WEIMARANER

Breed Group: Gun Dog

For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club

Average height: 57 - 70 cms (22 - 28 in)

Average Weight: 25 - 40 kgs (55 - 88 lbs)

Coat Length: Short (most common) and long (not accepted in the U.S.)

Life Span: 11 - 13 years

Colours: Any variation of gray (dilute brown), with a lighter color on the head and ears that may become more prominent with age

HISTORY

While the exact origins of the breed are somewhat muddled due to lore and wartime loss of historical records, what is known is that the Weimaraner was bred to be the ultimate forester's dog. Likely developed from various breeds of hounds as well as other now-extinct German and French pointers in the Weimar province in central Germany, the distinct silver-gray coat is a breed trademark. The first breed standard for the Weimar pointer was in 1897 and of course, emphasized color, but breed utility was above all else, followed by proper temperament due to the broad-reaching use for these animals. Weimaraners were bred to a strict standard for their extremely talented nose and keen intelligence and work on both furred and feathered game, and unlike many of the other continental breeds, they were extensively used to track and recover large game (boar, bear, deer, etc) as well. This breed is also known for its dependence on people and desire to be with them, which has historical roots as well. As a forester's dog, the Weimaraner was expected to work all day and then rest alongside the family at night, unlike the other utility dogs who were typically confined to kennels. They retain an aloofness to strangers and can be excellent watchdogs but must never be overly shy or aggressive in any way. In their native country, Weimaraners continue to be all-purpose hunting dogs.

L.E.G.S.

Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.

Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.

Shedding

minimal <> considerable

Grooming

minimal <> likely to need professional grooming

Barking

relatively quiet <> very vocal

Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock

low<>high

Response to strangers

happy to greet everyone <> very wary

Affectionate with family

not at all<>very cuddly

Playful

serious<>very playful

Focus on handler (bond)

independent thinker<>very biddable

Excitable/Impulsive

very calm<>easily aroused

Motivated

laid back<>obsessive

Easy to care for

suitable for inexperienced<>challenging

Exercise needs

minimal<>hours daily

Off-lead exercise needs

happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom

Enrichment needs

basic<>needs challenges

WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR WEIMARANER

You'll fall in love with their low-maintenance coat and jovial antics
They possess a brain that is almost human-like and enjoy being with you as much as possible
Weimaraners are always up for the next adventure and easily adapt to being part of the family
You won't find a more loyal companion or one that bonds so deeply with their humans
They don't act their age until they are into their double digits for the most part

WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH

A bored Weimaraner can easily turn into a gray tornado of destruction
They will amuse themselves if they aren't given enough attention, and it's rarely in a way that you find amusing
It is nearly impossible to physically wear a Weimaraner out and they are perpetual toddlers

YOUR WEIMARANER PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS

Some Weimaraner puppies can have more extreme fear stages than others, and they need to be managed carefully. Don't force a scared puppy to face their fears, but do allow plenty of positive interactions with new people, places, and things as they grow up.

YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:

Destructive behavior
Mouthiness
Perceived stubbornness
Killing or chasing small animals
Separation anxiety
Leash reactivity

YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY

Firm, consistent leadership
Plenty of physical and mental stimulation
Don't let your puppy do anything you wouldn't allow a grown dog to do
Crate train

UPBRINGING

Weimaraner puppies need a safe place to stay out of trouble when they can't be watched. Crate training is recommended. It is essential that your puppy learns to self-soothe and be comfortable being alone to prevent separation anxiety. It's also important to make sure that your pup learns how to settle and does not set the tone for how much exercise/stimulation they get.

LIFESTYLE

Lots of off-leash activity, mental stimulation, and being part of the family is what Weimaraners love!

INTERESTS & HOBBIES

Sniffing, running, fetching, playing, problem solving...using all of their senses is what makes a Weimaraner tick!

EDUCATION

Puppy socialization and training is a must, and it's generally a good idea to do some type of follow up obedience as well. Weimaraners are eligible to compete in almost any event in the AKC from hunting (pointing and retriever tests), to herding instinct testing, fast CAT (chasing at high speed), obedience, agility, tracking, barn hunt (finding a rat in hay bales), and dozens of other things. Try it all and see how well they sleep at night!