BREED INFORMATION

History and Characteristics of the Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher is not a scaled-down, smaller version of anything, especially the much larger Doberman. Both the Doberman and Miniature Pinscher may have partly descended from the German Pinscher, but there the relationship ends. The Miniature Pinscher originated in Germany several centuries ago as an efficient barnyard ratter. They were known as the “Reh Pinscher" due to their resemblance to a small red deer which roamed the German forests years ago. For the sake of those who still argue that the Miniature Pinscher was bred down from the Doberman Pinscher, it was not until 1890 that Louis Dobermann bred his first Doberman Pinscher. Mr. Dobermann stated that he wished to breed “...a giant terrier that would look much like the five pound Reh Pinscher (our Miniature Pinscher) but that would be fifteen times heavier and larger.”

The Miniature Pinscher is pictured in old paintings and sculptures that unmistakably place him as a very old breed, but because it was less than 200 years ago that factual documentation began, his actual origins cannot be stated in fact. In 1836 Dr. H. G. Reinchenbach, a German writer, stated that the breed was a cross of the Dachshund and Italian Greyhound. Many historians and those who have researched the background of the breed agree that the ancestors of the Min Pin most likely include a combination of the smaller German smooth-haired Pinschers, the Italian Greyhound and the Smooth Dachshund.

The Min Pin is part of the larger German Pinscher family, which contained both large and small varieties as well as two distinct coat types. The German pinscher family also includes the Affenpinscher and the Schnauzers.

The Miniature Pinscher is structurally a well-balanced, sturdy, compact, short-coupled, smooth-coated, naturally well-groomed toy dog and is proud, vigorous and playful even in old age. He is easy to train, alert, fearless and very possessive of his loved ones, which make him a great watch dog. Min Pins believe and act like they are much larger!

The Min Pin has undergone many changes for the better over the years, but his innate character is unchanged. He’s an ideal playmate and companion for young and old alike – all that one would want in a house dog - really a big dog in a small beautiful package, admired and respected wherever he goes. Mom likes him because of his easy to care for satiny short coat and his naturally clean personal habits. The kids like him because he’s naturally inquisitive and wants to be where the action is, and Dad likes him because he’s a robust and naturally healthy dog easy to keep in condition.

A well-bred, properly socialized Miniature Pinscher is simply a “character”. Spending only a few minutes with one makes it obvious that they really earn the title “King of Toys”. The Min Pin is fearless, animated, intensely curious and full of vim and vigor; dynamite in a small package. Because of their high energy levels and inquisitiveness, the Min Pin bears close watching. They investigate everything and will go to great lengths to do so — which includes being “escape artists”. Because of this natural tendency to investigate, it’s essential to take protective measures in certain areas. Do not leave small objects such as paper clips, coins, lipstick, pens, etc laying on table tops where the Min Pin can get to them. Be careful never to leave any medication out and be sure to retrieve any pill or capsule dropped on the floor. Otherwise you may find yourself in the veterinarian’s emergency room with your Min Pin who found it first. You must go over every inch of any yard or outdoor space your Min Pin will have access to. If you find any hole or opening big enough to put your hand through -- your Min Pin will find a way to fit through it. Fix it immediately! Also, make sure that doors or windows in your home which open onto an area other than your secured yard have an extra screen, beyond what you normally have. Nothing is sadder than losing a Min Pin because he or she slipped out under your legs while you were signing for a package.

If Min Pins are raised around children who treat them gently and are taught responsible dog ownership, they will adore children. However, if children grab at them, hit them or treat them roughly, Min Pins will run from them. It is important to realize that even as an adult, the Miniature Pinscher is a very small dog. Extremely rough play and handling can result in broken bones and worse. Always let the Min Pin approach the child, not the other way around. Younger children must not be left alone with any dog. Patience, love and good old common sense make a great recipe for raising a Miniature Pinscher with children — or adults.

Because the Miniature Pinscher has a short, single coat, grooming is minimal. A good, brisk brushing every few days will ensure a clean, shiny coat. Toenails need to be trimmed every few weeks. It is a good idea to get the Min Pin used to regular tooth brushing. Frequent bathing is discouraged as it tends to dry out the coat. It is better to take a warm, damp washcloth, using plain water, and wipe the dog down if necessary.

With a knowledgeable and persistent trainer, the Miniature Pinscher can excel in obedience. Depending on their mood on any particular day, they can also leave onlookers and even their owner in stitches with their antics. As typical of the Min Pin personality, the more a crowd laughs, the more they will dis-perform! However, they definitely have their serious moments in the obedience ring and many have earned the highest obedience ratings and titles possible.