Weimaraner Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Weimaraner?

The Weimaraner has a more recent history than other hunting dog breeds, which sometimes dates back hundreds of years.

Weimaraners originated in Germany in the 1800s and were originally bred as the ultimate sporting dog. Weimaraners were bred using French and German sporting dogs. An adult dog was used by hunters to track and take down large animals, like wolves and bears.

Through the years, the Weimaraner became popular as a gun dog. They were widely used to point and retrieve fowl and other game birds. The breed was recognised in 1897, which led to the formation of the German Weimaraner Club. Only people that were a part of this National Breed Club were allowed to breed Weimaraners.

Weimaraners were imported to the United States in 1938 and were officially recognised by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1943. Today, there is a great demand for Weimaraner puppies, as they are included in the 40 most popular breeds of the AKC. This popularity has led to the development of the Weimaraner Club of America.

Who are Weimaraner dogs best for?

Weimaraners are perfect for people who want a large dog that enjoys being active, or people that want to participate in dog sports. Weimaraners need a lot of stimulation and exercise to prevent bad habits and naughty behaviours.

Weimaraners are pack animals and love to be around their humans. If you socialise your Weimaraner puppy well, it will tolerate other dogs. Because of their hunting nature, it is best to keep Weimaraners away from other smaller pets that are not dogs, as they might tend to hunt and kill other pets.

These dogs are good watchdogs, and they have a deep bark, but they do not enjoy being left alone for a long time.

Although a great family dog, you should teach children how to behave around the dog to prevent any accidental injuries (an excited Weir can easily knock over a small child!).

How much grooming does a Weimaraner need?

Weimaraners are incredibly easy to groom. Their short coat means that you can just occasionally run a rubber brush over the fur the get rid of excess hair. You can wash your dog when it starts to smell or feel dirty.

They are prone to ear infections, so you will have to clean their ears and brush their teeth to maintain dental hygiene. If required, you will also have to occasionally trim their nails.

Your Weimaraner will shed moderately throughout the year, but twice a year they will experience a heavy shed (similar to other hunting dog breeds) and you will find dog hairs all over your home.

Do Weimaraner bark much?

When compared to other dogs, the Weir barks a lot.

Weimaraners have a lot of energy and require a lot of stimulation. Although they have a lovely nature, they also have the bad habit of barking frequently.

Barking is a tool used during hunting, so it is not too surprising that this hunting dog is a big barker. It is how the breed communicates.

Here are some reasons why your Weimaraner may be barking:

• It is bored, alone, or lacking stimulation.

• It perceives something as an imminent threat.

• It is defending its owner or territory.

• It is trying to establish dominance.

• It is barking for attention - it could be indicating that it is hungry or thirsty, or want to play.

Do Weimaraner bite?

Weimaraners are not aggressive; however, they are hunting dogs, and therefore biting is a part of their nature. This breed will only bite under certain conditions, and proper training coupled with a safe environment can get rid of the nipping trait.

Even the puppies will bite, so it is best to train out this behaviour at a young age. The biting is either to establish dominance or to show how strong they are - it is not intended as a hurtful action.

Weimaraners are easy to train because of their intelligence, so training them properly will be easy.

What is the temperament & personality of a Weimaraner?

Weimaraners are incredibly active and can become destructive without physical and mental stimulation. They are loyal and dedicated companions, preferring the company of their owners to being alone. Their high intelligence means they need plenty of activities to stimulate their minds.

Their temperament can be described as alert, energetic, slightly stubborn, powerful, and steady. With proper socialisation and training, these active dogs are lovely and kind pets who simply seek to please their owners.

What is the weight & size of a Weimaraner?

Weight:

• Male Weimaraner: 31 - 40 kgs

• Female Weimaraner: 25 - 34 kgs

Height:

• Male Weimaraner: 63.5 - 68.5 cm

• Female Weimaraner: 58 - 63.5 cm

How much training does a Weimaraner need?

Weimaraners are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Training must be consistent, as this dog breed can become stubborn.

Weimaraners enjoy chewing on objects, so you must establish your authority from a young age and teach your dog what it is allowed to chew.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Weimaraner?

Weimaraners from reputable breeders will not present a lot of health issues. Your breeder should provide proof of health screening tests for the eyes, thyroid and hips of the parent dogs.

Other health issues that might arise in your Weimaraner include:

• Hypothyroidism: This is a completely manageable condition that can be tested for. This condition prevents a dog from producing thyroid hormones. Medication can provide the required hormones so the dog can live a long, healthy life.

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a common problem in larger purebred dogs, and affects the stability of the hip joint. The ball and socket of the joint can become disconnected. This condition is treatable.

• Elbow Dysplasia: This occurs if there are growth abnormalities in the dog's elbows.

• Von Willebrand Disease: This condition prevents blood from clotting, which can cause wounds to continuously bleed.

• Gastric Dilation Volvulus: Also called bloat, dis condition causes the dog's stomach to expand and rotate. It is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical attention.

What is the lifespan of a Weimaraner?

The average life expectancy of a Weimaraner is 10 to 13 years.

How much should you feed a Weimaraner?

Like other sporting dogs, the Weimaraner should be given a high-protein diet. Because of the potential for bloat in this breed, the food should be given in small meals spread throughout the day. You can also reduce the risk of bloat by using an elevated food bowl or slow-feeders.

The intelligence of the Weimaraner means he can use wits to outsmart you. Your Weimaraner is guaranteed to try to convince you that it needs more food or deserves a treat. Treats should be given in moderation, and avoid feeding your dog food from your plate, as this could lead to obesity (and bad begging behaviour).

What is the price of a Weimaraner in Australia?

A Weimaraner can cost you anywhere from $1000 to $2,100.

Dogs that meet the breed standard and descend from show champions can cost more than $4,000.