WeimaranerCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says there are many theories about the Weimaraner's origin. All that is certain is that, in the first third of the 19th century, dogs of this type, with plenty of bloodhound blood (“Leithund”), were kept at the court of Weimar. By the middle of the century, breeding was mainly in the hands of professional hunters and foresters around Weimar and in Thuringia.

When the bloodhounds fell out of use, the dogs were crossed with “Hühnerhund” (pointing dogs). From around 1890, the breed was bred to a plan, and it has remained pure ever since. Around 1900, the long-haired variety also appeared, rarely. Wikipedia says the breed was recognised in 1891.

How the breed developed

• First third of the 19th century – Kept at the court of Weimar.
• Around 1890 – Planned breeding begins.
• Around 1900 – The long-haired variety appears.
• 27 November 1954 – The FCI recognises the breed.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The AKC says it is instantly recognisable by its silver-grey coat, and its face, with amber or blue-grey eyes and long, velvety ears, has a friendly, intelligent expression. A well-bred Weimaraner has a uniform colour, with at most a small white spot on the chest.

General appearance

In the short-haired variety, the coat is short, but longer and thicker than in similar breeds, very dense and smooth, with little or no undercoat. The long-haired variety has a soft coat, 3–5 cm long on the flanks, straight or slightly wavy.

The standard accepts silver grey, roe grey or mouse grey and their shades. The head and ears are usually slightly lighter. Only small white markings on the chest and toes are permitted.

The standard describes it as a versatile, easy-to-train, balanced and passionate hunting dog, persistent in searching, with a remarkable nose, a good watchdog, but without aggression.

A breeder quoted by the AKC says: “The good news is that Weimaraners are smart; the bad news is that Weimaraners are smart.” It learns quickly, both good things and bad, and works on the principle of “What's in it for me?”, so training must be creative and consistent.

Tips for effective training

• Go to classes. The AKC recommends them.
• Be creative. It asks itself “what's in it for me?”.
• Be consistent. It learns bad habits too.
• Keep it busy. The AKC gives 5 out of 5 for its need for mental stimulation.

The AKC says that, having been bred for hunting, it has great speed and stamina and thrives on plenty of activity: it makes the best running partner or teammate in dog sports.

Tips for a balanced life

• Suited to very active owners.
• Keep its nails short.
• Put away things it might swallow.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says the biggest grooming job is keeping the nails short; if you hear them clicking on the floor, they are too long. The short coat should be brushed regularly.

Common health problems

The AKC says the breed is generally healthy, but the most serious problem is bloat. Watch for:

Other care

• Learn the signs of bloat.
• Do not let it run after a meal.
• Keep it away from small objects.

The AKC says Weimaraners are hearty eaters (“they eat their dinner and then try to eat the bowl”) and recommends good food with a moderate amount of protein.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Split the food into two meals a day.
• Do not let it run right after a meal.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months, but in large breeds it can be delayed until about two years. The body also reaches its adult form later than in small breeds.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In large breeds, a litter has around 7 puppies on average. Socialisation starts in the first weeks: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• The dog of the Weimar court. It was kept there as early as the 19th century.
• Clever, for better and worse. It learns anything quickly.
• It eats the bowl too. So the AKC jokes.
• Light eyes. Amber or blue-grey.
• Long-haired too. There is a rare long-haired variety.

What colour is it?

Silver grey, roe grey or mouse grey.

Is it good with children?

Yes; the AKC gives it top marks.

Does it need a lot of exercise?

Yes, a great deal.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 10–13 years.