The Weimaraner Standard describes the breed
temperament as friendly, fearless, alert, and
obedient, but this is but the half of its
personality. Assertive, bold, loyal, and headstrong
also fit, giving the dog a loving attitude with a
willingness to take the upper paw in the family if
the opportunity presents itself. Housebreaking can
be a problem, as can destructive chewing.
Like most large hunting breeds, the Weimaraner needs
lots of exercise and must be kept in a fenced yard
to prevent him from ranging in search of game.
Because he was developed as a hunting dog and still
maintains those instincts, he may be dangerous to
birds and small mammals. Unlike many hunting breeds,
however, the Weimaraner is a house dog and does
poorly when confined to a kennel.
This is a breed that needs obedience training to
control his rambunctious nature. Owners should have
a crate for the new puppy for help in housetraining
and to protect furniture and woodwork from puppy
teeth when the little rascal cannot be watched.
Puppy classes or control exercises at home are
essential for the Weimaraner the moment he enters
the family. He must be taught all members of the
family are to be obeyed. Training methods must be
gentle and firm, for harsh treatment will sour his
attitude.
1. Weimaraners are very energetic animals...they
are bred to hunt all day with their master. Changing
this behavior changes the essential Weim. If you can
not deal with this behavior, you should look at
other breeds less rambunctious!
2. Weims are not soft mouthed like a Golden
Retriever or Irish Setter. They are still the
game hunter and some Weims have a low tolerance for
small fur bearing animals including cats and small
dogs. Changing this behavior again changes the basic
temperament of the dog.
3. Weims can bark and if you are away from them
too much and they are left to themselves,
Weimaraners are like any other lonely dog, they will
bark incessantly and develop bad habits or try
escaping their surroundings.
4. Although Weimaraners are hunting dogs, they do
not like living outdoors. They require your
attention. They are the true, loyal, hunting
companions in every respect, needing your friendship.
Chaining a Weim outside will not work!
5. Inspite of the folklore and myth
surrounding the breed, the Weimaraner is not a
wonder dog. Given the opportunity, he will still
steal the pot roast off the dining room table when
no one is looking!
This may seem like a lot of work, but a good owner/dog
relationship could last around fifteen years. Longer
than some marriages! The time and effort put into
finding a dog that suits your needs and personality,
whether it a Weimaraner or some other breed, will
provide a rewarding experience for both of you over
the life of the dog. |
