Weimaraner

"The Gray Ghost"

History

The powerful Weimaraner was bred to be an all-round hunter. At one time used for big game, such as deer or even wolves or predatory cats, the breed is more commonly used for upland bird hunting today. Weims are proficient at tracking and search and rescue. This breed was proclaimed to be a can-do-it-all dog when it came to the Western World. Unfortunately, this was not accompanied by a warning about the “Gray Ghost's” determination and sheer grit. People who are willing to meet this challenge find the Weim to be all it's advertised.

Temperament

The Weimaraner is a well-muscled athlete ready to urge you into action. This breed demands attention and fun, interesting things to do. Although friendly and social, Weims can be focused on their way being the only way, so owners have to be clever enough to convince them otherwise. Weimaraners like to be with their people and are willing to please when treated well. Warn your guests ahead of time because the Weim's size and intent focus can be intimidating to visitors. Some individuals can be aggressive with strangers and other pets if not properly trained. Yard animals and other small household pets may trigger the chase gene in the Weim, who may not be discerning as to what is a game and what is “game.”

Appearance

A sleek, silvery dog with light eyes, the Weim has an aristocratic look that has been memorialized in photographs by contemporary art photographer, William Wegman. But don't be fooled by the model's cool gaze, a Weimeraner may have the demeanor of a scamp. Her eyes tone with the coat, from an amber to a gray or a blue gray. Nostrils are flared, and the head appears chiseled on a well-tuned body. Large ears, though never houndy, cup scents when tracking. In Europe, a longhaired variety, similar in length and feathering to a Brittany's coat, is accepted. The tail is docked in the Americas.

Training

This isn't a dog that can be let loose in the back yard. Too many temptations can easily mean you'll find the dog five miles away, playing tag with children in a school yard or chasing the neighbor's cat. Hikes, field trials, tracking or other activities help keep their minds busy and their bodies fit, but obedience is almost a must for control and a peaceful household. Regular, strenuous walks and runs will make training time pass smoothly. Well-trained Weims make good service dogs.

Grooming & Care

Easy care, but hair might be found stuck in cushions, on navy suits and in a pat of butter. Daily rub-downs with a hound glove will help her feel good and keep the hair where it belongs.

Health Concerns

As with all purebreds, Weims are prone to some inherited health concerns. OFA and CERF clearances should be determined. A deep-chested breed, they may be prone to bloat and torsion, a life-threatening emergency. Heart or bleeding disorders can be problems. Be careful of overfeeding.

Famous Weimaraner

Man Ray, Fay Ray and their offspring and relatives appear in books, films and artwork by William Wegman.