German Pinscher

The German Pinscher's name originates from Germany and refers to a Fox Terrier Breed. It is believed that the word “pinscher” was borrowed from the English word “pinch”, a reference to the cropping of ears. The German Pinscher dates back to the 1600s when his ancestors were bred with the Rattenfanger. The Rattenfanger was a sufficient watchdog and ratter, successful at hunting and catching rodents. The Rattenfanger was originally bred with Black and Tan Terriers in order to create the early German Pinscher. The Rattenfanger began to be used as a working dog around the stables and was an effective breed. In 1884, the first standard for the Pinscher was created but did not become popular due to outbreak of the World Wars. There was a period of time in the early 1900s where the Pinscher was close to becoming extinct due to the lack of breeding. In 1958, four larger Miniature Pinschers became responsible for bringing back the German Pinscher from the brink of extinction. They were registered with the Pinscher-Schnauzer Klub of West Germany. In East Germany, three of the four Miniature Pinschers were bred to a female Pinscher. This helped revive the German Pinscher breed. Opinions differ, but it is thought that the German Pinscher is partly responsible for the development of the Doberman breed. In the late 1970s, the German Pinscher was introduced in the United States. In 2001, the German Pinscher was entered into the Miscellaneous class of the AKC. In 2003, the German Pinscher was officially recognized by the AKC. 

The German Pinscher is a medium-sized breed with a short, smooth and fine coat. His stance is elegant as well as his appearance. The German Pinscher has a square build, allowing him to be powerful in endurance and agility. His shoulders are properly sloped and well-muscled. The front legs are straight and appear to be vertical when observed from other angles. His hindquarters feature strong thighs and remain balanced with his forequarters. The German Pinscher's paws are round and compact with dark nails. His paws are arched to look like cat toes. His head is elongated and creates an expression of intelligent and elegance. His ears are symmetrical and are set high on his skull. Cropped ears are erect, if present while natural ears present as “V”-shaped and folded. His muzzle is lengthy and blunt at the end. His neck is strong and thick and the gait of this breed is well-balanced with excellent reach. The German Pinscher's coat is smooth, short, and dense. There are a variety of color combinations such as” black, blue, brown, fawn, and red. The German Pinscher may also have markings on the lips, cheeks, feet, throat, and above the eyes.

The German Pinscher maintains a relatively simple grooming upkeep. The German Pinscher has a smooth, short and shiny coat. He is considered to be an average shedding breed, which calls for weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush. Bathing should be limited to every 4 to 6 weeks and is necessary to help reduce the overproduction of oils in his skin. The German Pinscher is not considered to be a hypoallergenic breed and may pose an allergy risk to people. The German Pinscher does not have a smell. This breed does require much mental and physical stimulation so he does not get bored. Daily walks should be provided if possible. The German Pinscher would fare best in a living arrangement where he would have a fenced-in yard that is spacious enough to allow him to roam far distances with exercise. The German Pinscher is quick on his feet and will chase anything that moves. As long as he is provided with sufficient exercise and play, the German Pinscher will succeed in his home. This dog  does best in a climate that does not become too extreme with weather due to his smooth, fine coat. The German Pinscher does not have a specific diet.