German smooth-haired pinscher gave rise to two very popular European breeds of dogs. One of them is the Doberman, who not only liked aristocrats, but also lovers of fighting dogs. The other is, rather, a small copy of the latter, which for its miniature appearance was called the zwergpinscher ("zwerg" in German translation - "dwarfish"). If you are not averse to making a new friend, then the description of the breed zwergpinscher will have to come in handy.
History of origin
The first mention of the breed is found in the XV century. According to the cynologists, her homeland is the city of Württemberg. This place was famous for its huge number of horse farms, where high-class horses were raised. Among the owners of the stagecoachs, the breed of dogs Zwergpinscher was especially popular. Thanks to her skills as a hunter, she received the nickname "Storm Storm". The extraordinary strength, dexterity, endurance and speed of reaction helped the representatives of this breed to easily deal with hundreds of rats that simply swarmed in stables and stables. However, the cynologists seriously engaged in this representative of the canine only in the second half of the XIX century, and only in 1878 at the exhibition in Hanover, the world was presented with an amazing breed of dogs - zwergpinscher.
Dimensions
Description of the breed zwergpinscher always begins with its size. The weight of the animal varies from 4 to 6 kg, and the height is about 25-30 cm, but some representatives reach 40-45 cm at the withers, but they are already called averages. People have the erroneous opinion that all small dogs are considered dwarf pinschers. However, this is not so, in fact, only a few representatives can be attributed to this breed. The dog zwergpinscher looks rather muscular and at the same time graceful. In fact, it is a small copy of its German ancestor with Doberman features.
Body structure
According to the international classification, these dogs are considered to be dog-like, a group of schnauzers and pinschers. They are famous for their very proportional body. Description of the species zwergpinscher:
- Head slightly elongated. Muzzle fully proportional to the skull.
- The eyes have a regular oval shape, usually black or dark-brown.
- The nose of the nose is almost always black.
- Ears are set high.
- Equally well developed as the upper and lower jaw, in view of this feature, the chewing muscles are strongly visible , the "scissors" bite.
- The neck is rather long, thin and elegant.
- Body elongated and very tight, pronounced muscle relief.
- The coat of the dog should be short and shiny, quite close to the body.
- The limbs are thin, but very strong. Hind legs are slightly shorter than the forelegs.
- The tail is rather high, without breaks. Has a crescent or saber-like shape.
Cupping
It is not uncommon for exhibition dogs to undergo unpleasant surgical procedures to correct their appearance. Cupping of the ears in the zwergpinscher is a procedure that is performed in puppyhood, but preferably up to 3-4 months, until the teeth have changed. More often they are given the form of standing candles. But if the owner wishes to leave the ears hanging, their rounded edges are cut to a similarity with the letter "V". With the tail it is worth to do the same, however, the cupping is performed in the first week of life, leaving 2 or 3 vertebrae. Since this is not a fighting dog, it is not possible to cut off ears or not - the personal choice of the owner. For the exhibition is suitable as a docked, and a conventional zwergpinscher. The responses of the owners of the breed show that the dog can easily tolerate the operation, the main thing is not to forget to do a massage and to process wounds in time.
Color
The traditional color of the zwergpinscher is brown, which varies depending on the saturation and admixture of shades (usually, from brick red to mustard yellow). This color is acceptable for exhibition dogs. However, there is often a sand and even a black and tan zwergpinscher. The owners' feedback shows that the darker color of the coat gives the dog a courageous and aggressive look.
Content in the apartment
Many pet lovers often doubt whether it is possible to keep a dog at home like a zwergpinscher. Feedback from happy owners is a weighty factor in resolving this issue. Short hair of the dog does not require complex care, and the moulting process is almost invisible. If you need a dog, which for activity will have enough space in a small apartment, then the ideal option - zwergpinscher. There are a lot of rumors about the breed concerning its exposure to colds and other diseases. All because future owners should be considered: this dog does not tolerate a strong cold, so keep it on the street in an enclosure or a box is unacceptable.
