GENERAL APPEARANCE
Shoulder height: 57-70cm (22½”-27½”).
Colour: Silver grey. A dark eel stripe on the back or a white chest spot is permissable.
Coat: Short haired variety - sleek, close and short.
Long coated variety - 3-5cm (1½”-2”). Soft.
Gait: Co-ordinated with strong fore reach and hind drive.
These powerful but elegant dogs are sometimes known as ‘Grey Ghosts’. Like the Pointer, the Weimaraner’s skull has a prominent occiput. The muzzle is slightly longer than the skull. A moderate stop separates the oblique set amber eyes. The high set long ears must fold slightly inwards. The arched neck flows into the slightly long back and a tail carried out or slightly up in movement. Legs should be strong and well muscled ending with firm compact feet.
CHARACTERISTICS AND CARE
The evolvement of this breed came about through the need to produce a top class hunter who was fearless, friendly, protective and obedient. Having a mind of their own, firm but kind training is essential for Weimaraners as they do not respond to harsh training. Once properly educated, they make loyal and intelligent companions for their families. Weimaraners are happiest when kept busy and are not well suited to a small home or an owner who does not have the time to give them regular exercise. Coat care in the Smooth variety is minimal and periodic brushing for the Long variety.
HISTORY
Taking their name from Weimar in Germany, this breed is the oldest German pointing breed. Hunters in this area bred dogs that were able to tackle both large and small game. They are believed to have evolved from crosses between German Short and Wire Haired Pointers and the old German Schweisshunde (a type of Bloodhound). Long haired pups have always been evident in small numbers. The aim was to improve this breed’s pointing, retrieving and trailing abilities in all kinds of weather, and to this end, Weimaraners as we know them today, were perfected.