Typically, the Miniature Pinscher stands 10 inches to 12.5 inches, with desired height 11 inches to 11.5 inches measured at highest point of the shoulder blades. If the min pin is under 10 inches or above 12.5 inches, it's a disqualification.
The miniature pinscher is an energetic, playful, and friendly dog that thrives on owner interaction. They are very loyal dogs and are typically categorized as "one, or two person dogs", but with socialization, they can be integrated into families, and get along with other dogs, pets, and children. Children, especially younger ones, must be encouraged to act gently and responsibly around this smaller breed to avoid injury for both parties. Socialization as puppies will help ensure they can co-exist and interact with other dogs as adults. Min Pins are outgoing, responsive and clever. They will be aloof around people they have never been introduced to, and are very protective of their owners. This protective instinct will manifest as barking and challenging postures. Although originally bred for ratting, they are also excellent watch dogs, barking at all things they deem a threat.
These little dogs will need lots of exercise per day. A backyard would be preferable so they can have an outdoor area to run around in, but it will need to be securely fenced in as this breed is the Houdini of the dog world when it comes to escaping. The breed is a "terrier", not a "Toy Breed"; as such, these dogs' energy level exceeds the traditional concept or idea of the standard toy breed. Daily walks are not sufficient for this breed to wear off their excess energy. Though dog parks can be a solution, the true Miniature Pinscher, being a terrier, can go on the hunt at any moment, so an off-lead dog is a serious challenge with this breed. This dog truly does not see itself as small and therefore will challenge anything, including larger breeds. The breed is rated the 3rd worst breed for apartments due to overall lack of exercise as well as natural guarding instincts which lends the dog to barking and leads to many noise complaints. In addition, the dog can be quite destructive to homes if the dog is not allowed ample time to expel its natural energy that gets pent up when no secure yard is available. 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.
Leg injuries: Because these are small dogs, it is very important to watch children around them. The Min Pin loves to run and play with kids. This easily could result in a broken leg for the dog if the child falls on it.
Patellar Luxation is a dislocation of the kneecap (patella): The kneecap may dislocate toward the inside (medial) or outside (lateral) of the leg, or may move in both directions. It may result from injury or congenital (present at birth) deformities. Both legs may be affected.The crippling effects of patellar luxation are related to the severity and duration of the luxation. The milder forms, especially in small breeds, show little or no signs, and only minimal treatment is required. Severe cases cause more intense pain, with limping. Treatment ranges from rest (decreasing your pet's activity for 1-2 weeks) to surgical reconstruction of the knee joint.
Legg's Perthes Disease: A condition often confused with congenital hip dysplasia. Although the final result is the same, a hip joint with arthritic and osteopoetic changes, the primary lesion is different. Legg's Perthes disease is due to the aseptic death of the head of the femur. This causes wearing and promotes arthritic changes. Thus, after the condition has progressed for some time it is difficult to diagnose whether the resulting degenerated joint is a manifestation of hip dysplasia or Legg's Perthes.This condition is congenital and has no known cure. The accompanying pain and arthritic changes can be controlled with cortisone compounds. Restricted exercise while under treatment, or during an attack of pain, is helpful. An operation for the removal of the head of the femur, thus leaving a muscle joint in the area, has proved successful for prolonging the useful life of your pet.
