Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Dog Breeds: Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pincher
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The miniature pinscher (also called “Min Pin” and “Zwergpinscher” in Germany) is known as the “King of the Toys” and is often mistaken for a smaller version of the Doberman Pinscher because they are similar in appearance. This toy breed originated in Germany and originally was a mix of Dachshunds and Italian Greyhounds. 

Min Pins were introduced to the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1919 and were referred to only as “Pinscher.” In 1929, the Miniature Pinscher Club of America was created and the Min Pin was officially included in the Toy Breed category of AKC that same year. In 1972, the AKC officially changed the name of the breed to “Miniature Pinscher.”

Characteristics
Miniature Pinschers are compact, sturdy, and small. According to the standard, a Min Pin’s legs should be straight. The head must be proportional to the body with a flat skull and tapering forward as it reaches the muzzle. The muzzle should be strong and proportional to the head. The teeth should meet in a scissor bite. The topline should be slightly sloping to the back part of the body. The eyes are oval and dark.

The average size is 10-12 inches in height but ideally 11-11 ½ inches when measured from the highest point of the shoulder blades. The ideal weight is 8-10 pounds. The coat of the Min Pin is short and smooth, and the AKC recognized colors include chocolate, black, fawn stag red, and solid red.

The life expectancy of a Miniature Pinscher with proper care and maintenance is 15 years.

Temperament
Min Pins are known to be outgoing, assertive, alert, and full of vigor. Since they are naturally energetic, they have to be fenced in the yard because they might run after people in the street whom they are not familiar with. They excel as agility dogs and watch dogs. They are best for older children since younger kids have a tendency to play rough. They are loyal, protective, and can be very affectionate.

Care and Maintenance
Miniature Pinschers can easily get cold because of their small size and short hair which does not offer much protection against chilly weather. During cold months, they must be brought in and kept warm. You can provide them dog sweaters or give them thick blankets in their bedding. They will need daily exercise and stimuli to keep them fit and healthy. It will also help prevent them from developing destructive behavior due to boredom or excess energy.

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