform over the entire body. Each hair is very
flat against the body and may be soft to harsh to the touch. The
coat should have a natural gleam and sheen and there should be no
bald patches on the coat. 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. These are medium sized dogs with a sturdy and athletic
build, power, and agility. The gait of the German Pinscher is one of
grace and power, with a smooth and fluid movement. The feet do not
cross over each other in the gait and remain parallel when standing
or in motion. The toes are compact and short, arching somewhat in
the center like the feet of a cat.
Temperament
The German Pinscher is a dog that is spirited, courageous, bold,
loyal, and playful. These dogs have a good natured disposition, and
are alert and watchful, as well as determined and protective, which
makes them very good watchdogs. Some German Pinschers can be very
strong willed and even manipulative, and this makes the breed better
suited to those with some experience of dog ownership. These dogs
have plenty of energy, and will love taking part in a variety of
activities, as well as enjoying play and exercise with his family.
The high intelligence and quick learning abilities of the German
Pinscher can aid training, but this can be offset by his willful and
strong minded streak, so owners have to ensure that they are
confident and assertive. The German Pinscher does love attention
from his owners, so this is a not a dog for those that have little
time to commit to a pet. German Pinschers have a tendency to bark a
lot, and can also be very possessive of belongings. These dogs will
get along okay with children that are older and considerate, but
early socialization is important. When raised with other dogs, the
German Pinscher should be okay, although he can be very dominant,
but beware around smaller animals that tend to run, as he does have
a high prey drive. This is a very protective breed, and in most
cases the German Pinscher will be very wary around strangers, and is
a very territorial animal.
Grooming
The strong, smooth, glossy coat of the German Pinscher requires little grooming. An
occasional brushing to remove dead hair is all that is needed. This
breed is an average shedder.
Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The German Pinscher is a healthy and robust breed and has fewer
health problems than many other breeds. Some of the health issues
relating to the German Pinscher are HD and eye problems. The life
expectancy of the German Pinscher is around 12-14 years.
Activity Level
The German Pinscher requires a lot of exercise. They will enjoy
running alongside you when you bicycle, playing in the yard, or a
walk around the block. Walks per day should also be sufficient. This
eager little breed is sure to keep your on your toes.
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