The miniature pinscher resembles the Doberman pinscher but in fact is of quite different legacy. The Miniature Pinscher originates in Germany, and was originally bred for hunting rats and vermin, as well as keeping guard. It is believed that the Miniature Pinscher evolved from the ancient German Pinscher family of dogs, which ultimately produced a number of the breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club today.
Contrary to common beliefs, they are not bred down Doberman pinschers. In fact, the Miniature Pinscher is the older of these two breeds. Pinscher means Terrier in German. The Miniature Pinscher is reported to include the Dachshund and Italian Greyhound among its ancestors, along with the short haired German Pinscher.
Appearance and Abilities:
Known as the King of the Toys”, the Miniature Pinscher is a tiny, compact, muscularly built, sleek dog with square proportions and well chiseled lines. They may be small and delicate looking little dogs but they have constitutions of steel and a mischievous character.
They appear naturally well groomed and self possessed. The Miniature Pinscher is a smooth coated dog with coat colors that include red, stag red (red with black hairs), black with rust markings, or chocolate with tan.
This perky little dog has a particularly distinctive gait, found in no other breed. It has a hackney gait like the one found in carriage horses.
Temperament and Tendencies:
The Miniature Pinscher is an alert and fun loving dog, with courage, spirit, and enthusiasm for everything he does. Alert, spirited and fearless, they can be willful and too independent. This dog is small, but he doesn’t know it; valiantly challenging intruders with their bold, insistent bark.
You will find this breed to be fearless, animated, intensely curious and always full of vim and vigor. They are also great escape artists; mischief and fun is their specialty. They are great with children as long as they are raised around children who treat them in a gentle way and are taught responsible dog ownership
Training and Care:
It should be noted that this is not a beginner s breed. For a small dog, it is quite a handful.
The Miniature Pinscher should be treated like a standard sized dog and should never be pampered like a small child. With a knowledgeable and persistent training, the Miniature Pinscher can excel in obedience training.
Socialize your miniature pinscher at an early age. This dog does not do well with younger children, as it plays very rough. Children should be careful not to annoy this breed. Also, miniature pinschers can be hostile with other dogs if not socialized well.
Do not let this sweet little dog develop the Small Dog Syndrome. That is when problems start to arise. They will become demanding, headstrong and will begin to bark excessively. Do not allow them to become tyrants by showing natural authority over them. Owners should always assume pack leadership.
The Miniature Pinscher s smooth, short haired, rigid coat is easy to groom. You should comb, brush and shampoo only when necessary. Loose hair can be removed by wiping over with a warm, damp washcloth.
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