The German Pinscher is a moderately small sized dog, usually weighing between 25-35 pounds and typically 17-20 inches in height, with a short coat. The ideal German Pinscher is elegant in appearance with a strong square build and moderate body structure, muscular and powerful for endurance and agility.
Temperament:
A well bred German Pinscher will be a loving companion with an even temperament. Temperament is hereditary. When considering adding a German Pinscher to a family, it is advised to be able to meet and touch the mother of the puppy you are offered. German Pinschers are generally friendly dogs. They are highly intelligent, quick learners who do not enjoy repetition in training. A well bred German Pinscher can be trusted with small animals and children, though no dog should ever be left unsupervised with either. If the puppy shies away when faced with strangers, it may be a sign of poor breeding.
It should also be noted that German Pinschers are very high energy dogs, in many cases requiring several hours of exercise a day. Accordingly, a large, securely fenced, yard (or some other means of providing the dog with the necessary physical and mental exercise on a daily basis) is highly recommended for anyone considering the breed as a pet.
Health:
The modern German Pinscher has a relatively small gene pool. Attention to potential health concerns is important for the breed in the future. Although we know that testing will not guarantee a healthy puppy, it will increase the chance of producing puppies free of inherited problems, if parents, grandparents, and beyond are tested for the most common maladies know in the breed. We are very fortunate to have but a few conditions that are documented well enough to receive our attention. These conditions are:
1. Hereditary Cataracts *
2. Hip Dysplasia
3. von Willebrand's Disease*
4. Cardiac Disease*
5. Immune problems*
