Weimaraner
The Weimaraner, known as the 'Grey Ghost', is an elegant German hunting dog with a sleek silver coat and amber or blue-grey eyes. Energetic, intelligent and very devoted to its family, it needs an active owner who can keep up with its pace.
Features
Height at the withers
Male: 59-70 cm
Female: 57-65 cm
Weight
Male: 30-40 kg
Female: 25-35 kg
Life expectancy
10-13 years
Coat
Short, dense and smooth coat with a metallic sheen. There is a rare long-haired variety. Minimal grooming required.
Color
Mouse grey, silver grey, blue grey
Diet
The Weimaraner is an athletic and active dog that needs a high-quality, protein-rich diet to maintain its muscle mass. 2 daily meals are recommended to reduce the risk of bloat. Avoid exercising the dog one hour before and after meals.
Care and diseases
The Weimaraner's short coat requires very little grooming: weekly brushing is enough to keep it shiny. Monthly bath or when needed. Clean the ears weekly to prevent infections. Trim nails monthly. Brush teeth several times a week.
Origins
The Weimaraner was developed in the Grand Duchy of Weimar, Germany, in the 19th century, possibly from crosses between scent hounds and the German pointer. Initially bred to hunt large game (wolves, deer, bears), it was adapted as a bird dog and retriever. In the 20th century it became popular as a show and family dog.
Characteristics and aptitudes
The Weimaraner is energetic, intelligent and very sociable with its family, which it follows everywhere (nicknamed the 'shadow dog'). It can develop separation anxiety if left alone. It may be reserved with strangers. It gets along well with active children. Very intelligent, it learns quickly but also gets bored easily. It requires constant mental and physical stimulation.
Care
The Weimaraner needs intense exercise: at least 2 hours of vigorous activity daily. Ideal for active people, runners or hiking enthusiasts. Without enough exercise it can become destructive. It needs plenty of space and a fenced garden. Not suitable for small apartments or people with a sedentary lifestyle.
Most common diseases
Health and common diseases of the Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is generally a healthy breed, but with predispositions that owners should know:
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus): a veterinary emergency that can be fatal. Feed 2 meals and avoid intense exercise before and after eating.
- Hip dysplasia: request hip certification from breeders. Monitor weight and exercise in puppies.
- Hypothyroidism: annual thyroid check-up recommended. Lifelong hormone treatment if confirmed.
- Idiopathic epilepsy: can appear between 6 months and 5 years of age. Anti-epileptic treatment available.
- Entropion: may require surgical correction.
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