Why German Pinschers for me.

I have had multiple dogs in my home since the day I grew up and had my own place.

I love dogs, all kinds, short, tall, big and little. I have had, Dobes, Shepherds, a West Highland White, Jack Russell Terriers, Standard Schnauzers, Golden Retrievers, and had one experience with a rescue English Bulldog. I admire dogs for the unique traits they possess. I have always leaned toward those breeds that are of high intelligence and drive. There also is a "look" that attracts me-- short, tight body. I love the Terrier Group, all of them with few exceptions. I love their drive, alertness and quickness. Now, these are dogs. So, I suppose I could be called a natural for the German Pinscher.  

This breed, it truly is different. I have never owned a more intelligent breed. Their ability to actually reason things out, anticipate actions and activities is the greatest that I have ever seen in any breed. Since they catch on quickly, they are not difficult to train, but it can be difficult to think ahead of them. They have taught me that even an old dog person can learn new tricks. My entire way of dealing with dogs has had to change in order to get the results I want from my German Pinschers. Many approaches that work for most breeds are not enough for this one.  The second they learn they must do something they will start figuring out how to get around it, or will mold the lesson to their liking.

Many try to make the breed something it is not, it is not a Golden, it is not Lassie. German Pinschers are not simply toys to adorn a couch or a lap, even though they can do that quite well. They are all canine, complete with primitive canine instincts. Because of this, German Pinschers are not the dog for the faint of heart, or docile of nature. They demand respect, but in turn will give it. I will suffice it to say, German Pinschers are a challenging breed that will keep you working. They are a high commitment breed, one that requires as much from you, as you do them-- and then some. They are fast, intense, intelligent, and yes, very devoted to their family. Few "average people" can keep up with this breed. It is to me, the epitome of the Germanic breeds, where from that part of the world, the people were hard and intelligent, and their dogs were expected to be the same. They maintain some of the essence of what most breeds began with. I love this breed for what it is, not for what I want it to be. But, I cannot say I love this breed as much as I admire it.

I have eight German Pinscher, and am planning to acquire  more within the next year. After years of owning cropped eared breeds, I have gravitated to the natural ear as a preference. I feel the option should always be available, natural or crop, but most of my dogs will remain with natural ears.

 

I am an active member of the German Pinscher Club of America's Health Committee, because of my concern about health issues impacting this breed. I feel that with such a small gene pool, conscientious breeders can do so much to improve the health of the breed.

I hope to be able to leave this breed better than I found it someday.

Lyn