Also known as the Zwergpinscher, the miniature pinscher is one of the most energetic and genius little ones in the animal kingdom. It is a dog with a lot of vitality and an excessively dominant character. For this reason, it is very important to train him from a young age with obedience classes.
Another feasible option to be able to enjoy a ‘calm’ miniature pinscher is to allow it to vent with each walk. The method is indifferent. It does not matter if you walk long and hard with your puppy or allow him to play for hours in the park. The objective is to tire him out so that at home he is as docile as possible.
It is not a problematic animal far from it but, if we facilitate it to burn its excess energy, we will see it and we will want to stay calm.
Despite its appearance and common sayings, the miniature pinscher is not related to the Doberman breed. Yes, despite its size, the miniature pinscher may seem like a tiny Doberman, but nothing could be further from the truth. The only thing they have in common is that they share terrier blood.
Characteristics of the Miniature Pinscher
This breed of dog is classified within the Toy Group due to its tiny size. The average height of a Miniature Pinscher, regardless of sex, is between 25 and 30 centimeters, reaching a weight of between 4 and 6 kilograms.
It is a dog with unmatched intelligence, who likes to take initiative and be a pack leader. You have to teach him to socialize with other dogs and educate him, from a young age, that he does not have to be the alpha male always. It is difficult for him to get along with other dogs.
The miniature pinscher is very loyal and loving to its humans. The downside that could be put is that he considers that every member of the family is his property. Hence the importance of early education so that the dog quickly learns its place.
Being such a small animal, it takes up very little space and easily adapts to living in flats or apartments. His curiosity and energy will make him a dog that sniffs everything every two to three. He has a great tendency to bark but, well educated, he will guard his home like no one else and will faithfully follow his master in everything he tells him.
He has a tendency to mischief and to seek trouble. In case you cannot be aware of it at all times, you will have to make sure that you leave it in a place where it cannot accidentally hurt itself. One of his passions is to hide from his master to find him. Each call will encourage you to better hide until you are found.
Its genius and great temperament make the miniature pinscher the ideal pet to keep the house, regardless of being a toy dog.
Basic Information
- Height at the withers: between 25 and 30 cm.
- Weight: approximately 4 to 6 kg.
- Coat: dark reddish, sometimes with brown spots. Short, dense and very shiny hair.
- Average life span: between 13 and 15 years.
- Character: nervous, agile, with a tendency to fight but affectionate and loyal to the family.
- Relationship with children: excellent.
- Relationship with other dogs: bad.
- Skills: companion and guard dog.
- Space needs: indoor.
- Food: 60 to 70 gr. dry whole food daily.
- Arrangement: low.
- Maintenance cost: low.
Breed History
The origin of the miniature pinscher dates back to the 18th century in German lands. What is not known for sure is the variety of races involved in its birth. One theory bets on the cross between English greyhounds, dachshunds and terriers. Meanwhile, the other party bets on an origin based on crosses between manchester terrier and toy.
Like the Andalusian winemakers, the purpose of the miniature pinscher was none other than to eliminate rodents and shrews from the German farms of yesteryear. The meaning of his name translates to ‘teether’ and, given his character, it fits him like a glove.
It was not until 1919 that miniature pinscher specimens began to be carried outside of Germany. Its first destination was the United States, where it took little time to become popular and in 1929 the Miniature Pinscher Club of USA was founded .
The health of the Miniature Pinscher
Care
It is a strong breed of dog with a long life expectancy, which can even exceed 15 years. They are generally in good health but are particularly prone to knee dislocation or hip dysplasia.
Your skin is sensitive and, if not given proper attention, you can easily get scabies. In addition, these animals are also very prone to epilepsy. But, do not panic, with the proper veterinary treatment, his life is completely normal.
Also pay special attention to the eyes of the miniature pinscher. They are prone to progressive retinal atrophy, and can go blind if not remedied.
Feeding
The miniature pinscher is a very small dog and, despite its energy level, it does not need large amounts of feed to eat a healthy and balanced diet. Don’t be fooled by his pleas and just give him the portions he needs.
The most common diet for miniature pinschers is dry food. 60 or 70 grams of feed per day are more than enough to keep the dog healthy and fit.
How to get a Miniature Pinscher?
To get a pedigree miniature pinscher, you will have no choice but to go to a trusted breeder. A good example is the Pinscher de la Bulería, a breeding ground for fantastic specimens of the breed located in Seville.
On the other hand, promoting adoption in the face of the infinity of abandoned animals, you can always go to an association, shelter or kennel. Surely more than one has the odd specimen of this magnificent breed.
