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Is the Weimaraner right for you?
The Weimaraner is a sporting breed developed in Germany to be a personal, all-purpose gun dog, a member of the versatile continental hunting breeds. The Weimaraner is used for hunting pheasant, quail and other upland birds, waterfowl and furred quarry. Not only do they point game, they retrieve as well and are outstanding swimmers. They are bred for intelligence and stamina, to be able to work all day in the field. They love to work and play and have a seemingly endless energy. When not working, they are part of the family, being included in everything you do. They usually have a strong prey drive and may not be good with cats or other small animals. Weimaraners typically have a stronger protective instinct than other hunting breeds. They are often natural guardians or watch dogs. Although they excel at hunting, they can do obedience, tracking are good show dogs, therapy dogs, drug detectors and companions. They are a versatile dog with the brains and energy to do almost anything.
The Weimaraner, nicknamed the “Grey Ghost” for its unique color, is very intelligent and sensitive and craves attention and companionship. They are happiest as a member of the family. They are probably one of the most devoted and loyal of breeds today. Their intelligence and devotion make them willing to please and easy to train. They are dependable and protective by nature. This devotion also makes it very difficult for a Weimaraner to thrive in a kennel or adapt well to a routine of being left alone. With proper training and socialization they are very adaptable and more than happy to share your lifestyle.
Weimaraner puppies have the potential to be one of the most loyal and affectionate companions you will ever have. Yet in order to help them reach their potential there are several things you must keep in mind. Weimaraners can be very dominant and head strong. You need to make sure they know that you are in charge. Therefore the implementation of a structured, consistent training program is vital. Positive reinforcement training programs work best with this breed. If you can not implement a positive, structured training program with your dog, then this isn’t the breed for you.
Weimaraners are also highly intelligent. Therefore, you will need to spend time working to be smarter than they are. A bored Weimaraner can be a destructive Weimaraner. They are a breed for those who enjoy a dog that is intensely devoted and responsive to attention, which the demand. They are very affectionate and love to be near their people and will follow you from room to room, usually lying down with body contact, if you allow. They are not the breed to be ignored for long periods of time! If you don’t have the time to work with and challenge your dog then this isn’t the breed for you.
Weimaraners are a protective breed. An under-socialized or mistreated Weim can have problems with aggression. Again, this is where proper positive training and socialization can make a big difference. If you do not have time to properly socialize and train your dog, then this isn’t the breed for you.
Weimaraners are an active breed. As such, you need to ensure that they get plenty of exercise to take the edge off. You don’t need to be a tri-athlete to own the breed, but it is best if you have a yard big enough for them to run around in. If you live in an apartment, this probably isn’t the breed for you.
Weimaraners are an interactive breed, they need mental stimulation. If you want a dog you can keep in the backyard, or a dog that will just patiently wait for a break in your schedule for attention, then this is not the breed for you. You can do almost anything with this versatile breed, except “nothing”!
If you want a dog that will fully engage you intellectually, emotionally, and physically, then this is the right breed for you!
