Let's talk Miniature Pinschers
The living embodiment of the maxim that “good things come in small packages”, the Miniature Pinscher is tiny but perfectly formed, a sleek little dog full of playfulness, energy and fun. These mini canines were originally bred to catch vermin but have long since left those working days behind them and nowadays make inquisitive, intelligent and energetic pets—always on the go, but just the right size for a cuddle in their moments of calm.
Official name: Miniature Pinscher
Other names: Zwergpinscher
Origins: Germany
| Drooling tendencies: |  |
Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level: | |
Suited to apartment living? |  |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | Medium | Family pet? * | |
| Compatibility with other pets: | |
Can stay alone? * |  |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 10 months |
| Adult age: | 10 months to 2 years |
| Mature age: | 8 to 12 years |
| Senior age: | From 12 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Miniature Pinschers
1. Burrowing instinct
Being able to dig down into rat holes used to be vital for their mission, so burrowing is second nature to Miniature Pinschers. Don’t be surprised if you find them digging into their beds or blankets. Another throwback to their early days as rat-hunters comes in the form of their propensity to chew their toys.
2. Hackney carriage
Miniature Pinschers are known for their high-stepping “hackney” gait, so-called because of its resemblance to a trotting Hackney horse, the breed that was developed to pull carriages and which is also known for its exaggerated step. Just on a slightly bigger scale.
History of the breed
Miniature Pinschers may look like tiny Doberman Pinschers but in fact the two breeds are separate. They do share a common ancestor, the German Pinscher, but the Miniature Pinscher is the older breed.
The exact history of the Miniature Pinscher breed is unclear, but it is thought these dogs, sometimes known as “King of Toys”, are the result of crosses between German Pinschers, Italian Greyhounds and Miniature Dachshunds going back several hundred years. Whatever the breed ingredients, the Miniature Pinscher recipe was designed to create a small rat-hunter, able to dig and burrow into the earth to catch its prey.
Miniature Pinschers have left their vermin-catching days behind them, and their popularity as pets began to grow from the early part of the 20th century. Miniature Pinschers’ combination of dinky size – ideal for apartment-dwellers – and perky personality, means they’re still popular today.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Miniature Pinschers
1. Ears
Outsize ears, either standing up or neatly folded over.
2. Head
Elongated head and muzzle, big eyes and alert expression.
3. Body
Strong, sturdy muscular little legs and body.
4. Coat
Smooth, short coat in solid red or black and tan.
5. Tail
Mid-length tail, often curved.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Miniature Pinscher
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Caring for your Miniature Pinschers
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Miniature Pinschers, with their smooth, short coats, are easy to groom—just a weekly brush and they’re good to go. Like other small dogs, their teeth need to be looked after too: Regular brushing with a special canine toothpaste will keep them healthy.
They may be small, but they definitely need plenty of exercise: Daily walks as well as regular chances to chase a ball or run around and play will keep them contented and healthy. Remember to equip them with a little canine coat if it’s cold; they don’t have very thick coats so they’re sensitive to cold temperatures.
These diminutive dogs are intelligent and independent-minded so training needs to be consistent, positive and patient—and any treats need to be taken out of their daily rations. Puppy training classes can help with socialisation and ensure they grow up to be at ease around other animals and people.
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All about Miniature Pinschers
While we can’t speak for all of them, these little bundles of energy seem to enjoy a cuddle—if they can sit still long enough that is. One way to encourage this is through brushing from an early age. Even if their coats are pretty low maintenance, the ritual is good for bonding. And they’re just the right size to sit on their humans’ laps for a snuggle.
Because they are so small, Miniature Pinschers don’t thrive in families with very young children who might accidentally hurt them and certainly tower over them. And they’re a breed best avoided if you also have small pets such as hamsters—that chasing instinct runs deep. But once trained these dogs make a fun, lively and loyal addition to a family with older kids.
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/