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The Miniature Pinscher
is an interesting breed of dog but do not let its
looks fool you. This dog is not just a small version
of the well-known Doberman Pinscher. In fact, the
Miniature Pinscher is a separate breed with its own
spirit, pride, and energy. Therefore, having this
tiny piece of dynamite in the home may take some
extra care and attention. However, owners often
report that once they have a Miniature Pinscher,
they would not have any other kind of pet. We have
put together 10 of the most common questions about
this breed with answers for each.
1. What is the history and background of the
Miniature Pinscher?
Again, this is not a miniature version of the
Doberman or the German pinscher. The Miniature
Pinscher was bred specifically from breeds as varied
as the dachshund and the Italian Greyhound, and was
often seen catching such animals as mice, rats, and
other small vermin in the home and outside. This is
actually an older breed than the Doberman, with
roots as far back as 200 years.
2. What special
activity does the Miniature Pinscher like?
People often enjoy the unstructured energy of this
breed, with its spunk and pride. The dog seems to
have a sense of humor, responding to the actions and
laughter of people who are watching. With proper
training and handling, the Miniature Pinscher can be
very good at competitive obedience trials and other
shows, but it needs a firm and consistent hand. This
dog loves to explore and will “attack” and capture
small objects or animals.
3. Does the Miniature Pinscher get along with
other dogs?
If you buy a puppy from a good breeder who has taken
the time to properly socialize the dog, you will
find that your pet gets along with other animals
most of the time. Some adult Miniature Pinschers can
be aggressive toward other dogs and will sometimes
seem fearless when something suspicious or
threatening occurs. Basic obedience training is a
must for this breed.
4. What is the best way to housebreak/paper train
my Miniature Pinscher?
Different breeders and experienced owners have
various methods, but many owners report success with
paper training in the house, if the training is
consistent. Additionally, training should not
interfere with the dog’s playful and sometimes
frustrating nature. Training the dog to go outside
works best, as long as you stay on a tight schedule
of taking your dog outside several times each day,
at the same time every day if possible. This is a
very intelligent breed, but the dog can be stubborn
and try to outthink you.
5. Does the Miniature Pinscher make a good
outside dog?
Not usually considered an outside dog, the Miniature
Pinscher will be better as an inside dog, even in an
apartment or small home. However, this breed needs
exercise and time to explore in a fenced yard or on
a leash. It would be best not to leave your pet tied
outside and not to leave it alone for an extended
amount of time.
6. Is this a good breed for children?
Generally, the Miniature Pinscher does well with
children, but buying a well-bred and properly raised
puppy from a good breeder is essential to get a
young dog that is comfortable around people. The
Miniature Pinscher does not do well with rough
handling and will not tolerate a lot of silly
activity. However, this dog is loyal and friendly to
those people it knows.
7. How big does this breed get?
The Miniature Pinscher, commonly known as the King
of the Toy Dogs, stands about 10 inches to 12 inches
at the withers and weighs 8 pounds to 10 pounds.
This breed is a muscular and compact dog that tends
to overeat and become obese. For this reason, you
need to carefully monitor the dog’s diet and make
sure it gets adequate exercise.
8. What health problems should I be aware of with
the Miniature Pinscher?
This breed is one of the more healthy breeds, but
owners should ask about hereditary conditions such
as retinal atrophy and luxating patella (knee
problems) when shopping with breeders. Generally,
this breed of dog is clean and healthy, with short,
coarse coat that does not present many health
problems.
9. Should I keep small toys and chewing items
from my Miniature Pinscher?
Yes, it is recommended that you not leave small
items such as pens, pencils, small toys, bottle
caps, etc. lying around because the Miniature
Pinscher will investigate and “attack” these things.
Sometimes, the smaller objects will pose a risk of
choking. Therefore, it would be best to give our
Miniature Pinscher a larger, chewable item.
10. Is it true that this breed is hard to train?
The Miniature Pinscher can be a challenge to train,
because it has lots of pride and can be
self-possessed. For instance, your pet may try to
bluff you and dominant training sessions unless you
are firm and consistent in your demands. We
recommend not going to extremes of spoiling this
breed because the dog will take advantage of you if
you do. Just remember, this dog does not tolerate
rough, harsh treatment either.
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