Small Munsterlander

ATTRIBUTES: Intelligent, Devoted, Self-confident

GROUP: Miscellaneous Class

ACIVITY LEVEL: Regular Exercise

BARKING LEVEL: Infrequent

COAT TYPE: Double

COAT LENGTH: Medium

SHADDING: Seasonal

SIZE: Medium

TRAINABILITY: Agreeable

CHARACTERISTIC: Medium Dog Breeds

Breed Overview

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Ancestry

Pointers and Spaniels

Origin Icon
Origin

Munster, Germany

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Registration

2006

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Size

20.5 - 21 Inches

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Weight

40 - 60 Pounds

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Expected Life

12-14 Years

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY +
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
LOVE WITH CHILDREN +
Unwise
Good With Children
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS +
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
+
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
+
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
+
COAT TYPE
+
COAT LENGTH
+
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
+
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
+
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
+
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
+
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
+
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
+
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
+
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Loaf
Needs an Activity
+
COLORS
+
PATTERNS
+
CARING WITH FAMILY
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
A breed's affinity for showing affection to family or individuals it knows may differ substantially. Some breeds come across as reserved with all but their steward, yet there are those who embrace each known person with the warmth usually reserved for a best friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN
Unwise
Good With Children
The capacity of a dog breed to patiently and tolerantly engage with children's actions coupled with its general disposition toward family integration can differ significantly. Regardless of a breed's known compatibility with kids, it's essential to maintain vigilance when dogs are in the presence of youngsters particularly those who haven't spent much time around canines.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
The natural inclination of a canine breed to display friendliness toward fellow canines varies. While it's crucial to monitor dogs when they meet and interact certain breeds naturally possess a greater propensity for amicable relationships with other dogs, whether in the comfort of their own homes or out in communal settings.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur a specific breed is prone to shed can vary widely. High-shedding breeds will demand more regular grooming sessions have a higher chance of activating certain allergies and could necessitate more frequent house cleaning routines like thorough vacuuming and diligent use of lint rollers to manage the loose hair.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
The frequency with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming or other forms of grooming can vary. It's important to reflect on your available time, patience and financial resources for this kind of maintenance when evaluating the grooming demands of a breed. Keep in mind all dogs will need their nails trimmed on a routine basis regardless of the breed.
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
The tendency of a breed to drool may be a significant factor to consider. For those who prefer cleanliness and order, choosing a dog known for slinging slobber across your arms or leaving sizable damp patches on your attire might not be the best match.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Medium
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
The propensity of a breed to be receptive to unfamiliar people varies. Certain breeds exhibit a natural reserve or wariness towards strangers, regardless of the setting, whereas others exude enthusiasm at the prospect of greeting a new person at any opportunity.
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
The level of playfulness a breed maintains through adulthood can vary significantly. While some breeds retain a youthful zest and will eagerly engage in games like tug-of-war or fetch long past their puppy years, others are content to spend their days lounging peacefully on the sofa alongside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
The likelihood of a breed to notify you about the presence of strangers can be distinctive. Some breeds are more sensitive and will respond to any perceived threat, be it the mail carrier approaching the doorstep or a squirrel darting past the window. These same breeds often possess the ability to become more hospitable to newcomers once they perceive that these individuals are welcomed by their human family members.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to change is an important characteristic to consider. This encompasses their ability to adjust to various living conditions, fluctuations in noise levels, weather changes, alterations in daily routines and other day-to-day life variations that may occur.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
The adaptability of a breed to change is an important characteristic to consider. This encompasses their ability to adjust to various living conditions, fluctuations in noise levels, weather changes, alterations in daily routines and other day-to-day life variations that may occur.
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
The level of physical activity and mental engagement required by a breed can range widely. High-energy breeds are often on the move, primed for action and constantly seeking out their next escapade, spending their days actively running, leaping and playing. On the flip side, low-energy breeds tend to embody the "couch potato" lifestyle, quite content to lie back, relax and drift into a cozy slumber.
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
Infrequent
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
The level of mental engagement necessary to keep a breed content and in peak condition varies widely. Dogs bred for specific roles may thrive on tasks that demand critical thinking, logical analysis, focus and additional cognitive skills. If these dogs do not receive proper mental stimulation, they will inevitably find their own means of occupying their intellect, which may not align with an owner's preferences.
COLORS

Description

Registration Code

Brown & White

063

Brown Roan

462

PATTERNS

Description

Registration Code

Patched

045

Ticked

013

Tan Markings

012

About The Breed

The Small Munsterlander excels as a multi-talented hunting partner, boasting a reliable nose for pointing, retrieving both on land and in water and a skill for tracking different kinds of game post-fire. This breeds intelligence and ease of training go hand-in-hand with a temperament that is both amiable and balanced, ensuring stability. Its considerable learning abilities come with a spirited and engaging personality that meshes well with family life exhibiting sociable manners and a strong bond with its owner. Renowned for its intense predatory drive, wide-ranging hunting skills and solid composure in the field, this breed stands out as a top-tier hunter's ally. When hunting season winds down, the Small Munsterlander still shines in agility sports, obedience and various dog trials, demonstrating its pack-oriented nature. At home, it's content to rest at its owner's feet, a true testament to its loyalty. Known as the Kleiner Münsterländer in its German homeland, enthusiasts can connect with the Small Munsterlander Club of North America through President Mark Schnubel at president.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A PORCELAINE

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Small Munsterlander: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

Health

+

Health issues, no matter how minor are a possibility in any breed, but conscientious breeders have made significant inroads in conserving the health of the Small Munsterlander breed both in the US and Europe. While health challenges may be part of some dogs' lives, the larger population remains hearty and healthy. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced dietary plan are pivotal in managing your dog's health. Keep on schedule with essential DHLPP yearly vaccinations, rabies shots, monthly heartworm prevention and, contingent on your area Lyme disease vaccinations. A responsible breeder is a valuable resource for learning about the Small Munsterlander's specific health issues.

Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

Health

Grooming

+
Giving your Small Munsterlander a brush now and then ensures its coat remains in tip-top condition, alongside an infrequent bath to help them stay clean and looking sharp. As they shed more vigorously with the changing of seasons notably in the late spring and early autumn stepping up their grooming routine during these times is a wise move. Keep their nails in check by clipping or grinding them on the regular, this helps dodge any issues with overgrown nails, such as splitting or cracking. And don't forget those ears routine checks are essential to prevent wax build-up and debris, which could lead to infections if overlooked. Plus incorporating teeth brushing into your regular pet care schedule will keep your furry friend’s smile healthy and bright.
Health

Exercise

+
Small Munsterlanders are a treat to have in the family, but they sure do love their exercise and mental challenges. Born hunters at heart, these dogs are at their absolute happiest when they're on a trail or in pursuit. They are the jack-of-all-trades when it comes to hunting duties whether it's flushing out game, pointing, retrieving or tracking, they've got it covered with gusto. Thanks to their hunting lineage, a high-octane lifestyle is in their DNA, so it’s essential to channel their boundless energy into fulfilling activities every single day. If hunting isn't on your agenda make sure you find other ways to give your Small Munsterlander a good workout think runs, fetch sessions or adventure times in a secure, enclosed space. Remember, when these intelligent pooches are outdoors close supervision is a must since they have an inherent urge to follow their noses and hunt down interesting scents. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, they might just take off on their own little unsupervised hunting adventures. Keeping them engaged and active is key to a content and well-behaved Munsterlander at home.
Health

Training

+
Similar to many versatile canines Small Munsterlanders take their time to reach full maturity. Typically, it's not until their second birthday that they fully develop into mental adulthood. So, brace yourself for a phase where you'll see a strong muscular dog with a zest for life much like a high-spirited teenager. It's essential to recognize that these dogs are not only bred to be the hunter's sidekick but also devoted family companions. They thrive on ample interaction and quality time with their human pack to unlock their true potential and they do best when raised as part of the household. Generally speaking, Small Munster landers are fantastic with children. They handle the erratic antics of kids with a good deal of patience. Nevertheless, it's crucial to introduce them to children properly and monitor their play, it's always wise not to leave any dog unsupervised with young children. Incorporating your SmallMunsterlander into your leisure activities creates a golden opportunity to bond. Whether it's an outdoor adventure or a simple game, time spent together is vital. This inclusion not only cements their role in your life but also encourages them to feel fulfilled and content, culminating in a well-rounded and joyous furry friend.
Health

Nutrition

+
It's crucial to select a diet for your Small Munsterlander that supports their specific digestive requirements as they journey through different stages of life. Numerous dog food brands offer sport-specific formulas that are rich in the proteins and fats needed by energetic breeds. Considering the Small Munsterlander's medium stature and potential life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, the diet you choose plays a significant role in their health and longevity. This choice is personal and should be tailored to your dog's needs. Consulting with your vet and breeder will be invaluable in establishing the right feeding schedule for your puppy and determining the most nourishing adult diet to promote their well-being. And of course, always ensure that your Small Munsterlander has constant access to clean fresh water.

Historiography

The origins of the Small Munsterlander can be traced to the midst of the 19th century shrouded in the rural history of Germany. Following transformations in German hunting laws, the expansion of hunting devotees and the methodical management of game populations, the stage was set for the advent of new German Pointing Dogs. By around 1870 reports circulated of long-coated German Spaniels known locally as 'Wachtelhunds,' gaining notoriety in the Munsterland region for their steadfast pointing, remarkable tracking skills and adeptness in retrieval.

In the early 20th century, the famed poet Hermann Lons played a pivotal role in the breed's development. In 1906, he issued a call-to-action in the magazine 'Unser Wachtelhund seeking information on the remnants of the red Hannoverian Heath Hound breed. What he found with assistance from his brothers, were exemplary examples of pointing Wachtelhunds in rural homesteads, which they affectionately termed 'Heidewachtel.'

Noteworthy dog lovers like Baron von Bevervörde-Lohburg and other enthusiasts like Mr. Heitmann, a teacher from Burgsteinfurt were instrumental in nurturing viable breeding stocks in varying locales. This collective effort led to the advent of the 'Dorsten type,' a breeding line that emerged in Westphalia. On March 17, 1912, this culminated in the establishment of the 'Verband fur Kleine Münsterländer Vorstehhunde' (Small Munsterlander Pointer Club), which dedicated itself to the pure and earnest breeding of the long-coated small pointer indigenous to the Munsterland, a task complicated by the absence of clearly defined breed traits at that time.

It was not until 1921, with the guidance of Friedrich Jungklaus that a breed standard was adopted, paving the way forward for the breeders. However, the precise lineage of these dogs remains a mystery.

Engineered to excel in various hunting tasks by instinct, the Small Munsterlander was designed as a versatile hunting companion, capable of pursuing, pointing, retrieving and tracking all manners of game across both dense underbrush and aquatic environments. Beyond their hunting prowess, the breed was equally cherished for its sterling qualities as a family pet.

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