The Weimaraner

The Weimaraner ~ often referred to as the grey ghost ~ belongs to the H.P.R group of gundogs – Hunt, Point and Retrieve. This means they are an all purpose gundog that locates the game, points it and then flushes it on command, retrieving it when shot.

There is a lot of history ~ and an element of secrecy ~ surrounding the breed. Karl August born in 1757, was the head of the court of Weimar and he originally developed the weimaraner to bring down wild boar and deer as the forests around Weimar were heavily populated with game. Bred to be owned and hunted by nobility, they were well protected, and their breeding was very closely controlled.

The history of the longhair is even more mysterious. Many claim that setter was bred in to create the soft silky coat. The LH was first shown at Hanover Show back in 1879 but it was some time before puppies were recognised in a litter. The first LH puppies believed to have been bred in Austria in the 1930s, but it wasn’t until 1935 that it was decided to officially recognise the longhaired variety.

The Weimaraner today is a beautiful, athletic and powerful dog with superb scenting ability ~ the breed standard clearly states that ‘hunting ability is of paramount importance.’ This can make the breed very headstrong and they require an owner who understands what makes them tick and how best to control their natural ability. Their intelligence makes them quick to learn whether it be learning the right or the wrong things ! Weims can show a stubbornness that has to be admired often asking ‘why ?’ with a quizzical expression. They are full of character, affectionate, loyal, obedient and biddable given the right upbringing. They respond to firm, fair and consistent training from all family members, which should be started as soon as their little grey paws cross the threshold. Give them an inch and they may well take a mile!

Many say that the weim is not the breed for a first time dog owner, however with the commitment to understanding their needs and training requirements, they can be extremely rewarding. Owners that rise to the challenge, without question, reap what they sow!

Further, more detailed information on history; character & breed standard can be found by following these links.