Weimaraner

A German breed valued for its courage, speed and intelligence, the Weimaraner is also known for its distinctive gray coat.

Temperament

Weimaraners are highly alert, trainable and obedient dogs with a loving nature that makes them a perfect fit for family life, as well as sporting activities.

They love kids, and like kids, they need lots of consistent exercise. For both their physical and mental health, “working off steam” is a must. If you enjoy running, you’ll find the Weimaraner an eager partner!

Characteristics

Known as “the Gray Ghost,” the Weimaraner is a Sporting breed. They are natural athletes, with lean, sleek bodies built for speed and endurance.

Lifespan

10 to 13  years

Colors

The Weimaraner’s short, easy-care coat is always a solid shade of gray, possibly with a small white spot on the chest. Their faces, with amber or blue-gray eyes, show intelligence.

Shedding

The Weimaraner is a seasonally shedding breed, with a short, easy-care coat that requires only weekly brushing to remove dead hair.

Health

Because Weimaraners are active dogs who love to chew, there is always the possibility of injury, or of a Weimaraner ingesting something he shouldn’t.

As a deep-chested breed, they can also be at greater risk for gastric torsion. Their long ears should be cleaned regularly to reduce the possibility of infection.

Best Dog Food for Weimaraner Dogs & Puppies

Weimaraners are healthy eaters. Like other sporting breeds, they may benefit from a performance dog food. For Weimaraners who need help with weight management, consider a healthy weight formula.

Weimaraner puppies should eat puppy food for their first year of life to aid in their growth and development.

History

A graceful and aristocratic German breed, the Weimaraner was developed in the early 1800s by Germany’s Grand Duke Karl August, who held court in the town of Weimar.

An enthusiastic sportsman, the duke dreamed of producing the perfect hunting dog. It is reported that he crossed Bloodhounds with German and French hunting dogs to create the Weimar Pointer, or Weimaraner breed.

Originally used to hunt wolves, deer and bears, the breed adapted to become a bird dog and hunting companion as large game became less prevalent in Europe.

By the late 1920s the breed that was once exclusive to German aristocracy was brought to America, where it gained great popularity in the 1950s as a hunting dog and family pet.

The Weimaraner breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1943.

Facts

• Weimaraner puppies are born with stripes, which fade completely after a few days.
• Weimaraner puppies are born with blue eyes, which change to light amber, gray or blue-gray as they grow up.
• President Dwight D. Eisenhower had a Weimaraner named Heidi, who lived in the White House with the First Family.
• Movie star Grace Kelly received a Weimaraner in 1956 as a wedding gift before marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco.
• Artist William Wegman made his pet Weimaraners the stars of his artwork, making the breed famous as well.