Weimaraner (Short/smooth coat)

Weimaraners would suit an active rural owner who enjoys a lot of exercise and will spend time training and socialising their dog to bring out the best in them.

As with many breeds, the Weimeraner dog breed can suffer from hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems) and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. As with many large breeds they are also more prone to some bone conditions, heart disease and a specific stomach condition (gastric dilation volvulus).

Weimaraner is an energetic, highly active dog that needs plenty of dog exercise to keep him healthy and happy. Without it, he can become destructive, boisterous, or an escape artist!

Many enjoy swimming, and love to retrieve and both these activities keep their active minds occupied. An adult Weimaraner needs two-plus hours of regular daily exercise along with ongoing training.

This is a large dog who needs a good-sized, well-fenced garden and a country location to ensure he gets all the exercise he needs.

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. Weimaraners are prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

The short-haired Weimaraner dog is one of the easiest breeds to keep clean with very little grooming required. Even when he has been through the muddiest of fields, the dirt seems to fall off him very easily, leaving you with nothing to do but 'polish' up his coat! The more unusual longer-haired variety, with a coat of 2.5-5cm in length and feathering does, however, require more attention. They should be brushed and combed regularly. A check should be made on their ears routinely to ensure they are free from infections.

The Weimaraner can be a challenge to train as he is often stubborn and strong willed, and he needs an experienced owner to get the best out of him. Once convinced to work, the Weimaraner loves to be challenged by training – and for many, agility is an ideal answer. Early and ongoing socialisation is important with this breed.

The Weimeraner is a friendly dog but often too bouncy and active to live with young children. In a family with older, quitter children, he can make a great family dog.

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.