Weimaraner

Breed Description

The Weimaraner, also known as the Weims or Weimar Shepherd, is a large hunting dog from the sporting dog group that originated in Weimar, Germany. Traditionally, they were bred for hunting large animals such as wild boars, bears, and deer. They earned the nickname “gray ghost” due to their characteristic gray coat.

The Weimaraner is a modern hunting dog with a wide range of professional applications. It is a relatively young breed. With the emancipation of the bourgeoisie over 150 years ago, the hunting landscape changed. The noble chase with large hounds gave way to a solitary hunter with a modern rifle, confidently shooting at long distances. As a result, the primary assistants in hunting, dogs, also had to adapt to new roles. Hunting game in pairs, searching for pheasants or ducks shot from far away, tracking deer-in short, all tasks before and after the shot ideally should be done by a single dog.

Versatile specialists, known as hunting service dogs, have been in demand ever since. To develop new hunting assistants, preference was given to ancient breeds of pointers and guide dogs, which continued to evolve. Thus, after 1870, new hunting dog breeds emerged, such as the Kleine Münsterländer, German Wirehaired Pointer, and Weimaraner. Initially, the Weimaraner was very rare and was only known in the vicinity of Weimar in Thuringia.

Stories about the early origins of the Weimaraner are repeated many times, but there is little evidence to support them. Zoologist Professor Leopold Fitzinger, in his treatise “Breeds of Gun Dogs,” published in 1867 under the auspices of the Imperial Academy of Sciences, lists no fewer than 35 breeds of German hunting dogs but makes no mention of the Weimaraner.

Ludwig Beckmann describes the breeds and varieties of guide dogs in 1893, focusing specifically on short-haired guide dogs from Thuringia. However, he also does not mention the gray color or the name “Weimaraner.” At that time, only the working ability of dogs was important, and external features such as coat color received little attention. In 1897, the current Weimaraner club was founded. Since then, it has been responsible for the breed’s development worldwide, making it one of the most efficient and elegant breeds.

The price for a puppy is 35,000 to 65,000 rubles.

Appearance

The Weimaraner is a medium to large hunting dog. It is considered one of the most noble representatives of the canine world. While the Great Dane is often affectionately referred to as the favorite of the dog world, the Weimaraner is regarded as one of the most elegant dogs globally. This emphasis on the distinction between the two breeds is not coincidental. It has been documented early on that Great Danes were among the ancestors of the Weimaraner.

It is possible that a genetic mutation, causing the gray coat color, was introduced to this remarkable breed by Great Danes. This may also pertain to the Weimaraner’s appearance and head structure. Thus, while the coat color is indeed the most distinguishing feature at first glance, the dog’s inner qualities are far more remarkable. Interestingly, Weimaraners are not only available in a short-haired variety; the long-haired version is also officially recognized, although it is very rare.

Males typically measure between 59 to 70 cm in height, while females range from 57 to 65 cm. Males usually weigh between 33 to 40 kg, while females weigh between 25 to 35 kg. They have short, smooth fur, velvety ears, and amber or gray-blue eyes. With a strong prey drive, they are avid hunters of anything resembling prey, including small animals like mice and rabbits, and may even chase joggers or cyclists on the streets.

Thanks to their friendliness, obedience, and remarkable beauty, Weimaraners are loved by both hunters and pet owners. They enjoy engaging in sports and playing, as well as spending time with their humans. Overall, the Weimaraner embodies sleek grace and balance. A well-trained Weimaraner is a captivating sight.

The gray dog is of medium size, with fine, aristocratic facial features. It should represent the embodiment of grace, speed, endurance, vigilance, and balance.

Above all, the dog’s physique should indicate the capability to work with great speed and endurance in the field.The Weimaraner’s coat is short, smooth, sleek, and solid-colored, ranging from mouse-gray to silver-gray, usually with lighter shades on the head and ears. The nose is dark gray.They are affectionately nicknamed “the gray ghost” due to their silvery-gray coat with a slight amber tint.The overall appearance of the Weimaraner presents a medium-sized dog that is gray with light eyes, embodying strength, endurance, and balance.

