Dog Breeds 101: German Pinscher

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Although the German Pinscher looks imposing, it is actually an excellent family companion. These dogs are great watchdogs because they bark at just about anything and they are completely devoted to their families. Due to their fearless nature, they will do everything to protect their humans from harm. They need lots of exercise so its ideal owner should be someone who leads an active lifestyle. German Pinschers want to be involved in every activity and sometimes, they even like to share the bed. They are quite dependent on human companionship so leaving them alone for long periods is not a good idea. Even if the German Pinscher is considered to be a medium-sized dog, it can still take down an intruder easily. The excessive barking can be troublesome that is why early training is essential to minimize this behavior. Since they were originally bred to catch rodents, they still have the tendency to chase after everything that is small. They should always be on leash and in a fenced area to prevent them from wandering off. The German Pinscher has an average life span of 12 to 14 years and is prone to develop hereditary cataracts, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorder and heart disease. The breed’s average height is 17 to 20 inches and can weigh anywhere between 25 to 45 pounds. [1] [2]

The German Pinscher comes from two older breed of dogs: the German Bibarhund and the Tanner. The cross of those two breeds became the Rattenfanger which later developed into the Pinscher. For lots of centuries, the dogs were prized ratters but after World War II, they nearly became extinct. In fact, two colors of the breed faded out: the solid black and the salt and pepper. A man named Wener Jung began to breed German Pinschers after World War II and saved the breed from completely dying out. [3]