Breed of the Week: Weimaraner
Despite what William Wegman might have you believe, the Weimaraner does not have human appendages, wear Victorian clothing, or play the banjo. Sorry to disappoint you, but seriously — he’s a dog.
Still, there’s a lot to love about this regal breed: the haunting beauty that’s given him the nickname “the Grey Ghost;” his superb agility and athleticism; his hunting skills; and his fierce loyalty. Want a closer look at the Weimaraner? Read on.
Photo by David Poe (check out his amazing music here).
The Weimaraner is the aristocrat of working dogs. The breed first originated around the 1600s in Germany; the first Weimaraners were likely cross-bred from the Continental pointer dog and the Mastiff. Though other hunting dogs, such as the Labrador and Golden Retriever, were isolated in kennels when not serving their intended purpose, the Weimaraner always received the royal treatment, comfortably cohabiting with the family rather than being shut out in the cold. This special treatment had its drawbacks, though — even today, the Weimaraner is known to be an exceptionally needy and neurotic breed, and doesn’t take well to being left at a kennel, or to a change of ownership. The Weimaraner is not a dog for commitment-phobes — if you’re in, you’re in all the way.
Photo by Bryan.
True to his hunting roots, the Weimaraner is also an incredibly active dog. You might envision his elegant form lying peacefully beside a lit fireplace, but he’s built for speed and power, not scenery. Weimaraners require at least one or two walks every day, the longer, the better. Consider the fact that these dogs were originally bred for tracking down bears, deer, and other wild game, and you’ll get a sense of their energy and stamina. If you’re a marathon runner, your Weimaraner will be happy to come along — he’ll probably even lead the way. If you want a lap dog, get a Maltese or Bichon Frise — these guys aren’t for the faint of heart or the light of breath.
Photo by weimaraner_Gabi.
Despite his high-maintenance style, the Weimaraner has been a popular family pet in the United States since the 1950s. President Dwight Eisenhower had a Weimaraner of his own called Heidi; in the 1980s, the dog gained a presence in popular music with an appearance in the music video for New Order’s “Blue Monday” and a cover shot on Kate Bush’s album, “Hounds of Love.” More recently, Weimaraners were stars in the films “Best in Show” and the Stallone action flick, “Daylight.” Not to mention, of course, the ubiquitous Wegman shots of Weimaraners in human clothing.
It should be clear by now that it takes a special kind of person to take in a Weimaraner. You have to be committed, loving, and ready to run 5 miles in the rain, if that’s what your dog wants. If you can manage all that, though, your Weimaraner will pay it back in spades. With the right owner, this beautiful dog could be the best, most fervantly loyal friend you’ve ever had.
Photo by weimaraner_Gabi.
If you think you’re ready to take on a Weimaraner, first make sure that you, and everyone you live with, is aware of the new responsibilities you’ll face with this high-maintenance animal. Get ready for long walks or runs each day, and make sure that you’re financially able to take care of any health problems your dog may have — the Weimaraner is prone to bloating and numerous genetic disorders. Once you’re sure you can handle it, check out this site to find the Weimaraner rescue group nearest you.
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