8-10 lbs
10-12"
Germany
The Miniature Pinscher is not a small version of the Doberman Pinscher, though this pint-sized breed is almost a miniature replica of the larger dogs. In fact, the Miniature Pinscher pre-dates the Doberman. Affectionately called the Min Pin for short, they are descendant of the German Pinscher family and may have Italian Greyhound and Dachshund breed ancestry as well. This breed has been formally documented in the last 200 years only, so the ancestral origins of the Min Pin are widely debated. However, this regal breed has been seen gracing Renaissance paintings, and relics of their existence have shown up in artifacts 2000 years old.
The Miniature Pinscher is not to be confused with the large Doberman Pinscher breed, although the Min Pin looks like a shrunken replica. The Doberman is a younger breed than this one. Unfortunately, the Min Pin’s ancestry is under debate. Most people can agree this breed is very old, dating to possibly 2,000 years ago, but detailed accounts of this breed were only kept starting in the 19th century. Most believe they hail from the German Pinscher family, Pinscher being the German term for used for biter or terrier. Some people have also suggested the Italian Greyhound and the Dachshund influenced breed development. The red coat variety of the dog was nicknamed the Reh Pinscher for their similarity to small red deer living in Germany at the time. By the late 1800s, development of the canine was underway and the Pinscher Klub was formed in Germany; the association was later renamed the Pinscher-Schnauzer Klub. By 1900, the Min Pin was being shown at the Stuttgart Dog Show in Germany. Only a short 19 years later, they arrived in the United States where they gained popularity. By 1929, the Miniature Pinscher Club of America was formed and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club the same year. Originally, this breed was used to help control the rat populations just like a Manchester Terrier, but now the Min Pin is considered a wonderful companion dog. Today, this small package breed with their regal look and stout heart has earned the nickname “King of Toys”.
A structurally well-balanced dog full of poise and grace, the Miniature Pinscher has fearless animation, high spirit, and self-possession. Their head is tapered and narrow with slightly oval-shaped dark eyes. The Min Pin’s ears are set high on the head and stand erect from the base. The muzzle is strong, not delicate and ends in a black nose except for those with chocolate coats, whose noses are self-colored. The Min Pin’s lips are tight, the cheeks are small, and the bite is scissor. The Miniature Pinscher’s shoulders are clean and moderately angled with elbows set close to the body. As viewed from the front, their forelegs are straight and strong with small, catlike toes. The hind legs are straight and well-angled with well-muscled thighs. Like the front feet, the back feet are small with well-arched, catlike toes. The Min Pin’s tail is usually cropped in proportion to the dog and stands above back level. They can come in a variety of colors but are most often seen in red or black with defined rust-colored markings on the face and chest.
The Miniature Pinscher has a short, thin coat that makes maintaining them a breeze. Light brushing once a week is sufficient for keeping a shiny, well-groomed coat. It is not recommended to bathe or shampoo your little companion unnecessarily. Bathing can dry out this breed’s skin and lead to unhealthy skin conditions. Many Min Pin owners use a wet washcloth to bathe their dog when necessary. You should start at the head, removing any dirt from under the eyes, and move your way back towards the tail. Teeth cleaning and toe-nail clipping are also suggested to keep your Min Pin feeling and looking healthy. The Miniature Pinscher is a playful dog with a lot of energy, so this breed needs plenty of exercise to burn up the excess energy. They do not do well on their own and need human interaction and play time. The Min Pin’s short, thin coat does not make this breed ideal for colder climates, and they don't tolerate overly hot climates either. Temperate zones are the ideal climate for a Min Pin and this dog, though extremely playful, adapts well to apartment and city living. When it comes to feeding your dog, this breed is a toy size and requires ½ to 1 cup of dry food divided into two meals daily. However, the amount of food you feed your furry buddy will depend on their activity level, age, and metabolism. Monitoring your dog’s nutritional health and adjusting amounts as needed will ensure you keep your Min Pin healthy.
The Miniature Pinscher is not just called the “King of Toys” for their regal look. This pint-sized breed has a strong pack-leader mentality, and novice dog owners may find themselves being ruled by a small, playful monarch. Early and frequent training and socialization will help train your pup to respond to your leadership. They are a family-oriented dog that loves children. However, as a small dog, spending unsupervised time with young children may not be wise. Always guard your children and your dog from accidents with proper supervision. Though this breed is very affectionate with their family, the Miniature Pinscher is shy around strangers and not overly friendly with other dogs and or cats. If you intend on keeping other dogs, you must socialize your pup at an early age to prevent any negative behavior towards other pets. With high energy levels and a spirited countenance, they need a lot of exercise and a chance to run around. Training your Min Pin can be frustrating because they only respond moderately well. With time, consistency, and patience, this breed can be a loyal, fun companion for the family.
