Weimaraner

Breed Type: Sporting
Weight: 70 to 85 lbs
Height: 25 to 27 inches for Males, 23 to 25 inches for Females
Coat Type: Either short or long hair

Weimaraner dog is one of the popular dogs of the sporting type, which originated in Germany, in the early 19th century. In the early times, the dog was commonly used by royalty for hunting large animals, such as boar, bears, deer, and foxes. However, with the decline of the large game, it came to be used in hunting smaller animals, like fowl, rabbits, and foxes. An all purpose gun dog, Weimaraner is known by a number of other names as well, like Vorstehhund, and nicknames such as Weim and Gray Ghost. The official name of the dog comes from the Grand Duke of Weimar, Karl August, whose court enjoyed hunting.

History
Though there have been instances of dogs with features similar to the Weimaraner being noted as far back as the early 13th century, the dog breed mainly originated in the 1800s. In fact, continental pointing breeds, particularly the Vizsla, and mastiffs are believed to be the dog's ancestors. Created mainly for catering to the needs of the royalty, for a noble-looking and dependable gundog, the breed boasted of restricted ownership initially. However, unlike other hunting dogs, Weimaraner lived with the family, explaining its present need to be near humans. Gradually, it came to become an all purpose family dog, which guarded home, hunted with the men and played with the children.

In the early years of its creation, Weimaraner was kept restricted within the confines of Germany. It was only in the late nineteenth century that the breed came to have its popularity extended throughout Europe and the United States. Its cheerful temperament, good hunting skills and affectionate behavior made the dog a hit amongst families. However, the rise in the breed's popularity also led to careless matches, which resulted in the creation of some very inferior breeds. This was one of the main reasons why the breeders in Britain and America started becoming exceedingly careful in breeding the dog, for quality and purpose.

Appearance
Apart from being noble-looking, one of the main purposes for which it was created, Weimaraner also seems athletic and balanced in appearance. The tail of the dog is kept deliberately short, being docked to a third of its natural length, at the time of its birth only. Its coat is usually short and smooth, with the color ranging from charcoal-blue to mouse-gray to silver-gray. The eyes may be light amber, gray, or blue-gray in color, but are surely different from those of any other breed. Weimaraner has a long-haired variety as well. Except for North America, it is recognized by most kennel clubs around the world. This variety has a silky coat and undocked, feathered tail.

Personality
Bold, smart, energetic and active, a Weimaraner is strong and determined, needing time, space and attention. This dog loves kids and forms close bonds with the family. It is friendly, eager to work and intelligent and gets along with other household pets, but only if socialized early in life. The breed is quite protective towards its family and is hardly sociable with strangers. Weimaraner dogs learn and understand quickly and are eager to please. They need, and love, lots of exercise, in the form of long walks, field sports, etc. The dog is loyal and loving to its family, an incredible hunter and territorial in nature. However, it is not preferable as dog for children or elderly, as it is too full of energy.