Отличительные черты

Голова

Moderately long, aristocratic; a gentle transition from the forehead to the muzzle, a small median line that extends back over the forehead. A fairly prominent occipital bone. The measurement from the tip of the nose to the stop is equal to the measurement from the stop to the occipital protuberance.

Морда

The muzzle is straight with thin nostrils. The skin is tightly stretched. The brow ridges are moderately deep, framing a strong jaw. The nose is gray. The neck is well-defined and of medium length.

Уши

Long, wedge-shaped, slightly curved, and set high. When drawing along the jawline, it should end approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) from the tip of the nose.

Глаза

Medium-sized, round in appearance. Shades of amber or blue-gray. Placed far enough apart to indicate a good character, not overly prominent and not set deeply. The expression is sharp, kind, and intelligent.

Зубы

The length of the body from the shoulder to the hip should be greater than the height at the withers, approximately in the ratio of 12:10. The top line is straight, with a slightly sloping croup. The chest is well-developed and deep. The ribs are well-formed, and the chest expands well towards the short, strong loin. The belly is tightly held, and the flanks are moderately tucked. The sternum should reach the elbow. The movement is light, low to the ground, indicating smooth coordination.

Корпус

Длина туловища от плеча до ягодицы должна быть больше высоты в холке, приблизительно в пропорции 12:10. Линия верха ровная, со слегка покатым крупом. Грудная клетка хорошо развита и глубокая. Ребра хорошо развиты, грудная клетка хорошо расширяется назад к короткой, крепкой пояснице. Живот плотно прижат, бока умеренно подтянуты. Грудинка должна доходить до локтя. Движение легкое, приземистое покрытие, указывающее на плавную координацию.

Конечности

Передние конечности прямые и сильные. Расстояние от локтя до земли равно расстоянию от локтя до верха холки. Задние конечности умеренно угловатые, с хорошо вывернутыми коленными суставами. Скакательные суставы хорошо опущены, не вывернуты ни внутрь, ни наружу. Мускулатура хорошо развита. При осмотре сзади задние лапы параллельны передним. При взгляде сбоку линия верха остается сильной и ровной. Ноги твердые, компактные. Пальцы хорошо изогнуты, подушечки сомкнуты, толстые. Ногти короткие, серого или янтарного цвета.

Хвост

Ранее обычно состыкованный. Купированный: Обычно купируется так, чтобы оставшийся хвост закрывал мошонку у собак и вульву у сук. Толщина хвоста пропорциональна толщине тела. Следует вести себя так, чтобы это выражало уверенность и здоровый темперамент. У длинношерстных собак кончик хвоста может быть удален. Без косточек: Умеренно посаженный, толщина пропорциональна корпусу. Доходящий до скакательных суставов и сужающийся к кончику. Держится ниже уровня спины в расслабленном состоянии; может приподниматься при движении. Не перекатывается через спину. Хороший волосяной покров.

Шерсть

Short, smooth, and well-groomed. In long-haired varieties, the fur on the body ranges from 2.5 to 5 cm (1-2 inches) in length, slightly longer on the neck, chest, and belly. The tail and the back of the limbs are feathery.

Окрас

Единственный правильный цвет - серый. Предпочтительнее серебристо-серый. Допустимы оттенки мышиного или серо-коричневого; переходящие в более светлый оттенок на голове и ушах. Вдоль спины часто встречается темная полоса угря. Весь слой создает видимость металлического блеска. Допускается небольшая белая отметина на груди. Белые пятна, образовавшиеся в результате травм, не наказываются. Любой другой цвет, включая синий, крайне нежелателен.

Character

The Weimaraner is a hunting dog that seeks, points, and retrieves pheasants or hares. However, it also excels as a watchdog. Weims are considered to be extremely intelligent and at the same time predatory, which does not always allow them to navigate easily. Firstly, they are devoted hunting dogs. On the other hand, they are also clever and very loyal to their owner or family, being affectionate, almost clingy companions. They are excellent observers, capable of empathizing so deeply with their people that it seems they understand their thoughts. The Weimaraner has a pronounced protective instinct. They are smart, strong, and specialized in hunting, making them true hunting dogs. A Weim that is not properly utilized is not a good family dog. However, if you have the means, interest, and knowledge to work properly with a Weimaraner, they can also become a wonderful family dog and an exceptional partner in all respects.