Character
Despite the fact that this dog is a born hunter, she is very friendly and devoted to the person. If you immediately firmly and confidently designate yourself as its master, then the dog will obey unquestioningly. With it, in any case, you can not give slack, otherwise it will certainly take the lead. This is a very energetic and active breed. It is believed that she even has a sense of humor, because she simply adores fooling and making people laugh. Description of the breed zvergpinscher always begins with the fact that this is an excellent watchman. This instinct begins to appear at the age of 3-4 months. And even if you are confused by the petite size of a dog, be sure: she will make every effort to prevent strangers from entering the house. It should be noted that out of the dwarf pinscher will get an excellent companion and companion, since outdoor games are one of his favorite activities. He is very hardy and is capable of prolonged physical exertion. The dog will be a good partner on a morning run or even a bike trip. Children can take a dog with them to play in the park in a ball or frisbee, go roller-skating. The main thing is to remember that raising a dog requires not only a firm hand, but also sincere kindness. Only by combining these two factors, you will get a true devoted friend who will be ready to follow his master even to the end of the world!
Thinness training
It is believed that the zwergpinscher is a fairly freedom-loving dog, but difficulties with training usually do not arise. Irreproachable leadership qualities can become a problem only if the owner is too soft or unable to clearly formulate his requirements. It is better to start teaching from an early age. If you immediately show the dog who is in charge here, you will never have problems with disobedience. The capriciousness of the zwergpinscher is often expressed in unauthorized or unjustified barking attacks, however a slight increase in voice can return it to its previous state. In general, from this dog, you can rarely hear any sounds, these dogs are used exhaustively, only in extreme cases. This breed is not too susceptible to pain and is almost without glory. But it is better not to abuse the method of the whip in training.
Basic rules of care
Zvergpinscher is an ideal option for a city apartment. This breed does not require complex permanent care. Its wool is very short and therefore absolutely does not need daily combing. Wash the dog at least 4 times a year. Very frequent contact with water and detergents can lead to skin peeling and hair loss. So even if your dog is dirty (which is extremely rare, since the zwergpinscher does not tolerate dirt), it is better to simply wipe it with a slightly damp cloth. Particular attention should be paid to the ears, they must be regularly cleaned and monitored so as not to have suppuration or inflammatory processes. So that they always stand upright and do not sag, do not forget to do regular massage of the lobules. Also remember that the dog is very sensitive to the temperature drop, it can not be walked in frost and damp weather. For these cases, special outdoor clothing for zwergpinschers is sold. If you have a parquet floor or an expensive floor covering, you can contact the veterinarian and trim the dog's nails. In this breed they are very sharp and tough, this quality she inherited from the progenitors-hunters. Particular attention should be paid to the ration of zwergpinscher, since these dogs are very prone to obesity. Therefore, do not overfeed your pet and make sure that he receives a sufficient amount of daily exercise, especially in the winter. There are practically no restrictions on food, this breed, like many others, can not be much sweet, as this leads to ear illnesses.
disadvantages
This breed is quite jealous and overbearing, so the dog will rarely compete with other pets. But if she manages to seize the leadership and concentrate on herself the main part of the owner's attention, there will be no problems. On the other hand, these dogs are prone to herd residence, and if you suddenly hold several representatives of this breed, they will have their own hierarchy and team spirit. If you have your own plot or garden, be prepared for the fact that several burrows or holes may appear on your favorite beds. In some zwergpins, the instinct of hunters is still very much preserved, and they are constantly looking for shelters of mice or moles. Do not look at the small growth of a dog, in a house it can easily jump on a table or even a window sill. Therefore, in those days when you are away from home, try to limit the dog in visiting the kitchen, where she can harm herself or spoil the appliances and utensils.
Like any breed, zwergpinscher loves to gnaw. So in order to avoid conflicts with the pet, take your shoes, securities and wires away. But all these difficulties are nothing compared to the charge of positive energy that this dog will give you! Good care, proper training, gradualness and perseverance will help to turn even the most inveterate hooligan into a dog worthy of a proud title - zwergpinscher. Description of the breed will help to choose a good puppy, which in the future will become a member of your family. But in order to avoid problems with the pedigree, it is better to buy a dog in specialized nurseries or from professional breeders.