German Pinscher

An alert, bold breed with natural guarding tendencies, the German Pinscher needs an active home with experienced owners, who can socialize, train and handle him. This high-spirited dog would run rings around a first-time owner! In the right home, he makes a loyal, rewarding dog that can be trained in a number of disciplines.

The German Pinscher dog breed is of the same origin as the Dobermann, which is larger, and the Miniature Pinscher, which is smaller. A farm dog, with his forefathers working as far back as the 15th century, the German Pinscher was used as a watch dog and ratter. Originally, there were two coat types – and the Standard Schnauzer is thought to have developed from the rough-coated Pinscher-type. The German Kennel Club recognised the German Pinscher in 1879.

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Around an hour's exercise is needed per day, though he will happily accept more if you can offer it. Agility, obedience, tracking and other doggie sports will be enjoyed, too.

Health and common issues

As with many breeds, the German Pinscher can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

Best family dog breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.