Large Münsterländer
The Large Münsterländer, also known as the Großer Münsterländer Vorstehhund, hails from Germany and is a versatile hunting dog breed. It shares its ancestry with the Small Münsterländer, both of which originated in the Münster region of Westphalia during the 19th century. They were bred by crossing long-haired pointing dogs with Setters and Spaniels to create a skilled and efficient hunting companion.
- Origin
- Germany
- Alternate Names
- Großer Münsterländer (German), Large Münsterländer Pointer
- Life Expectancy
- 12-14 years
- Average Male Height
- 23-26 inches
- Average Female Height
- 22-25 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 60-75 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 55-70 pounds
- Coat Length
- Long
- Coat Type
- Dense
- Coat Colors
- White, Black, Blue Roan
- Coat Pattern
- Black Patches or Spots, Ticked
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Large Münsterländer can suffer from black hair follicular dysplasia, color dilution alopecia, hyperuricosuria, osteochondritis dissecans (shoulder), progressive retinal atrophy (rcd4), and urolithiasis (cystine). As a larger breed they are at risk for developing orthopedic problems, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following additional conditions: hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.
Personality and Behavior
The Large Münsterländer is an intelligent, affectionate, and loyal breed. They are known for their strong work ethic and make excellent hunting dogs due to their pointing and retrieving instincts. Additionally, they tend to get along well with children and other pets, making them suitable family companions. However, they are active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues.
Fun Facts
In 1919, the German Longhaired Pointer Club stopped recognizing the black color variation, which lead to the creation of the Large Münsterländer as a new breed.
The Large Münsterländer boasts a beautiful, dense, and silky coat that is water-resistant and weatherproof. The coat is moderately long, with feathering on the legs, tail, and ears.
Famous in Hunting: The breed is highly prized for its exceptional skills in hunting, particularly for birds, and has become popular among hunters worldwide.
Longevity in Work: Large Münsterländers can maintain their hunting abilities well into their senior years, often proving to be accomplished hunters even in old age.
References
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/large-munsterlander
http://www.largemunsterlander.org/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/large-munsterlander
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/LARGE-MUNSTERLANDER-118.html