Miniature Pinscher
Group 1: Toys
Height: 25 – 30 cm
Energy Level: High
Original Function: Hunting
Lifespan: 12 – 14 yrs
Recommended for: Older people, families, most people.
About This Breed
The Miniature Pinscher is not related to the Doberman Pinscher, and is in fact an older breed than the Doberman. Developed in Germany from terrier breeds, including the German Pinscher, the Miniature Pinscher’s original use was in hunting rats to keep the population down in the stables that it frequented. Italian Greyhound blood may have been added to produce such a tiny, high stepping-dog. The word “Pinscher” means “terrier” in German.
Today the dog’s high spirit and bright personality make him a charming companion. Some of the Miniature Pinscher’s talents are competitive obedience, watchdog, and agility.
Generally good with other pets and children so long as the humans provide proper leadership towards the dog. If you are not this dog’s pack leader, they will become protective and may become very aggressive with other dogs.
The Miniature Pinscher can learn extremely well and wants very much to do so. It is certainly beneficial for its socialization to take the dog to puppy courses where it can meet other dogs and people. You will be amazed at how fast the Miniature Pinscher understands and obeys you.
Beware, this little dog will chew small objects and may choke on them. Do not overfeed this breed. A balanced dog will not have the behaviour problems listed above. If they truly have rules, boundaries, limitations, a true pack leader, and a daily pack walk, they will be a wonderful family companion.
Care must be taken in colder weather as the coat provides virtually no insulation from the cold.
General Characteristics
Appearance: Well balanced, sturdy, compact, elegant, short coupled, smooth-coated toy dog.
Temperament: Fearless and alert.
Characteristics: Precise hackney gait, fearless animation, complete self-possession and spirited presence.
Colour: Black, blue, chocolate with sharply defined tan markings on cheeks, lips, lower jaw, throat, twin spots above eyes and chest, lower half of forelegs, inside of hindlegs and vent region, lower portion of hocks and feet. All above colours have black pencilling on toes without thumb marks except chocolates which have brown pencilling. Solid red of various shades. Slight white on chest permissible but undesirable.
Coat: Smooth, hard and short. Straight and lustrous.
Grooming: The smooth, short-haired, hard coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo only when necessary. Loose hair can be removed by wiping over with a warm, damp washcloth. This breed is an average shedder.
Exercise: It is essential due to the energy level of this breed that a secured fenced yard be provided. Miniature Pinschers need to exercise regularly. In addition, when in public this breed must be kept on harness and leash, as it is natural for this breed to give chase if something of interest catches its eye.
These dogs are only suitable for apartments if they have regular exercise. A daily 45 minute+ exercise regimen is a must in order to have this dog in an apartment.
Health: This breed can suffer from joint and eye problems. They sometimes have trouble giving birth due to their small size, but generally this is a very healthy breed.