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Breed Description The Weimaraner is a sporting breed which was developed in Germany as an
all-purpose gundog. Males measure 25-27 inches at the shoulder, females 2 inches less.
Often referred to as the "grey ghost", the Weim has a short, sleek coat, ranging
in colour from silver grey to dark grey. Eye colour is blue-grey to shades of amber. The
Weim combines grace, speed and endurance with an aristocratic appearance. Profile of a Good Weimaraner Owner The Weimaraner is a special breed for special people. 1.You must want your dog to be a member of the family, not just a "pet". 2.You mus t understand and appreciate the love this dog will lavish on you and not feel the dog is too demanding. 3.You must enjoy being active with your dog and relaxing with you dog. 4.You must be prepared to travel with your dog or find a reliable sitter or kennel if you cannot, And remember your dog will be very unhappy if he cannot travel with you. 5.You must make a financial commitment to ensure your dog’s long, healthy life. 6. To develop the Weim’s potential as your most enjoyable companion, you must devote time for serious and consistent training. Weimaraners are easily trained but YOU MUST DO THE TRAINING. This is the ideal breed for people who truly want a "Best Friend", not just a casual acquaintance. Character and Temperament The Weimaraner is very intelligent and sensitive and craves companionship. He is happiest as a member of the family. The Weim is probably the most devoted and loyal breed there is. This devotion makes him willing to please, easy to train, dependable and protective by nature. This devotion also makes it hard for a Weim to thrive as a kennel dog or adapt well to a routine of being left alone. The Weim is a rugged, out-going breed, capable as a hunting companion and exceptional as an obedience competitor. With proper training and socialization, he is completely adaptable and happy to share your lifestyle. Exercise Requirements Being a hardy Sporting Breed, the Weimaraner does require exercise. Several walks per day can be sufficient. Weims do, however, love hunting and retrieving and excel in dog sports such as flyball and agility. And you might too! Training Problems Because of the Weim’s inherent sensitive and devoted nature, early upbringing and conditioning are of utmost importance. Weimaraners tend to suffer from "Separation Anxiety", causing excessive barking, destructive chewing, etc. when left alone. The Weim must be conditioned, at an early age, to being left alone for short periods of time DAILY. Crate training makes this easier to accomplish. Then you are leaving the pup safe, with suitable toys and a cozy bed. Since the Weim is a boisterous and dominant breed, a progressive program of socialization, Puppy Kindergarten and Obedience Training is highly recommended .Health Problems There are many varied health problems in purebred dogs today. There are several tests available to help ensure that breeding stock is clear from such afflictions as hip dysplasia, eye defects, blood disorders and heart problems. Some lines of Weimaraners are also prone to skin problems and eyelash abnormalities . Reputable breeders do not breed affected stock. The WAC has a CODE OF ETHICS which should be followed in a breeding program.Choosing a Breeder When deciding on a breeder from which to buy, remember that you want someone you will feel comfortable with, and who will offer you advice and encouragement throughout your dog’s life. Answers to the following questions will help you decide. 1. Does the breeder display an obvious love of Weimaraners? 2. Does the breeder want to keep in contact with you after the purchase has been completed? 3. Do other breeders recommend this person? 4. Is the breeder a member of the Weimaraner Association of Canada? 5. Can the breeder provide references of previous puppy purchasers? 6. If, for any reason, you can no longer keep your Weim, is the breeder willing to help you find a new home for the dog? 7. Are you satisfied with the guarantee covering hereditary defects the breeder offers? To what extent will the breeder contribute to veterinary expenses if a problem arises? Suggested Reading There are many good books that would be helpful to a new Weim owner, but we have limited the list to one good breed book and three commonsense training books. Buy the books before you buy the puppy. You’ll have more time to read them and a greater chance of starting out on the right foot. THE WEIMARANER by Anna K. Nicholas As well as these books, a membership in the Weimaraner Association of Canada will put you in touch with other Weimaraner owners. The newsletter will tell you of events and activities taking place. For membership information contact Wendy Mckay (membership director), 4883 Torbolton Ridge Rd, Woodlawn, ON K0A 3M0 - membership at weimaranercanada.org
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W.A.C.
club at weimaranercanada.org