Big Paw Designs

Big Paw Designs


The Weimaraner

Posted: 30 Mar 2010 08:51 AM PDT

This breed originates from Germany and was named after the Grand Duke of Weimar, Charles August, whose court enjoyed sport. They were originally used for hunting, tracking and bringing down big game. However, these dogs have many other skills too and can be used for retrieving, guarding, agility and police search and rescue work.

One of the most striking things about the Weimaraner is its shimmering steel-colored coat and beautiful eyes. They come in long and short haired varieties, although the long haired variety is less common. These dogs are very obedient and easy to train and possess great stamina and endurance; so they do require plenty of exercise.

Weimaraner’s love plenty of attention too and thrive on companionship, but they can suffer from severe separation anxiety. These intelligent dogs make great family pets and are generally good with children.
Appearance
Weimaraner’s are rippling with muscles. They have a deep chest with well-sprung ribs and powerful shoulders. Dogs stand at around 24 – 27 inches  in height and bitches at around 22- 25 inches. Dogs weigh 55-70 lbs  and bitches weigh 50- 65 lbs. They have an aristocratic head with a long muzzle and skull and the ears are set high and slightly folded. The tail is traditionally docked and the legs are straight and strong with webbed feet for swimming. The coat is sleek and smooth  – either long or short (the longhaired coat is more prominent on the ears). The eyes are amber, blue/grey or grey and the nose is brown.

Grooming
The coat of the short haired variety is easy to groom and keep in good condition, using a firm brush. The long haired variety will require more thorough grooming. These dogs are average shedders and may need their nails trimmed from time to time.

Health problems
Weimaraners are very hardy dogs, but can be prone to bloat, hip displasia, tumors and pituitary dwarfism, which is a growth disorder. They have a fairly good lifespan of around twelve to thirteen years.

0 comments:

Post a Comment