The Weimaraner, or silver ghost as called by some, was bred as a hunting dog and many sportsmen still use them for hunting large game such as deer and bear. The Weimaraner breed comes from Germany. Though they were bred for hunting, they also make great family pets if you have the time and the energy to dedicate to them.
Everything You Need To Know About The Weimaraner:
1. Size Of Dog
This popular breed can vary in size from 23-27 inches in height, depending on the gender of the dog. It will weigh in at anywhere from 55 pounds to 90 pounds. The Weimaraner, also called the silver ghost or the grey ghost, will live for around 10-13 years.
2. Exercise Requirements
Because the Weimaraner is a hunting dog with a high prey-drive, he will require a lot of exercise. It is important to keep both his mind and his body engaged. He will need plenty of time to run and frolic. It is important to walk your Weimaraner regularly, but you also need to ensure he can get out for a good run to stretch out his legs and exhaust pent up energy.
Dogs tend to misbehave when they are bored and don’t get enough exercise and the Weimaraner is no exception. Keep your dog mentally and physically challenged and he will be your best friend for life.
3. Feeding Your Weimaraner
Weimaraners like to eat, so it is important to have an eating schedule in place, so that they do not overindulge. Feed him a good quality food that will fill his belly. A food that is high in protein is a good choice. If you add a little water to his dry food, it will be easier for him to digest.
You can also add some canned food or table scraps to his food as long as you do not add too much. Rich foods are not good for them and may upset their digestive system, so watch the kind of treats you are adding.
4. Treats
Weimaraners are part of the family and like everyone else, will enjoy the occasional treat. If you are feeding human food to your pet, here are some good choices.
- Carrots
- Peanut butter
- Blueberries
- Eggs
- Green beans
- Sweet potatoes (cooked)
- Apples
- Popcorn
- Rice (cooked)
5. Other Health Considerations
Weimaraners are a very active dog breed and they love to run and play. This will make them susceptible to accidental injuries such as cuts, scrapes, sprains, and muscle pulls. After a good run, it is a good idea to give your buddy a once over to make sure he has not suffered any accidental injuries.
The Weimaraner also loves to chew. That means that he may suffer mouth and gum injuries. You will need to ensure your Weimaraner has plenty of chew toys made specifically for dogs, so that they do not swallow anything toxic or anything that is likely to cause choking.
A health issue that causes the greatest distress for this breed is gastric torsion. This occurs if the stomach gets overstretched and twists shut. It is important to be able to recognize the symptoms, so that you can seek immediate care at your veterinarian if this ever occurs.
Health test that are recommended for this breed:
- Hip evaluation
- Thyroid evaluation
- Ophthalmologist evaluation
6. Temperament
A Weimaraner wants nothing more than to be a part of the family. They are excellent with children. They can be easily trained and make an excellent pet with a loving nature as long as you are committed to ensuring their mental and physical health.
He can be hyperactive if he is confined or left alone for too long. He needs an active family who wants to run, bike, and do all sorts of activities. If he becomes bored, he will bark incessantly and he may even try to escape, so he can find his own adventure.
As long as he gets a lot of exercise and is well cared for, he will be ready to learn and do what you ask of him. He will be loyal to his pack.
7. Grooming Needs Of A Weimaraner
The Weimaraner’s coat is short and easy to care for. An occasional brushing to remove dead hair will suffice. The most important aspect of keeping a Weimaraner well-groomed is to ensure his nails do not get too long. Trim his nails regularly to avoid any injuries while he is running and playing.
It is also important to keep his ears clean, so that he will not suffer ear infections.
8. Your Weimaraner With Other Pets
Weimarners tend to be reserved with strangers but show dominance around other dogs. They were bred for hunting, so other small animals could be considered prey.
The Weimaraner will be good with other dogs so long as you take the time to do proper introductions.
9. Training Your Weimaraner
Weimaraners are smart dogs, so don’t let them outsmart you. This breed is quick to learn but that means that he may also pick up bad behaviors if he is not properly trained by someone with the time and patience. Start training a Weimaraner when he is still a puppy and ensure that what you want becomes what he wants. Reward good behavior on his part and he will reward you!
10. Socializing Your Weimaraner
The Weimaraner needs a lot of socialization with people. He loves to be where the action is. He will also behave around other dogs if he is socialized and trained properly. Small pets such as cats and rabbits should be kept away from the Weimaraner. His hunting instinct could cause him to inflict pain and possibly even kill a smaller animal.
In A Nutshell
The Weimaraner is a high-energy dog who needs to be with an active family. He needs plenty of room to run and play as well as opportunities to go out for activities. If you have the time and the energy, a Weimaraner will make a very friendly and loyal addition to your family.
This majestic looking breed was bred for hunting by nobles in the 19th century and they themselves are noble and loyal.
