German Pinscher
Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS A GERMAN PINSCHER?
A dog of superior intelligence. The German Pinscher originated in Germany and is included in the origins of the Doberman, Miniature Pinscher and other Pinscher types. They are closely related to the Standard Schnauzer. They are a handsome, robust, squarely built, medium size dog with aristocratic bearing. Black and tan, various shades of red, fawn, and blue and tan, with a short, flat coat. They are not excessive barkers. Noted for guarding the home and family.

They are a high commitment dog: very intelligent, determined, manipulative and assertive. The German Pinschers make a wonderful companion with firm yet gentle and consistent discipline. They keep their playfulness well into adulthood.

HOW LARGE IS A GERMAN PINSCHER?
The German Pinscher is a medium sized dog. Knee high, they are between 17-20" high at the shoulders and generally weigh about 25-45 pounds.

IS THE GERMAN PINSCHER AN EFFECTIVE WATCH DOG?
As a home guardian, the German Pinscher excels. It readily accepts friends of the family, but warns away strangers with a strong voice which it saves for such occasions.

IS THE GERMAN PINSCHER A GOOD PET?
The German Pinscher is not the breed for those who want a slow, placid dog, or a dog that can be "fed and forgotten", for they insist on being a part of the family activities and develop best when treated in this manner. For this reason, most German Pinschers are house pets. They are outstanding companions, known for their devotion and love of the family. However, they are not recommended for families with small children (9 years or younger). Because of their strong will, intelligence and independent nature, early socialization and obedience training is a must. If the owner is too casual about dog training, the strong willed, highly intelligent, independent, spirited German Pinscher will not be a good choice as a family dog.

IS THE GERMAN PINSCHER TRAINABLE?
Due to their intelligence, they learn quickly; but like a mischievous child, they need a firm, hand. They quickly housebreak and learn the house rules. But, they will get away with whatever they can and soon "rule the house" if allowed. They excel in obedience and agility, with enthusiasm and intelligence. The happy German Pinscher is a dog with a job to do. They love to work. Visit the performance page to see how outstanding the German Pinscher is in AKC performance activities.

Please click TRAINING  for information on training your puppy and dog.

WHAT ARE UNUSUAL CHARACTERISTICS  OF THE GERMAN PINSCHER? They are not excessive barkers, as noted above. They love to jump when greeting family and friends and should be trained to resist this temptation. German Pinschers love toys and puppies will de-squeak and de-stuff as many toys as you will give them. Also, German Pinschers will look you right in the eye and some will smile, showing their teeth in a big grin, usually when they are in trouble.

WHAT ABOUT GROOMING?
Every dog, no matter what the breed, needs some basic maintenance grooming: nails clipped, ears cleaned, coat brushed.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE?
The German Pinscher needs daily exercise. They are happiest when they can run free in a supervised fenced yard. However, they can do just as well in an apartment setting if given a minimum of two long walks per day.

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH CONCERNS?
None of the health problems that may occur are unique to German Pinschers. For complete health information, including genetic concerns; prospective pet owners should visit both the Health Page . The GPCA is conscientious in its endeavors to educate the public about any health problems that may affect the German Pinscher

WHERE SHOULD I BUY A GERMAN PINSCHER?
They are not always easy to find, as they are not bred in great numbers. As with all pure-bred dogs, the worst place to find a good one is in the large puppy retailers. To get a good quality puppy, you should go directly to a breeder who is a member of the German Pinscher Club of America. The GPCA maintains a breeders referral list of those GPCA breeders who have signed a code of ethics.

As a rule, the German Pinscher breeder does not breed merely to sell dogs, but to continue and improve upon a lineage which he considers to be the best. Buying from a breeder is not just a business transaction. Here are some questions to ask a breeder when purchasing a puppy.

IS THE GERMAN PINSCHER FOR YOU?
The German Pinscher is not for everyone. They need leadership tempered with patience, respect, intelligence and love. Realize, the German Pinscher will not tolerate much physical or mental abuse from the family children. As in all breeds, temperaments differ from dog to dog; but as a general rule, caution and supervision is important around young children.