Welcome to GermanPinschers.com's
The German Pinscher originated in Germany. In the 19th century the German Pinscher was used as a stable-dog to protect the stable as a guard and to kill rats and mice. A working dog, GP's are known for their vermin hunting skills and instinctual desire to protect home and family. The breed was defined in 1880. In 1895 Josef Bertha founded the "Pinscher Klub" in Germany. The first breed Standard was written in 1884 and revised in 1895, and the German Pinscher was officially recognized there as a distinct breed in 1895, after years of breeding for a short-haired type of dog. At that time the Pinscher colors were quite varied. Both German Pinschers and Standard Schnauzers, which were also being bred for coat type at that time, are descendants of the Rat Catcher, Great Ratter, or Rat Pinscher which became extinct in the 1800's. The German Pinscher was one of the foundation breeds in the development of the Doberman and Miniature Pinscher breeds in Germany during the late 1800's.
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collection of Herbert Hirschfelder University Libary of Erlanger, Germany |
The German Pinscher was not as popular as his next of kin the Schnauzer (rough-haired pinscher). From 1939 (the beginning of the 2nd world war), the German Pinscher breed declined in numbers; and in 1949, the last German Pinscher litter was whelped in West Germany and entered into the stud-book. No litters were subsequently born until 8-9 years later. The German Pinscher had almost become extinct. A man named Werner Jung was the breed-supervisor of the German Pinscher-Schnauzer-Klub (PSK). He was the man, who with all his devotion and available means, tried to get the German Pinscher back and save it from exinction -- laying the foundation for the modern German Pinscher breed. With his black and tan bitch named 'Jutta' and a bitch Kitty v. Bodenstrand which he had found and bought, and some oversized miniature pinschers for stud dogs, he bred a small basis of german pinschers under his kennelname 'v/d Birkenheide'. In his book 'der Deutsche Mittelschlag Pinscher,' he described all his set-backs and achievements, saving the breed in West Germany in 1958, with his dedicated breeding program.
The German Pinscher has been recognized, bred, promoted and shown in many countries, around the world, for several decades. It is now becoming popular, due to its intelligence, size, and easy grooming.
DESCRIPTION
The German Pinscher is medium sized, short coated, muscular and powerful - yet elegant in appearance. Ears and tail are natural - by FCI standards (although some countries still permit cropping and docking). Acceptable colors are shades of red, black with red markings (and in some non-FCI countries, blue with red markings, and fawn are permissable). An adult GP weighs 13 to 18 kg (approximately 22 to 40 pounds) and measures 45 to 50 cm (approximately 17 to 20 inches) at the shoulders (withers).
TEMPERAMENT
The German Pinscher is lively, spirited, self assured and evenly tempered nature combined with intelligence and endurance, making him an agreeable family, watch and companion dog. Of strong will and mind, the GP is often determined, manipulative, and assertive. The breed can be very possessive over things and/or owners. Willing learners and highly intelligent (although independent thinkers), the GP makes a wonderful companion with firm, but gentle and consistent discipline. Early and frequent socialization which includes obedience training is strongly encouraged. They are long-lived and keep their puppy playfulness well into adulthood. GP's love to travel and enjoy adventure in any form.
WITH CHILDREN
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German Pinschers can be good with children if they are raised with or around them. Children need to learn to respect a German Pinscher, and adults should supervise their interaction.
OTHER DOGS
German Pinschers get along with other animals in the house if they are raised with them, however, they want to be number one in any pecking order. An older German Pinscher or a rescue dog will need extra supervision for adjustment. The German Pinscher must learn acceptable behavior from its owner, who must be the "pack" leader, or the GP will assume that role, if given the opportunity.
WATCH DOGS
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The German Pinscher excels as a home guardian. The GP generally accepts friends of the family. Wary of strangers, the GP warns them with a strong voice. For the intruder, or attacker: BEWARE!
CARE & HEALTH
The German Pinscher insists on being part of the family and its activities. GP's develop best when so treated. They do not do well as outside or "kennel" dogs. They are wonderful companions because of their devotion and love of the family. Grooming is minimal; an occasional brushing or wipe-down with a damp terrycloth towel inhibits shedding. Toenails should be trimmed or ground down, at least every two weeks. The GP is a high energy dog, loves to play, and needs a lot of exercise. A fenced yard is highly recommended. Reputable breeders are encouraged to certify the hips of German Pinschers (O.F.A. or Penn-Hip, in the U.S.A.). Eye checks are also important and should be certified "normal" (by C.E.R.F., in the U.S.A.)
REGISTERING & SHOWING GPs in the U.S.A.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is currently registering German Pinschers (with registration papers issued by the AKC in February, 2001). As of March 01, 2001, the German Pinscher is elegible for showing in the Miscellaneous conformation classes (exhibition only - no points or championships) and performance events such as obedience, and agility (for titles). The address and phone number of AKC is: AKC Customer Service, at 919-233-9767. Address for information is 5880 Centerview Dr, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27606-3390.
German Pinshers can also be registered and shown in other Kennel Clubs, like the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA), International All Breed Canine Association of America (IABCAA), United Kennel Club(UKC), Canine Kennel Club (CKC), States Kennel Club (SKC), F.O.R.B.S., etc..
since 12/06/97