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Miniature pinscher

Miniature Pinscher Dogs:

The Miniature Pinscher is a breed of terrier that was developed from the Pinscher type of dog.



The Pinscher is not really a breed but a type – it has no bloodline connotations, and simply refers to the kind of work that a dog was bred to do. Pinscher simply means terrier in German, and the Miniature Pinscher breed seems to be a descendent of the German Pinscher, just like the Doberman Pinscher.

The Miniature Pinscher is about 12 inches tall, and weighs around five kilograms.



It is a small, muscular, squarish dog with a pointy triangular ears that tend to fold over, and rather typical, bright terrier eyes. The coat is short and smooth, and is usually red. However, the black and tan variety is also quite common, and chocolate, blue, and fawn Miniature Pinschers also exist.



These dogs are very quick and agile, and have a rather unique gait.

Miniature Pinschers are extremely lively, active dogs that run around and play. They are affectionate and loving dogs, but are known to snap without any apparent provocation, usually at strangers. This is often the result of inadequate (or perhaps non existent) socialization as a puppy, which is why this aspect is particularly important for this breed. This breed is naturally protective, and therefore socialization and a proper pack structure are very important. Once you, as pack leader, indicate that a person is not a threat, your dog should submit happily. Miniature Pinscher training is only one way to establish this – in addition, you need to set definite rules and boundaries in the house, and allow your dog appropriate outlets for its energy and instincts. Adequate exercise, play, and mental stimulation are very important for these dogs. Without this, they tend to become destructive, noisy, and aggressive. If you live in an apartment, then perhaps a Miniature Pinscher dog is not for you, unless you are sure that you will be able to spend enough time outdoors with your dog.

Apart from this, Miniature Pinscher dogs do not require much grooming, and are quite easy to care for. They are extremely healthy dogs, and have no known predispositions to any illnesses. Miniature Pinschers typically live for at least 15 years. However, you need to watch out for certain things, such as chasing or attacking small animals and objects, as such instinctive and impulsive behavior can often get these dogs into dangerous situations.

 
  Submitted on November 19, 2009  
 
 
 

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