WEIMARANERS - THE GREY GHOST
HISTORY OF THE WEIMARANER
It's nickname is the "Grey Ghost" comes from not only the Weimaraner's color, but also its ability to be quick, using an almost cat-like stealth while in the field, combined with a silent, almost shadow-like way of working.
Weimaraners were first bred by the court of Weimer in Germany during the early 19th century. While the dog’s earliest origins are something of a mystery, the historical record and various theorists have tried to fill in some of the holes. Some believe the Weimaraner is the result of albinism in an old breed of German pointing dog, while others claim to see traces of the Bloodhound in the Weim, and others still believe the Weimaraner is simply an amalgamation of many German hunting breeds. A Van Dyck painting from the early 1600s portrays dogs that bear a distinct resemblance to the Weimaraner, though it is impossible to prove whether they are related.
The Weimaraner is a pointer, and was originally used for hunting, tracking, and bringing down big game. They were popular in German courts for their speed, athleticism, sense of smell, courage and stamina. Because they have webbed feet Weimaraners are fine swimmers, and as big game became scarce in Germany the dog was put to use retrieving downed waterfowl from lakes and streams.
The Weimaraner was introduced to the United States in 1929 by Howard Knight. Up until that time it was extremely difficult to obtain a Weimaraner, as they were only sold to members of the German Weimaraner Club. After becoming a member himself, Knight began breeding the dogs in America, thereby propagating the once elusive breed. The Weimaraner was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1943; since then, the dog’s popularity as a family pet and a contestant in competitive obedience shows has steadily grown. Over the years, the Weimaraner has been used as a rescue dog, service dog for the disabled, and as a police dog in the UK and Germany.
The color of a Weimaraner may range from silver grey to a medium mouse gray. Some Weims have a white spot on their chest. The long coat is actually a double coat... a coarse topcoat that repels water, with a soft undercoat that provides insulation from the cold. Like all long coats, the Longhair Weim coat becomes heavier in cold weather. German sportsman consider the long coat an asset since it provides waterproof protection from the cold and improves ability to perform in the field. Are you ready for a Weimaraner? The Weimaraner is described as "a big, bold dog." "They are smart and their busy minds thrive on activity. They are strong and determined, needing time, space, and attention. If you want the challenges of keeping ahead of this fearless gray ghost of the field and family room, and your daily activities can include your dog, you may be suited to the Weimaraner. He loves kids and is used to being a member of a family." What does all this double talk mean? Here's some of the pro's and con's...
T
he Beautiful Weimaraner
According to the official breed standard, the Weimaraner is "a medium-sized grey dog, with fine aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alertness and balance. Above all, the dog's conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field. The temperament should be friendly, fearless, alert and obedient." 
About a third of the Weimaraners born in Germany today have long hair. The Longhair Weimaraner has a soft, silky coat that can be straight or slightly wavy. It has wavy hair on it's ears and soft feathering, much like the Irish Setter has, on the back of it's legs. It has a long, un-docked, plume-like tail.
Like most other breeds, the Weimaraner is not the perfect pet for everyone. Weimaraners are highly intelligent, fast learners. This is part of what makes them so appealing. They're so expressive. Sometimes they seem to be trying to communicate on a human level, with their exaggerated expressions, yawns, and vocalizations.
Most Weims learn basic commands, housebreaking, and simple tricks like shaking paws quite easily.Sometimes they're too smart.
They quickly learn how to open doors... some are escape artists.
They need abundant attention and lots of interesting Weimaraner-proof toys, chews, bones. etc. A bored Weimaraner WILL find fun things to do. Young Weims with nothing to play with or chew, will try whatever is within reach.Weimaraners are highly skilled hunters. They are superb tracking dogs. Their enhanced sense of smell finds anything.
A Weim will empty a trash can for the jelly bean on the bottom. Some type of fence is needed to keep a Weim from traveling to whatever smells good a block away.Weimaraners are loyal and devoted to the people they love. Weimaraners must be close to those they love...very close... like on your lap, or in your bed... sharing your pillow. Separation anxiety might result in destructive behavior. Crate training is essential. Weimaraners are fun loving and very playful. Young Weimaraners can be mischievous, stubborn and demanding. Firm, consistent training is a must. Weimaraners are canine athletes.
They're great pets for sportsmen, hikers, and outdoor types.Most Weimaraners are high energy dogs.They need lots of exercise. If you don't have a large outdoor area where they can run, be prepared to take them for lots of long walks. Any large, high energy breed is not a good choice for the elderly or for families with small children. Weimaraners are natural watch dogs. They are protective of those they love. Some Weimaraners bark because barking is fun. Some Weimaraners will bark incessantly when left alone. Neighbors tend to frown on that. The sleek, classic Weimaraner coat needs only light maintenance, just an occasional brushing, to stay great looking. The short length and neutral color means little, if any, visible dog hair on your clothes and furniture. Long haired Weims are the only exception here.
So you are still interested?? Take the quiz to see if you could live with a Wei!!
This multi- page interactive Quiz features adorable pictures of Weims doing some of the things they do best.
Click on the "I Think So" bone if think you could handle it.
If you could not possibly live with a dog doing that, click the "No Way!" bone.
