History of the German Pinscher Breed
According to some sources, the German Pinscher is an old breed whose lineage can be traced back to the Tanner of the 14th century and the Bibarhund of the 17th century. It is believed that in the 1600s that this type of dog was crossed with Black and Tan terriers which created a dog named the Rattenfanger - an effective ratter and watchdog. Eventually the Rattenfanger became known as the Pinscher, and it was used as a working dog that was often used to catch rodents in and around stables. The public interest in the Pinscher expanded when dog shows became popular in the late 1800s, and the first standard for the Pinscher breed was established in 1884. But the breed was not immediately favored by dog fanciers, and the number of Pinschers became dramatically reduced. The outbreak of the World Wars hampered an effort to register and show the Pinscher, and after World War II, this breed faced the prospect of extinction. In fact, not one litter was registered in West Germany from 1949 to 1958. It was the descendent of the Pinscher, the Miniature Pinscher, which was responsible for bringing back the original breed. In about 1958, four large Miniature Pinschers were chosen and registered with the Pinscher-Schnauzer Klub of West Germany. From East Germany, a female Pinscher was smuggled in and was bred with three of the Miniature Pinschers. Apparently, practically all of the German Pinschers found today are descendents of these dogs. Some say that this breed is the ancestor of the Schnauzer, as well. In fact, at the turn of the century, coarse-haired Schnauzer puppies and smooth-coated Pinschers were found in the same litter, causing the Klub to set a policy which required that proof of three generations of smooth coats be provided in order to register a German Pinscher. Some sources say that the German Pinscher was also at least partially responsible for the creation of the Doberman. The German Pinscher first arrived in the United States in the late 1970s, and the breed was entered into the AKC's Miscellaneous class in 2001. It was in 2003 that the German Pinscher became a member of the Working Group.
Size and Appearance of the German Pinscher Breed
Featuring a square build, the German Pinscher is a muscular, medium-size dog. The shoulders are sloped and well muscled. The front legs are quite straight, appearing perfectly vertical when seen from any side. The hindquarters feature strong, muscled thighs, and are in balance with the forequarters. The round and compact feet feature dark nails; arched, cat-like toes; and dark, firm pads. The head is elongated and powerful, offering eyes that are dark, medium-size ovals with an alert and intelligent expression. The symmetrical ears are high set on the skull, and if cropped, are carried erect. Uncropped, the ears are shaped like a "V" and fold into a pleat. The muzzle of the German Pinscher is long and blunt at the end, featuring a full nose and a strong scissors bite. The elegantly arched neck is strong and moderately thick, which leads to a short back. The gait of this breed is described as strong and well-balanced, offering good reach in the front. The coat of the German Pinscher is smooth, short, and dense and comes in a variety of shades, including: Isabella (fawn), red, and red with black, as well as blues and black with red or tan markings. Markings on this breed can be found at the lips, cheeks, lower jaw, above the eyes, at the throat, on the chest, on the front legs, on the feet, and on the inside of the back legs.
German Pinscher Temperament
Intelligent and fearless, the German Pinscher is often described as a vivacious dog that offers plenty of tenacity and courage. While it may not be a good choice for a family with rambunctious children, this breed can do well with older, more considerate children. It tends to bite first and think later if it assumes that someone is being harmed. It can be wary of strangers and will often not back down when challenged by other dogs. The German Pinscher is protective of its family and its home. Firm guidelines must be set by the owner to prevent the dog from growling at other humans and to prevent the dog from taking over the household. Often, this breed will chase cats when outdoors and may hurt them. Small house pets, such as rodents, are not recommended as this dog is an effective rodent hunter. The German Pinscher does not bark excessively, but will alert the family when something is amiss. This breed is a devoted family dog that does not do well when left alone. It likes to be with its family and can make an exceptional watch dog.
German Pinscher Recommended Maintenance
The only grooming requirement for the German Pinscher is an occasional brushing. It is considered to be an average shedder, but the coat is very easy to maintain. This breed requires sufficient exercise, but can do well in an apartment as long as enough exercise is provided. A well-fenced in yard is ideal, as this dog will take off after anything that moves quickly. It enjoys running and playing in the yard. The German Pinscher can be prone to boredom and frustration if its mind and body are not sufficiently stimulated. Overall, this is a very healthy breed.
German Pinscher Health
Life span: 12 - 15 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: none
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: hip, eye
