If you are considering a
Weimaraner, keep in mind that this sleek, athletic
dog is usually affectionate and cheerful, but may
also be a bit willful and combative with other dogs.
The Weimaraner can be a rather sensitive dog,
becoming restless and even destructive when left
alone for long periods.
If you add a Weimaraner to your family, plan to have
an indoor companion that will need some outside
exercise, accompanied by a family member. Dogs of
this breed can be good with children in the family,
but because the Weimaraner is so energetic and
quick, young children might be at risk of injury.
Temperament
The Weimaraner is generally a cheerful and
affectionate dog that needs to be around people. A
well-socialized Weimaraner, given basic obedience
training and consistent attention by family members,
can be a wonderful pet. Dogs of this breed can also
be a bit hard-headed and resistant to repetitive
training demands. Patience is the key with this
breed, even if the young dog has been well
socialized by a top breeder.
A Weimaraner is also protective of its own territory
and dogs in the breed have shown bravery and a
strong instinct to prey on smaller animals. A new
owner of the Weimaraner should probably not trust
this breed with small animals such as kittens,
rabbits, etc. The Weimaraner is, however, eager to
please, so if you work with your new pet you can
develop a very strong bond between dog and owner.
Size and Color
Males of the breed can grow to 24-27 inches at the
withers and may weigh up to 70 pounds. Females will
stand about 22-25 inches and weigh 50 pounds to 65
pounds. This sleek animal has a distinctive short
coat of a beautiful gray, though this color can be
of various shades, lighter and darker. Eyes of the
Weimaraner may be amber, blue-gray, or gray. Most
owners will dock the Weimaraner tail and you will
find this breed has webbed feet for swimming.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
The Weimaraner coat is easy to care for because it
is short and fine. Brushing occasionally with a firm
bristle brush will usually keep the coat in fine
shape. Dry shampoo is recommended occasionally but
wet baths should be given only when necessary. The
nice thing about this breed is that shedding is
generally little.
Many owners of purebred dogs have started to feed
their pets’ fresh meats and even some vegetables,
the same items the owners bring home from the store
for themselves. This may be fine for your
Weimaraner, though you should talk with the breeder
and your veterinarian before deciding on a long-term
diet or making significant changes in diet.
Top-quality foods are highly recommended if you
decide to feed commercial foods. Some dogs develop
allergies to the high-grain content of cheaper
brands.
Exercise Needs
This lean, athletic dog will exhibit a lot of energy
and will need to run. This dog was bred as a working
dog so it does have stamina. A Weimaraner will be
happiest when given freedom to run, but care should
be taken to protect the dog from traffic because it
loves to run in the open. It is best not to exercise
the Weimaraner after a meal.
In addition to the joy of having a Weimaraner as a
pet, some owners also have enjoyed success in
showing their dog or in field events. Weimaraners
are hunting dogs and make good hunting companions.
However, when back at the house, they will be
happiest living indoors.
