Weimaraner

This popular German breed was originally much more massive and stockier than its present-day incarnation and was used as a large game hunter and property guardian. The early Weimaraner is believed to had been developed from old Schweisshunds and Leithunds, as well as Bloodhounds and the Italian Cane Corso.

The ghost-gray colouring is thought by some to come directly from the Cane Corso. Through selecting the gray specimens and crossing them with English and Spanish pointers and Hungarian Vizslas, the hunters improved the Weimaraner's scenting and retrieving abilities, making it an excellent bird dog. The appearance was also modified and these new, much lighter Weimaraners were no longer used to hunt boars and bears.

Karl August, the Grand Duke of Thueringia's capitol Weimar was a great fancier of the breed and he started a dedicated breeding programme in order to standardize and promote the Weimar Pointer. By the end of the 1800's, the type was fully established and the breed standards were set. During the 20th century the Weimaraner's popularity increased and this is a common show breed, gun dog and family pet today. It responds well to obedience training which is needed to control its stubborn personality and confrontational nature. The Weimaraner also makes a capable watchdog.

The coat comes in two variants, the smooth shorthaired type being more common and popular than the longhaired variety. Ghost-gray is the only colouring accepted, coming in a range of silver shades.

Average height is around 24 inches.