Weimaraner
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1943
- Lifespan: 10 – 13 years
- Size: Large
- Energy: Low, Medium, High
- Recommended Crate Size: 48" dog crate*
Return to main Dog Crate Size Breed Chart.
Introduction
The Weimaraner is a large-sized dog that was originally bred for hunting in the early 19th century. In the past, Weimaraners were used by royalty for hunting large game such as deer, boar, and bear.
As the popularity of large game hunting began to decline, Weimaraners were used for hunting smaller animals like foxes, fowl, and rabbits.
The Weimaraner is popular as an all-purpose dog. It got his name from the Grand Duke of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach, Karl August, whose court, based in the city of Weimar enjoyed hunting.
This breed is referred to the "gray ghost" due to the distinctive color of its sleek, short coat. It has aristocratic features, bred for speed, courage, good scenting ability, and intelligence. Thus, he always becomes an active participant in dog sports and as an excellent game hunter.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Weimaraner in 1943. These high energy dogs are known as is an enthusiastic hunting dog. Weimaraners are athletic dogs with both endurance and speed.
This energy makes it an ideal runner’s companion. It also has a strong and instinctive prey-drive. It may tolerate cats but not always because it tends to follow the urge to hunt and likely to chase and kill any small animal that enters the garden. It has a large amount of energy, thus it requires a good physical outlet.
It is a well-rounded hunting dog that excels at pointing, hunting, retrieving, and tracking both on land and water. It has a very strong desire to live and work with their owners, making the breed a good choice for the first-time hunter.
Appearance
It is a medium-sized gray dog, with fine aristocratic features. It represents a picture of speed, grace, stamina, balance, and alertness. The Weimaraner looks like an athlete in appearance.
Weimaraners are considered as great water dogs as evidenced by their webbed paws. The Weimaraner has eyes that may be light amber, blue-grey, or grey.
Traditionally, the Weimaraner has a docked tail. In countries where this custom is still practiced, the docked tail should measure approximately 6 inches for an adult dog, and this is part of the American Kennel Club breed standard.
Actually, tail docking is not an illegal practice in several countries, where the breed is shown with an entire tail.
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to large-sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
Due to the short coat of this breed, only minimal maintenance needed. However, regular weekly grooming is recommended such as brushing with a soft brush, rubber curry mitt, and the occasional bath. This will help to keep them clean and looking their best.
Regular trimming is required for their strong, fast-growing nails. Trim it using a grinder or nail clipper to avoid splitting, overgrowth, and cracking. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of debris and wax which can result in an infection. Teeth should also be brushed regularly.
Exercise
Weimaraners is a dog who loves exercise! It must have plenty of activity, along with lots of quality time with their owner. The Weimaraner could be the perfect companion for owners who can keep the dog physically and mentally active.
The Weimaraner needs frequent exercise and will appreciate play and games. So again, the best owner for this breed will be actively providing vigorous exercise and games as required.
The Weimaraner needs appropriate training to learn how to control its behavior and to be calm. If the owner wants to give hunting training, give it a gentle touch and don’t forget it will learn best from a seasoned hunting dog.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends 48” dog crates* for most adult Weimaraner.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.
