German Pinscher

German Pinscher
History:

Country/Date of Origin: Germany/1800s

The smooth haired Pinscher has been mentioned in the German stud book since 1880. He has the same ancestors as the Schnauzer, which was also called the rough coated Pinscher. The two dogs differed in their color and coat type. In Germany, the Pinscher is a watch and companion dog. Very active and alert, the German Pinscher has clean, muscular lines that give it the look of barely restrained power. The standard size has never achieved the international popularity of the other two Pinschers.

FCI Group: 2 (Working)

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Deutscher Pinscher

AKC Group: Miscellaneous

Breed Club: The German Pinscher Club of America

Rescue Club: The German Pinscher Club Member's Rescue Program

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Body Type:

  • In relation of length to height, the Pinscher's build should be as square as possible, medium in size
  • Height: 17.7 - 19.7 inches (at shoulder)
  • Weight: 25-35 pounds
  • Ears: Drop ears, set high, V-shaped. Ears are not docked
  • Tail is natural

Personality:

  • Loyal and devoted to family
  • A good watchdog as it is suspicious of strangers and will bark an alarm. Even so, not a barker
  • Intelligent and easily trained. Are talented in obedience, agility and SAR.
  • Sensitive nature: will not take harsh criticism. Need systematic and consistent training at a young age
  • Tend to be hyperactive as puppies if not given enough to occupy mind and body
  • Calm down greatly as adults

Coat:

  • Short, fine and glossy. Dense and smooth, close and shiny
  • Allowed colors are black and tan, deer red, reddish-brown to dark red or brown
  • Minimal grooming

Health Concerns:

  • Generally healthy breed
  • Subject to skin allergies
  • Tend to be sensitive to vaccination if given too many at a time
  • Lifespan up to 12 years
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • Often mistaken for a young Doberman Pinscher. In spite of their similar heritage and resemblance in looks, their personalities are quite different
  • A good house pet. Pinschers bond strongly with their owners and love to share the sofa. Love to play games and socialize well with other dogs and people
  • Clean as a cat. Has almost no body odor
  • Can be noisy, but not usually. German Pinschers are not barkers unless they are disturbed by a sound or bell