Dog breeds: the Miniature Pinscher characteristics

The Miniature Pinscher dog looks more like a miniature Doberman. The Min Pin is an old breed, created to hunt vermin in homes and stables in Germany.

The Miniature Pinscher dog looks more like a miniature Doberman.  In fact, many people believe that this dog was obtained by progressively breeding Dobermans to a smaller size.  However, the Min Pin is an older breed, created to hunt vermin in homes and stables in Germany.

Origins

Even though the Miniature Pinscher dog seems to be a very old breed, the truth is that it is only several hundred years old.  Back in Germany, it used to be called Reh Pinscher due to its similarity with the reh, a small deer that used to inhabit German forests.

In 1895, German breeder formed the Pinscher Klub and the development of the Miniature Pinscher dog took off.  It grew in popularity from 1905 to WWI.  The AKC recognized this breed officially in 1925.

Physical characteristics

The Min Pin is a smooth-coated, sturdy, and compact dog.  Legs are straight with no bending in or out.  The coat is short and smooth and has no undercoat.  Both males and females stand at 10 to 12.5 inches and weigh 8 to 11 pounds.

Personality

The Miniature Pinscher dog is called the “King of Toys”.  He has a very confident personality with a high spirit. He is alert and always ready for action.  His limitless amount of energy can be exasperating to owners.  Due to his alertness, he makes a great watchdog.

This dog is like a toddler that needs constant supervision.  He needs constant supervision or he will get in trouble.  While you are picking up your paper on the porch, he is digging a hole on the fence to escape.

Caring for a Miniature Pinscher

When you bring a Min Pin home, you will need to baby proof your home.  Keep any small objects out of his reach or you will risk not seeing them again.  This includes pills he finds on the floor or in the safely-closed cabinet he managed to open.

If you want to keep him inside a yard within a fence, check for any hole; if your hand fits through, your Miniature Pinscher dog will somehow manage to go through it too.

Training

Crate training is fundamental for this dog since you can never leave him alone inside the house.  He really thinks he is a king, so you must show yourself with strong leadership and let him know who really is in charge.  You might want to get yourself some help from an expert that is familiar with the breed, even if you are an experienced dog owner.  This fearless and proud dog will prove a challenge to train.

Fun facts

  • Despite his small size, he is very valued as a watchdog.
  • Besides Germany, the Min Pin has been extensively bred in Scandinavia.

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