Weimaraners are a people-oriented breed. They love family life. Due to their friendly and affectionate nature, they get along well with children. But since they are full of energy, they are better suited for families with older children who are familiar with dogs, as Weims can be too boisterous for younger kids. They are also ideal for dog sports enthusiasts or owners with active lifestyles who can match the energetic character of the Weim.

This breed is not recommended for inexperienced pet owners or first-time dog owners because they tend to assert their dominance. Weims are also very alert, making them excellent watchdogs. Due to their hunting background, they can be fearless and vigilant. Weims may be reserved and aloof with those they do not know.

A Weim that has not been socialized at a young age may approach strangers with suspicion and develop unacceptable aggressive behavior. Early socialization and training are essential to help develop a well-balanced and well-mannered Weim.

To ensure your Weimaraner gets along with your other pets, early socialization is necessary. With proper training, they can coexist with other animals living in the house.

Other dogs may perceive a Weim as an “outsider,” sometimes displaying reactions towards other males. Likewise, female Weims may not like other dogs either. Generally, Weims do not tolerate small furry animals well, such as opossums, rabbits, and guinea pigs.Being energetic hunting dogs, they have a strong instinctual drive for prey, which can lead them to chase, and sometimes kill, any small animals that catch their eye. Families with small pets are not recommended to get a Weimaraner. Early socialization can help mitigate aggression towards other pets.

Care and Maintenance

Due to their short fur, Weimaraners are one of the least demanding breeds in terms of care routines. However, long-haired Weimaraners require a slightly more intensive grooming regimen.

Weimaraners shed moderately, usually about twice a year, despite their short hair. They are not hypoallergenic dogs, so they are not recommended for allergy sufferers. It is advisable to regularly brush their coats to prevent clumps of fur from accumulating in your home.

However, since their hair is very short, shedding is not very noticeable; although Weimaraners do shed, their coat color usually darkens. The color typically fades and returns to normal in about a month.

For Weimaraners, as hunting dogs, it is important to maintain optimal paw condition. It’s best to keep their nails well-trimmed. You should also bathe them with mild soap as needed. Wiping them down with a chamois will help keep their coats shiny. Their droopy ears should also be checked regularly for infections. For oral hygiene, brushing their teeth with a rubber glove once a week is sufficient.

The standard diet for a Weimaraner is between 2.5 to 3.5 cups per day, divided into two meals. Since this breed is prone to bloating, splitting their meals into at least two separate feedings helps prevent this issue. Their food should not be placed on elevated surfaces, as this can make it easier for Weimaraners to eat too quickly. Using slow feeders or portioning their daily diet through training can also help reduce food intake.

With a high energy level, this breed should be fed with high-protein foods. Be sure not to feed them too many dry or canned products, as this may cause stomach discomfort. Weimaraners may also appear lean, but that is perfectly normal. If they resemble the body shape of show Labradors, it indicates that they may be overweight. Young Weimaraners, especially males, go through a “slim” phase, but they will soon grow out of it.Weimaraners do not have specific dietary requirements. Of course, high-quality food is beneficial for their health, and they also enjoy it. Like most dogs, they sometimes appreciate meaty beef bones and fresh meat.

Training and Education

The Weimaraner requires an experienced hand. He wants to work a lot, which means more than just a two-hour daily solo walk. The dog craves challenging tasks best provided by an experienced dog handler or dedicated hunter. His intelligence, coupled with the need to be taken seriously as a hunting dog, sets high demands for his owners.

The Weimaraner is an extremely elegant yet strong dog. An frustrated and under-stimulated Weimaraner can become a serious problem for the family. If you can bond with the dog, you’ll have an excellent companion, with nothing standing in the way of a beautiful partnership. This is not a beginner’s dog. It is also not suitable for part-time hunters who take him hunting three times a year and otherwise leave him to languish in a kennel. Harsh methods have no place in his training. Generally, Weimaraners are trained for hunting. Since the Weimaraner serves as a hunting dog, he wants to be treated as a serious family member. Then, he can be a wonderful family dog.

