Highly intelligent and sensitive, these dogs crave companionship. They are happiest when they are among humans and as family members. Many pet owners mention that they are just like humans in the way they think about problems. So, like humans, they need lots of company and exercise.
The breed can be described as a medium to large-sized bird dog with a muscular body, deep chest, and long neck with a slightly pointed face. Their long ears rest folded and hang close to the head.
A Weimaraner has only two color alleles and to make a Weimaraner blue, at least one allele must be blue. If a Weimaraner has inherited a blue allele then it will be blue.
Training a Weimaraner should begin as soon as the dog is brought home to enforce house/family rules and these should be kept strict so the dog understands what is and is not allowed.
Owners need patience, as this breed is particularly energetic and difficult to control for the first year and a half of its life. Like many breeds, untrained and unconfined young dogs often create their own diversions when left alone, such as chewing on rooms and furniture in the house.
Historically, ownership of these alluring gray dogs was carefully guarded and breeding was strictly controlled by nobles, and later by the Weimaraner Club of Germany. In fact, ownership of the Weimaraner was carefully restricted for decades and only members of the upper-class German Weimaraner Club could own the breed. Given this exclusive ownership, almost all of these dogs lived indoors and were highly spoiled, leading to a strong attachment to family life that continues to this day.
A Weim (as they are affectionately known) is not for an individual or family that works all day or doesn’t have a lot of time to spend with the dog. His energy level is very high. A Weim is a lot of a dog and obedience training is a must. In obedience training, you will learn that walking to the side is a very specific position for your dog, and you will need to use it a lot when you go out with him.
However, Weims are a very special breed of dog and most fall in love with them because they have such human characteristics. But, be sure to research the breed before you buy, and take care to make sure a Weim is right for you. Weims should be tolerated as world-class home decorators and landscapers. They can be like having an extra child!
They have a lot of energy, as they were originally bred to hunt all day with their master. Changing this behavior changes that essential Weim requirement at your peril, so be sure to exercise your Weim continually.
Weimaraners are usually gentle with children, but like any dog, they are not recommended for younger ones because they can be boisterous enough to accidentally knock over a child.
This breed also likes to bark!
But most will love their reliance on human companionship, which is exceptionally strong among these dogs, and the fact that they will give such unconditional love and affection to the family.
