Getting to know this breed before taking one home is
essential. A good rule to follow is: if you don't have time to carefully read
all this information, then you most likely don't have time for a Weimaraner!
The Weimaraner Standard describes the breed temperament as
friendly, fearless, alert, and obedient, but this is but the half of its
personality. Assertive, bold, loyal, and headstrong also fit, giving the dog a
loving attitude with a willingness to take the upper paw in the family if the
opportunity presents itself. Housebreaking can be a problem, as can destructive
chewing.
Like most large hunting breeds, the Weimaraner needs lots of
exercise and must be kept in a fenced yard to prevent him from ranging in
search of game. Because he was developed as a hunting dog and still maintains
those instincts, he may be dangerous to birds and small mammals. Unlike many
hunting breeds, however, the Weimaraner is an indoors house dog and does poorly
when confined to a kennel.
This is a breed that needs obedience training to control his
rambunctious nature the moment he enters the family. He must be taught all
members of the family are to be obeyed. Training methods must be gentle and
firm, for harsh treatment will sour his attitude.
Weimaraners are very energetic animals...they are bred to
hunt all day with their master. Changing this behavior changes the essential
Weim. Weims seldom ‘self-exercise’...they want to be with you! If you can not
deal with this behavior and and are unable to provide opportunities for
extensive exercise, you should look at other breeds less rambunctious!
Weims are not soft mouthed like a Golden Retriever or Irish
Setter. They are still a game hunter, and some Weims have a low tolerance for
small fur bearing animals including cats, bunnies, and small dogs. Changing
this behavior again changes the basic temperament of the dog.
If you are away from them too much and they are left to
themselves, Weimaraners are like any other lonely dog! They will bark
incessantly and develop bad habits (chewing, digging, etc.) or try escaping
their surroundings.
Although Weimaraners are hunting dogs, they do not like
living outdoors. They require your attention. They are the true, loyal, hunting
companions in every respect, needing your friendship and presence. Keeping a
Weim outside will not work!
In spite of the folklore and myth surrounding the breed, the
Weimaraner is not a wonder dog. Given the opportunity, he will still steal the
pot roast off the dining room table when no one is looking!
This may seem like a lot of work, but a good owner/dog
relationship could last around fifteen years. (Longer than some marriages!) The
time and effort put into finding a dog that suits your needs and personality,
whether it a Weimaraner or some other breed, will provide a rewarding
experience for both of you over the life of the dog.
If you have read all this and feel that adopting a
Weimaraner is the right choice for you, Click Here for more information about the Tarheel
Weimaraner Rescue Adoption Process.