Breed Information

GENERAL - The German Pinscher is a smooth coated, squarely built, medium sized dog with good muscle development allowing for endurance and agility. German Pinschers are known for their vermin hunting skills and instinctual desire to protect their home and family.

ORIGIN - The German Pinscher originated in Germany and is included in the origins of the Doberman, Miniature Pinscher and other Pinscher types. They are descendants of the Rat Catcher, Great Ratter or Rat Pinscher which became extinct in the 1800's. Early on, they were more closely related to the Standard Schnauzer, as breeders in Germany had litters with both wire haired and smooth haired puppies. In 1895 the Pinscher Schnauzer Klub was founded and made the distinction between the two breeds based on coat type. As a result of both World Wars, the German Pinscher was close to extinction in its native land. In 1958, Werner Jung began a breeding program to save the breed by obtaining foundation stock from behind East Germany's Iron Curtain.

TEMPERAMENT - The German Pinscher is a ratter and has a strong prey drive and a terrier type personality. They were selectively bred to be territorial and have the inherent desire to protect their home and family. GP's can also be very protective of their personal belongings (toys, food, bed etc.) so their owners must be as strong willed as they are. They are very intelligent and learn quickly, but are more free thinking than some other breeds. They are very alert and react with lightning quick reflexes. Overall, the German Pinscher is very alert and intelligent, has well developed senses, an aptitude for training and is fearless with high energy and endurance levels.

RECOMMENDATIONS - German Pinschers are not recommended for families with young children due to their high prey drive. GP's are not recommended for those who have small animals such as rabbits or ferrets in their home. German Pinschers should have a secure fenced yard and ample exercise. Owners should be committed to obedience training from a young age. German Pinschers need to live in the home with their family, but owners must be able to give firm yet consistent discipline when necessary.