Miniature Pinscher

Nicknamed the “Minpin”, the Miniature Pinscher is a distinctly German breed developed several centuries ago as an efficient barnyard ratter. While resembling a miniature Doberman Pinscher, the Miniature Pinscher is actually the older of the two and descended from Dachshund/Italian Greyhound-crosses.

Appearance

The Miniature Pinscher possesses a lean, compact, and proportional build. It stands 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulders, and generally weigh between 8 to 12 pounds. They have a short, smooth coat that can be red or a combination of colors: black and red, black and tan, brown and red, brown and tan, or blue with tan or red, or fawn with tan or red. Their coat nearly always looks neat and clean. They move with a fearless, hackney-like gait.

Personality

Energetic and adventurous, the Miniature Pinscher also retains many terrier-like traits, including independence and stubbornness. With proper training and socialization, the Minpin can become a loyal and protective housedog. They may be scrappy with other dogs and chase after small animals. They can also be unfriendly towards strangers without proper training, but this instinct makes them suitable watchdogs. Their abundance of energy necessitates several play sessions a day.

History

Known as the “King of the Toys”, the Miniature Pinscher reportedly draws its heritage from Dachshunds, Italian Greyhounds, and the shorthaired German Pinscher. While Miniature Pinschers have existed for centuries in their native Germany and Scandinavian countries, development of the breed abroad began in 1895 with Germany’s Pinscher Klub. While progress was handicapped during World War I, the little dog’s popularity has increased steadily and, in 1929, the Miniature Pinscher Club of America was formed.

Care

The “Minpin” needs lots of activity. Due to its small size, their exercise needs can be satisfied either indoors or outdoors. They need several play sessions every day and ideally with a walk outside: however, they do not do well in the cold and should be suitably protected from the environment during walks. This is an ideal indoor dog and should not be left outdoors. Their short coat requires minimal care and only an occasional brushing to remove dead hairs.

Health

Major health concerns in the breed are minimal, although they may develop patellar luxation and Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease. There have also been reported cases of progressive retinal atrophy or PRA which, while uncommon, can be a serious issue. As such, it is recommended that Miniature Pinschers have their knees and eyes tested. The average lifespan for the “Minpin” is 12 to 14 years.

Conditions Summary

 

• Patellar Luxation: a condition where the knee cap moves out of position momentarily, can lead to lameness.
• Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome: a degenerative disease of the hip joint.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy: a degeneration of the canine retina which can lead to blindness.

 

References

The Complete Dog Book. New York: Ballantine Books, 2006. Print.

"Miniature Pinschers: A Guide to Dogs and Puppies of the Miniature Pinscher Breed." The Dog Guide: Helping You Find Your Perfect Dog.

"Animal Planet :: Dog Breed Profile :: Miniature Pinscher." Animal Planet : Pets, Wild Animals, Dog Breeds, Cat Breeds. 

"American Kennel Club - Miniature Pinscher." American Kennel Club - Akc.org.  

"Luxating Patella: A Knee Problem in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.  

"Legg-Perthes Disease (Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head) in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.  

"Progressive Retinal Atrophy/Degeneration in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.