Originally developed for hunting, Weimaraners are great and versatile dogs, perfect for show, field, obedience, tracking and agility.

It was in the 19th century when this breed was developed and were used by royalty for hunting large game such as boar, bears, deer and foxes. Weimaraners were later used for hunting smaller animals such as fowl, rabbits and foxes when popularity of large game hunting declined.

Size. Female Weimaraners are between 22-25 inches (56-63 cm) and males are between 24-27 inches (61-69 cm). The weight of the females are generally between 50-70 pounds (23-32 kgs) and males are between 55-85 pounds (25-38 kgs).

Appearance. The Weimaraner has short, fine, smooth gray coat that led to its nickname, “gray ghost” or silver ghost. The coat’s color range from mouse-gray to silver-gray. The eyes may be amber, gray or blue-gray. The color of the head and ears are lighter than the rest of the body, with ears moderately long. The head is also long and aristocratic. The tail is docked to 1 1/2 inches (4cm) when the dog is two days old.

In rare cases, there are also long haired variety that is recognized by most kennel clubs in the world except in North America. This variety has silky coat and undocked, feathered tail.

Temperament. Weimaraners are intelligent and fast learners giving them the nickname “dog with a human brain”. This breed is happy, loving and cheerful suitable as household pet but is not as friendly towards strangers just like Labrador and Golden Retrievers. Thorough socialization when young will prevent aggression. Firm and appropriate training and exercise are necessary to help them control their behavior since this breed requires vigorous exercise, games or running.

Health. Weimaraners are prone to bloat (gastric torsion) because of their deep chest. To prevent bloat, it is better to feed them two to three small meals a day instead of one large meal. Rigorous exercise right after meals should as well be avoided. This breed is also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, hypertropic osteodystrophy (too rapid growth) and tumors. Other health issues include cryptorchidism, distichiasis, Von Willebrands Disease, entropion, hypothyroidism, renal dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy.

Grooming. Weimaraner with short and smooth coat is easy to groom. Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush, occasional dry shampoo and a rub of chamois is enough to make the coat shine and keep your Weim in good condition. Keep the nails trimmed and check the mouth after work or exercise.

The Weimaraner, or “grey ghost” as it is commonly nicknamed, is an intelligent, loyal dog originally bred in Germany for hunting large game. The Weimaraner’s majestic beauty, friendliness and loyalty are enough to win over any dog lover, though a Weimaraner does not make the perfect pet for just anyone. The Weimaraner thrives on adequate exercise, intellectual stimulation and being a part of a family in which the dog’s role is clear.

The Weimaraner is an exuberant lover of life who needs an active and equally enthusiastic owner. To say the Weimaraner is boisterous would be an understatement. If you are looking for a lethargic couch dog, steer clear of the Weimaraner. If you are looking for a companion ready to hike miles into the wilderness with you, join you on regular runs, swim with you in the lake and curl up in bed with you at the end of the day, the Weimaraner may be the family member you are seeking.

High energy and stamina along with a strong scenting ability and intelligence make the Weimaraner an excellent hunting dog. Intense loyalty, a protective nature and an eagerness to obey its leader make the Weimaraner the perfect member of the right family-and a member of the family is just what a Weimaraner wants to be. However, a Weimaraner who does not receive adequate exercise, discipline and stimulation will take out its energy through unwanted behavior, and that could mean destruction to belongings and a headache for the entire family.

If you decide to bring a Weimaraner into your home, obedience training and discipline are absolutely critical from the start. While a disciplined, well-exercised Weimaraner will be eager to fulfill your every command and come back for more, an undisciplined one will exhibit unwanted behaviors such as chewing, jumping and being a colossal pest. Such behavior is simply a show of dominance or an outlet for releasing pent up energy, and can be prevented through exercise and proper leadership. The Weimaraner is headstrong and determined, and will naturally assume the role as leader of the household if not taught otherwise. Every member of a household adopting a Weimaraner must be willing to actively participate in creating an environment of structure and discipline in which the dog will thrive.

Before adopting any purebred dog, it is encouraged to educate yourself about the temperament, care and health issues associated with the breed in consideration. If possible, speak with others who have owned or had experience with the breed. Resist the temptation to take home a puppy of a breed with which you are unfamiliar, even if an adorable puppy dog face is luring you in. Dogs of different breeds vary widely in personality, energy level and maintenance. Be sure that you select a dog based on your lifestyle and ability to fulfill the needs of the dog.