History
The Miniature Pinscher was developed in Germany from terrier breeds, including the German Pinscher. (“Pinscher” means “terrier” in German.) Italian Greyhound blood may have been added to produce such a tiny high-stepping dog. The Miniature Pinscher is not related to the Doberman Pinscher, and, in fact, is an older breed than the Doberman. The original use of the “Min-Pin” was hunting rats, but his high spirit and bright personality make him a charming companion.
Description
The Miniature Pinscher is a small, compact, muscular, sleek dog with square proportions and well-chiseled lines. The topline is either level or sloping slightly toward the rear. The front legs are straight with dewclaws removed. The feet are small and cat-like. The muzzle is strong and in good proportion to the rest of the dog. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The dark, bright eyes are oval. Cropping the ears is optional; the tail is always docked. The Miniature Pinscher’s short easy-care coat usually comes in red, but may also be black and tan, or chocolate. This dog has an unusual high-stepping gait.
Key Facts
- Height: 10 to 12-1/2 in.
- Size: Very small
- Weight: 8 to 10 lbs.
- Availability: Widely available
- Talents: Watchdog, agility, earthdog, and competitive obedience
Notes
Don’t overfeed. Protect this dog from extreme cold. Can be aggressive with other dogs. A very healthy breed, but watch for slipped stifles.
Personality
A hardy fellow, very demanding, headstrong, and intelligent. Proud, spirited, and alert, with high energy. Lively and brave. A big dog in a little dog’s body. Don’t spoil this breed too much or the dog may become a tyrant. The Miniature Pinscher is often called “King of the Toys.”
Behavior
- Children: Best with older, considerate children
- Trainability: Easy to train
- Independence: Fairly independent
- Dominance: High
- Other Pets: Generally good with other pets
- Combativeness: Very dog-aggressive
- Noise: Likes to bark
- Indoors: Very active indoors
- Owner: Not recommended for novice owners
- Friendliness: Moderately protective
Care
- Grooming: Very little grooming needed
- Trimming and Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed
- Coat: Short coat
- Shedding: Average shedder
- Docking: The ears are customarily cropped, and the tail is customarily docked
- Exercise: Moderate exercise needed
- Jogging: A poor jogging companion
- Apartments: Good for apartment living
- Outdoor Space: Does OK without a yard
- Climate: Prefers warm climates
- Longevity: Long (15 or more years)
Useful Links
AKC® Miniature Pinscher Breed Standard
http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/MiniaturePinscher.pdf
Miniature Pinscher Breed Club
Search for a Breeder
akc.org/classified/search/landing_breed.cfm
Rescue Organizations
akc.org/dog-breeds/rescue-network/contacts/