Back to all breeds
Characteristics, History, and Health
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a large breed dog that is well-known for its distinctive short and sleek coat, traditionally in a shade of gray. It has an aristocratic bearing, a distinctive, intelligent gaze, and a muscular physique that hints at its endurance and power. The breed originated in Germany in the early 19th century. The Weimaraner was developed at the court of the Grand Duke Karl August of Weimar, from whom it gets its name. These dogs were specifically bred to be the perfect hunting companion, capable of handling big game like deer and bear, though they also proved adept at hunting smaller animals such as birds and rabbits. By the late 19th century, the breed was well-established and recognized throughout Germany. The Weimaraner made its way to the United States in the early 20th century, with the first Weimaraner arriving in the United States in the 1920s. The breed's popularity surged post-World War II, and it remains popular today as both a hunting companion and a family pet.
Main Info
- Origin
- Germany
- Alternate Names
- Weim, Gray Ghost
- Life Expectancy
- 10-13 years
- Average Male Height
- 25-27 inches
- Average Female Height
- 23-25 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 70-90 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 55-75 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Smooth
- Coat Colors
- Blue, Gray, Silver Gray
- Coat Pattern
- None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Weimaraners can suffer from degenerative myelopathy and progressive rod-cone degeneration. Some other common health problems in this breed include hip dysplasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), and certain genetic disorders such as Von Willebrand's Disease and distichiasis. They may also be susceptible to hypomyelination and tremors, hyperuricosuria, and spinal dysraphism.
Personality and Behavior
Weimaraners are known for their energy, intelligence, and strong desire to work. They are excellent hunting dogs, and they also excel in various dog sports. Weimaraners are very loyal and love spending time with their families. They can be a bit reserved with strangers, but they are generally good with children and other dogs.
It's important to note that Weimaraners need plenty of exercise to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive. They also benefit from having a consistent routine and positive reinforcement training methods.
Fun Facts
During the Cold War, Weimaraners were used by the US Air Force for scent-detection work.
Weimaraners have webbed feet, which makes them excellent swimmers.
Famous photographer William Wegman has used his own Weimaraners as subjects in his work, making the breed a favorite among the art community.
A Weimaraner owned by President Dwight D. Eisenhower lived in the White House with the first family.
References
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/panel/weimaraner-health-panel
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/panel/weimaraner-health-panel
https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds/weimaraner
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/weimaraner/
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/WEIMARANER-99.html
https://www.ukcdogs.com/Weimaraner
Screen for health risks and diseases Learn More
Recommended by top vets with decades of experience
21 breeds
64 genetic health markers
50 genetic trait markers
