Learn About the Weimaraner And Its Suitability For You
The
Weimaraner (pronounced Vie-mare-ron-er)
is a sleek looking, large dog. He stands between 24
to 27 inches
at the shoulder, and weighs
as much
as 70 pounds. Weimaraners are strong, athletic Sporting dogs, covered in a smooth,
short gray coat. In fact, even their eyes are gray. Gray
is the most distinctive feature
of this breed.
This
dog has been around since at least the 17th century and surfaced in Germany. He was a prized hunter and water retriever, and has also been used
as a rescue
dog, police dog, and
to aid disabled people. The Weimaraner has
outstanding agility and high energy. He makes a wonderful companion
for active families or individuals.
The Weimaraner has impeccable stamina and powerful muscles that
need to be sufficiently exercised. He not only requires daily vigorous walks,
but also plenty
of opportunity
to run free. Since he needs a
good workout, the Weimaraner
is not a good apartment dog. He can live
comfortably in the city, but it is best for this dog to have a yard he can enjoy and use freely.
Another fact
you should know about the Weimaraners high energy is he can easily knock down children as a puppy. That being said, this breed
does get along well
with children and enjoys playing with them. The Weimaraner can be
reserved around strangers and aggressive towards other dogs if he is not socialized as a puppy. Furthermore, this breed does not mix well with small house pets (IE.
rodents, birds, etc.).
Just as he requires socializing, he also needs effective obedience training.
They are
brave and devoted, but he can become overly protective of what he sees as
his own territory. He can also be very stubborn and hard to control if
his owner doesnt step up and
show him who is in charge.
The Weimaraner loves his family and will want to spend as much time with them as possible. This dog should not be left outdoors, nor should he be left
alone more than is necessary. If you allow a Weimaraner to become lonely he will grow restless and destructive. Therefore, take him with you wherever you go. He loves to travel, and is a great camping buddy.
One of the more
pleasing aspects about owning a Weimaraner is grooming is a breeze. This
pooch only requires weekly brushing to remove
dead hair and to
distribute oils evenly through the coat to make it shine. Furthermore, his short coat sheds no more than the average dog.
You can
expect the Weimaraner to live 10 12 years, which is the average life span of a large dog. The only health problems that
appear to be a concern in the breed is hip dysplasia and bloat (a deadly condition that causes the stomach to twist). Bloat can be prevented in the dog by providing him an elevated
feeder, giving him
smaller meals during the day instead of one large
one, and not
exercising him directly after eating or drinking. Bloat is generally caused when a deep chested dog gulps down too much air.
Faithful, strong and affectionate, the Weimaraner remains a true companion to his family,
all the days of his life.
Richard Cussons cares about dogs of all breeds and the Weimaraner in particular. You can find out more about Weimaraners at
http://www.weimaranersavvy.com/.