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The Miniature Pinscher (sometimes called a Minpin) is the perfect breed for those who like the presence and strength of a large dog like the Doberman Pinscher, but don't want the typical hassles associated with owning a large dog.

Short History of the Breed

The Miniature Pinscher originated in Germany, and was bred to hunt vermin and rats. Although the name and appearance would cause many to believe they were bred as mini Dobermans, this is not true. Miniature Pinschers have been around for several hundred years and are, in fact, the predecessors to Dobermans, which were bred to resemble Miniature and German Pinschers. "Pinscher" in German, means terrier (or 'biter'). These little ones look like little deer and can have a similar hop-leap in their gait.

The Miniature Pinscher was imported to the U.S. in the early 1900s and was a registered AKC breed in 1925.

Physical Description & Size

Typically a compact 10 to 12 inches high and weighing an average of just eight to 10 pounds, these little dogs may be small, but have a big presence. They are strong, muscular, and have a powerful, chiseled presence.

Size -10 inches to 12½ inches in height allowed, with desired height 11 inches to 11½ inches measured at highest point of the shoulder blades. Disqualification -Under 10 inches or over 12½ inches in height.

Minpins often have docked tails and cropped ears, which gives the dog the signature "Pinscher" look, but this practice has somewhat fallen out of favor in recent years. Naturally, Miniature Pinscher tails are thin and pointed, and the ears flop close to the face.

Miniature Pinscher coats are short and smooth. Solid clear red. Stag red (red with intermingling of black hairs). Black with sharply defined rust-red markings on cheeks, lips, lower jaw, throat, twin spots above eyes and chest, lower half of forelegs, inside of hind legs and vent region, lower portion of hocks and feet. Black pencil stripes on toes. Chocolate with rust-red markings the same as specified for blacks, except brown pencil stripes on toes. In the solid red and stag red a rich vibrant medium to dark shade is preferred.

The hackney-like action is a high-stepping, reaching, free and easy gait in which the front leg moves straight forward and in front of the body and the foot bends at the wrist. The dog drives smoothly and strongly from the rear. The head and tail are carried high.

Temperament

Like their larger counterparts, Miniature Pinschers are proud, alert, curious and intelligent dogs. They are known as the King of Toys because of their regal bearing. They can be trained and get along well with other animals and children. They are extremely loyal and can be affectionate with owners and other family members, but they can be shy around strangers.

Fearless animation, complete self-possession, and spirited presence. This dog is also lively, serious, and has a tendency to bark. Proper and thorough training will ensure undesirable characteristics can be kept in check. Unlike some toy breeds, these dogs are not really happy to spend their entire life as a calm lap dog, but they still make great pets and are excellent guard dogs.

Miniature Pinschers should be supervised around children and do best in households without small children or other pets. Some
are stubborn to housetrain but patience is key with these dogs.

Dog Care (exercise, grooming, diet)

A Miniature Pinscher is perfectly happy living in a small apartment provided its gets daily outings to run and play. These dogs are sensitive to extreme heat and cold and should be considered an indoor pet, since their coats do not offer adequate protection from the elements.

This breed is an average shedder and requires minimal grooming and baths only when needed.

Due to the hunting nature of this dog, it's important to keep small items out of harm's way, both for the sake of the dog and the item in question!

Health Issues, Life Expectancy

This is generally a healthy breed that can live 15 years or more. As with all pure bred dogs, however, there are some health conditions that are typical for the breed. Miniature Pinschers are no exception and can suffer from ailments such as heart defects, eye problems, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy. Getting a dog from good stock and reputable breeder can help to minimize the chances of these health problems affecting your dog.

AKC Group

The Miniature Pinscher is a member of the AKC Toy group, which also includes other small breeds such as the Pug, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, and Shih Tzu.

Additional Resources

• Miniature Pinscher Pictures & Information - PurebredPups.org
• Miniature Pinscher Online Community - DogBreed.org
• Miniature Pinscher Club or America
• AKC - Miniature Pinscher
• Yahoo! Pets

Miniature Pinschers on wikiFido:

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