AKC Ranking: 29
Family: gundog, pointer, versatile hunting dog
Area of Origin: Germany
Date of Origin: 1800s
Original Function: large game trailing
Today's Function: pointing, pointing field trials
Avg Size of male: Height: 25-27 Weight: 55-90
Avg Size of Female: Height: 23-25 Weight: 55-90
Other Name: Weimaraner vorstehhund

History
Germany has always been a country rich in wildlife, and German dog breeds have gained the reputation as some of the best in the world. The Weimaraner was produced in the 19th century by a concerted effort to create the ideal all-around gun dog that could hunt game of all sizes, including deer and bear. This effort was sponsored by the court of Weimer, and the breed was initially known as the Weimar pointer. Some of the breed's forebears include the bloodhound, red schweisshund and early pointing breeds. The origin of the Weimaraner's distinctive gray color is unknown, but it was an early feature of the breed. The breed's progress was strictly overseen by the German Weimaraner Club. Dogs could not be sold to nonmembers, and membership was hard to obtain. Dogs from nonapproved breedings could not be registered, and poor specimens had to be destroyed. Only when an American gained entry to the club and was allowed to take two dogs back to America in 1929 did the Weimaraner leave its native land. Early American Weimaraners performed so extraordinarily in obedience competitions that they aroused great interest. As more enthusiasts were attracted to the breed, they discovered its great worth as a hunting companion. AKC recognition came in 1943. The breed's beauty and versatility as personal gun dog, pet and competition dog have earned it a steady following.

Temperament
The Weimaraner is bold and rambunctious, sometimes too much so for small children. It loves to run and hunt and can become frustrated and destructive if kept penned up. It can be stubborn or headstrong. It functions best with an active owner who enjoys outdoor activities and wants a fun-loving companion.

Upkeep
Daily strenuous exertion is a must for the Weimaraner. This is not a breed for city life unless its owner is a jogger. It needs to stretch its legs, run and explore in a large, safe area. It needs a yard at home, and although it can live outdoors in warm climates, it is not suited for cold nights outside. As a social dog, it does best when it can divide its time between indoors and out. Coat care is minimal: occasional brushing to remove dead hair.

Health
• Major concerns: gastric torsion
• Minor concerns: spinal dysraphism, CHD, entropion, distichiasis, vWD, hemophilia A, hypertrophic osteodystrophy
• Occasionally seen: ununited anconeal process, eversion of nictitating membrane
• Suggested tests: (hip), (eye), (blood)
• Life span: 10 – 13 years

Form and Function
The Weimaraner is built to hunt with great speed and endurance and combines grace, stamina, raciness and an alert demeanor. It has find aristocratic features, with a kind expression. The gait is smooth and effortless. The short sleek coat is noted for its unique gray color.

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Gordon Setter
Irish Setter
Labrador Retriever
Pointer
Vizsla
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon