The Weimaraner Guide

A magnificent coat and stunning eyes make the Weimaraner a truly gorgeous breed. However, this German hound is also a top-notch hunter and family pet. So here’s what you’ll want to know about this special canine.

Quick Stats

Group: Sporting

Size: Large           

Height: 22-28 inches (57-70 cm.)

Weight: 60- 85 pounds (27.2- 38kg.)

Shedding: Moderate                    

Grooming: Easy                 

Lifespan: 11-13 years

Weimaraner History

The Weimaraner originated in Germany several hundred years ago. Although the exact breeds used to create it are unknown, it is strongly believed to be related to the German Shorthaired Pointer. Many people believe that Bloodhounds and French hounds were used in its creation.

Another possible is relative is the German hound known as the Braken. The Weimaraner was bred for hunting and with very strict standards for performance. This created a dog that was very hardworking and with an extremely good sense of smell. It also made for a very versatile canine that could be used as an all-around hunter.

The Weimaraner was used for many different types of game ranging from birds to larger animals such as wolves, boars, bears, and deer. Different from other breeds this dog was created for and only allowed to be owned by the nobility. And unlike other hunting dog breeds in particular it was kept in the home as opposed to in kennels.

Weimaraner Characteristics

The Weimaraner stands between twenty-two and twenty-eight inches tall and weighs between sixty and eighty-five pounds. It has a wide yet angular head and the ears are long and broad with rounded tips. It has a gray nose but the eyes can be amber, gray, or blue. The tail is docked and the body is lean and athletic with a deep chest.

The Weimaraner coat is short and made up of thin hairs. In terms of color, it comes in all shades of gray. While it is not as common, there is also a long-haired coat variety as well. The long-haired Weimaraner is lighter in color on the ears and head than the rest of the body with very noticeable long hairs on its ears. Typically the tail of the long-haired type is left un-docked.

Weimaraner Health 

As with all dog types, this breed is known to be affected by certain health conditions. The most common Weimaraner health problems include:

-Von Willebrand’s disease

-hip dysplasia (although generally very low rates)

-bloat

-progressive retinal atrophy

The average Weimaraner lifespan is from eleven to thirteen years.

Weimaraner Temperament 

This is a high-energy dog that’s loving and affectionate. In fact, it usually bonds more strongly with a single individual in the household. Weimaraners are good with children and also usually with other dogs as well. However, they may see smaller pets as prey, due to their hunting background.

Because they are so smart they can be a bit headstrong when they want to get their own way. This breed does have protective instincts and along with their fantastic hearing and sense of smell, it makes them a naturally good guard dog for their family.

Weimaraner Care 

Because this breed was created to hunt tirelessly all day long, it does require vigorous exercise or play sessions on a daily basis. It, therefore, does best with active individuals, families, and of course hunters. Since the breed can be strong-willed, Weimaraner training should start when the dog is young. They need a confident owner but also someone who is kind, patient, and understanding.

This is a breed that should live indoors with its family but never be left alone for long hours. Like many other hunting dogs, they should never be trusted with smaller pets and animals. While some individuals may get along with cats this is not the norm.  Weekly brushing is all that is needed to keep this breed’s gorgeous coat looking both sleek and shiny.

Weimaraner Facts

-The breed gets its name from the German town of Weimar where it originated.

-In its native Germany the Weimaraner is known as the Vorstehhund.

-Since they were bred as hunting dogs that lived with their family in the home and not with a pack, the Weimaraner needs to be around its people. It’s not an independent breed and if left alone is prone to developing severe separation anxiety which may lead to nuisance barking or destructive behavior.

-The glistening silver Weimaraner coat is the reason the breed is sometimes referred to as the Grey Ghost. In fact, the coat has a natural sheen and if you look carefully you can see it shimmer in the sunlight.

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