Given the similarities in shape and color, it is no surprise that the German Pinscher is often mistaken for a young Doberman Pinscher. Best-known in Europe, these dogs are probably ancestors to the large Doberman and smaller Miniature Pinchers. They were originally bred to protect homes and farms from intruders and rodents.
Despite this function, however, the breed never gained great popularity and faced extinction during World War II. Rescued by devoted owner Herr Werner Jung, German Pinschers were recreated from other Pinscher stock and have regained popularity in recent years. Although quite widespread in Europe, they remain rare in the United States and other countries. The dogs are active, brave and loyal, requiring plenty of exercise and social contact.
IDEAL BREED CHARACTERISTICS
Size: Males and Females 17 to 20 inches (at the withers).
Appearance: Balanced, square, muscular body with energetic motion.
Coat and Color: Short, thick, smooth and shiny coat. Solid color from tan to deep red; black or blue with reddish/tan markings on the face, throat, chest and parts of the legs.
Head: Flat skull with a long, square muzzle; dark, oval, medium-sized eyes; erect, v-shaped and folded or cropped ears.
Tail: Set high, docked between the second and third joints.
