The coloring of the Weimaraner has earned him the nickname “gray ghost;” however, there is nothing ethereal about this canine.

History

The Weimaraner emerged in the early 19^th century as an all around hunting dog for German nobles (specifically the court of Weimer, which sponsored the breed). Believed to be a descendent of the Bloodhound, the Weimaraner hunts with fearlessness and endurance. Originally, he tracked the large game of the German countryside - deer, wolves, bear - but he has adapted well as a bird dog and small animal hunter.

Early on the breeding of the Weimaraner was strictly regulated. Only member of the German Weimaraner Club were permitted to own or breed the dogs, and membership was highly exclusive. Moreover, the breed was almost unheard of outside of his home country. It was an American by the name of Howard Knight who brought the breed to the States. Knight obtained membership in the Weimaraner Club in 1928, yet at first the protective club only sent to him two sterilized specimens of the breed. Persistent in his efforts, Knight eventually obtained three intact females and a male puppy from which he could begin a breeding program.

The Weimaraner was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1943, after having made a name for himself in obedience trials. The breed exploded in popularity during the 1940s and 50s. Unfortunately the result was poor breeding leading to ill-tempered dogs. Luckily, breed enthusiasts were able to resuscitate the original high standards of the Weimaraner Club, and today these dogs have participated in more competitions in the United States than in their home country.

Temperament

The Weimaraner is a hunting dog. He is a tireless companion in the field and capable with any prey. Bred to go all day long, he requires lots of activity and exercise. As a family companion he is friendly and obedient; however, he can also be headstrong, stubborn and domineering. Discontent with being confined to a kennel he does not fare well in outdoor accommodations. Also, his strong hunting instincts may lead him to wander from home, chew on household items, and endanger small mammals such as cats. Another concern is that he may be overly rambunctious for small children.

Size

A medium to large dog the Weimaraner ranges from 25-27 inches tall at the withers for males and 23-25 inches tall for females. Both sexes can weigh up to 90 pounds.

Maintenance

The AKC breed standard calls for a docked tail. This is usually carried out by either the breeder or a veterinarian while the dog is just days old. Tails are docked to prevent damage while working in the field. Once the tail has been docked it should require no additional attention.

In regards to grooming, the distinctive gray coat of the Weimaraner is short and easily maintained. It requires only occasional brushing. As for health, the Weimaraner is susceptible to gastric torsion (a fatal twisting of the stomach), Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (an orthopedic disease of rapidly growing dogs), Hip Displasia, and Dermoid or Corneal Demoid Cyst ( a cyst on the cornea).

The Gray Ghost is a wonderful companion for highly active owners who can dedicate themselves to providing him with adequate exercise and training. Fun-loving and loyal he makes a good family pet, but it is best not to pair him with small pets or young children.