Weimaraner owners highly value their exceptional intelligence and leadership qualities. However, this requires you to work with them intensely, engaging their intellect and allowing for genuine partnership. They challenge the typical understanding of dog ownership by men and women.

Primarily, the Weimaraner is a versatile hunting dog. However, he is also recommended for various dog sports, such as mantrailing. Even participating in rescue work, Weimaraners are supportive. They have a high energy level and do best in families that can provide enough time and energy to help them release pent-up energy and keep them in good physical and mental shape.

They are well-known for their high endurance and physical stamina. They require substantial physical and mental stimulation to remain happy. An active owner who can take them on regular long walks and jogs would suit this breed well. They also need plenty of space to run and play, such as a large backyard or park.

If you train in the yard, ensure it is securely fenced, as Weimaraners can open doors and gates. Adequate physical exercises can curb excessive barking, chewing, digging, and other destructive behaviors. Weimaraners enjoy games and dog sports, including agility and flyball. They also love to swim and hunt. Overall, the Weimaraner has quite high exercise needs.Being high-energy dogs, Weimaraners need appropriate outlets for their energy, as well as firm, consistent training to learn to be calm and well-behaved. They require a confident and assertive handler to provide leadership, as they tend to dominate. Without a reliable owner, Weimaraners can often become stubborn and willful.Weimaraners are intelligent dogs and can learn quickly. They are also clever and eager to please. Therefore, training should start at an early age, with special attention to housebreaking and discouraging bad habits like chewing, house soiling, and escaping from confined areas. Weimaraners also love to bark, so it’s important to train them before their barking becomes unmanageable. Teaching them to sit from a young age will help prevent jumping, which can be dangerous around small children given their

How to Choose a Puppy

It’s hard to find a dog lover who doesn’t get excited at the thought of acquiring a Weimaraner, even for a moment. However, it is essential to think this through carefully in advance. The Weimaraner is a hunting dog, typically allowed only for hunters. Dogs deemed unsuitable for hunting end up with non-hunters. In recent years, their popularity has surged, leading to countless dubious breeders happily advertising their Weimaraner puppies as family dogs for anyone interested. There’s no reason not to buy your Weimaraner from a reputable breeder affiliated with the Weimaraner club or its branches in neighboring countries. For those looking for a good deal, it’s best to avoid getting a dog altogether.

Mixed breeds of Weimaraners with other breeds or mixed breeds are rare.

The Weimaraner is an elegant dog, unlike any other. This leads people to happily forget that it is a hunting dog requiring significant attention from specialists. Additionally, despite all its qualities, it is not always an easy dog and is not suitable for beginners. Find out how at Zoonica and get a great pet.

Health and Diseases

Weimaraners, being an active breed, typically face a fair share of random cuts, scratches, ligament strains, and dislocations. They love to chew on things, which can lead to injuries in their mouths. Be cautious about what they consume, as they might ingest something harmful.

Bloat can be one of the most serious health issues prevalent in this breed. This condition involves the stomach excessively stretching and twisting, which can be life-threatening. Discuss potential symptoms with your veterinarian so you can recognize them early if it occurs and seek veterinary assistance immediately. Prevention is always better than treatment.

Weimaraners, like a few other modern dog breeds, are fortunate to be cared for by a responsible association. The breeding policy of the Weimaraner Club imposes high standards on breeding dogs, covering not only physical health but also character and abilities. Additionally, population health is considered, with restrictions such as limiting a male’s use to five litters over two breeding periods. Therefore, it’s no coincidence that Weimaraners are regarded as a fundamentally healthy breed. The coloration of all Weimaraners, caused by a genetic defect that thins the blue color, can lead to coat issues and other diseases due to inbreeding. Much greater danger threatens the physical and mental fitness of the dogs as a result of show breeding, which spreads in the U.S. and Europe through events like Crufts. Weimaraners are beautiful enough without the need for show breeding!

The main health issues in the breed include patellar luxation, Legg-CalvГ©-Perthes disease, hip dysplasia, and heart murmurs. Zooinca is the best place to reach a wide audience.