The Miniature Pinscher dog breed was originally bred in Germany to hunt vermin, mainly rats, in homes and stables. Many people think they were developed by breeding Dobermans to smaller and smaller sizes, and indeed, they resemble Dobermans. However, the Miniature Pinscher is a separate and much older breed.
History
The Miniature Pinscher is thought to be an ancient breed, but documentation can only trace it back a few hundred years. He was developed in Germany to kill rats in homes and stables.
There he was first called the Reh Pinscher because of his supposed resemblance to the reh, or small deer, that used to be found in the forests of Germany. Many people think that the Miniature Pinscher was developed as a mini Doberman, but although it looks similar, it is a separate and much older breed.
The development of the Miniature Pinscher began in 1895 when German breeders founded the Pinscher Klub, later renamed the Pinscher-Schnauzer Klub. It was then that the first breed standard was written. Miniature Pinschers were first shown at the Stuttgart Dog Show in Germany in 1900, at which time they were virtually unknown outside their home country.
From 1905 until World War I, the Miniature Pinscher grew rapidly in popularity in Germany. After World War I, breeders in Germany and also in the Scandinavian countries worked to improve the line.
Personality
He has a feisty, confident personality that both amuses and irritates his owners. He is fearless, intensely curious, and always ready for action. He has non-stop energy and is intelligent and energetic. He is an excellent watchdog.
The Miniature Pinscher might as well be a detective. He wants to investigate everything and if he is not watched closely, he will get himself into trouble.
Known disorders
- Patella luxation (loose kneecap)
