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About The Breed
The German Pinscher, previously called the Standard Pinscher, is an old breed but was not recognized by the AKC until January 2003. The GP is an alert, intelligent, prey driven dog that is fast to react, agile, hardy and rather independent . This is a relatively healthy and long lived dog. The German Pinscher is comical and seems to have an uncanny ability to communicate it's desires to it's master as long as he or she pays attention. GPs are clean and grooming needs are minimal, even in preparation for the show ring. The German Pinscher has a need for periods of rollicking exercise every day but is a warm (emphasis on warm), willing couch potato and snuggling companion. GPs have an impressive bark used to alert its family to intruders; wildlife or humans. They are silent, stealthy and efficient hunters of small prey.
Is this the breed for you?
The Perfect Dog?? A German Pinscher can excel at many performance events: Obedience, Agility and Tracking. However this breed, being a bit independent would not be a good choice for an owner who doesn't want to put in the time and work necessary to socialize and obedience train the dog into becoming a social, well rounded family member. It is inherent in every dog to take over as leader of the pack if his master doesn't clearly and consistently maintain that role. The German Pinscher is not the best choice for a first time dog owner, nor for a family with young children. It is my own personal belief that NO dog of any breed should be left unsupervised with children under the age of 7 or 8. Even then, children should be taught to respect dogs and how to safely interact with them. Size does not matter here.
The Perfect Size?? The German Pinscher is described as a "medium" sized dog. The Doberman too, is described as a "medium" sized dog. How can "medium" fit both breeds? According to the published breed standards, the Doberman should be 24 to 28 inches tall at the withers and 60-90 pounds while the German Pinscher should be 17 to 20 inches tall at the withers and in the range of 25-40 pounds. The German Pinscher is truly a medium sized dog; easy enough to pick up and carry if need be and an imposing enough figure to demonstrate protection, strength and stopping power. Pound for pound, the GP is a powerhouse of muscle and attitude.
The Breed Standard and a more complete description of the German Pinscher can be found at the following link.
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