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Breed: Min Pin Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

| Published on August 28, 2017

Avg Size of male: Height: 10-12.5 Weight: 8-10
Minor concerns: Legg – Perthes, patellar luxation
Suggested tests: Knee, (eye)
Major concerns: None
Occasionally seen: PRA
Life span: 12 – 14 years
Avg Size of Female: Height: 10-12.5 Weight: 8-10

Brief History on Miniature Pinscher Origin

When it comes the the Doberman and the Min Pin, the Miniature Pinscher is actually the older breed. Stories suggest that the Min Pin resulted from crosses between the German Pinscher, the Dachshund and the Italian Greyhound. Feistiness, fearlessness and speed are some of the traits from those breeds that were passed along to the Min Pin. By the 19th century, it was often referred to as the Reh Pinscher. In the late 1800s, breeders became so focused on reducing the dog’s size that they produced deformed and unattractive animals. By 1900, it was changed again. Healthy and graceful, the Miniature Pinscher became a popular German show dog. The AKC recognized the Min Pin in 1929.

Miniature Pinscher Breed Appearance

The Miniature Pinscher is a compact, small dog with a sleek appearance. The ears are sometimes cropped; the tail is normally always docked. The proud, self-assured gait is a distinguishing feature of the breed. Its short coat closely covers its body with straight, firm and glossy hairs. The coloring for the Min Pin is usually solid red, red with black hairs, black and tan, or chocolate.

Miniature Pinscher Breed Temperament

This small dog has a tremendous vitality. Perpetually active, it is also alert, intelligent and loyal. Distant with strangers, the Miniature Pinscher is often quite aggressive with other dogs, behaving more in accordance with its courageous spirit than its tiny stature. The Miniature Pinscher is good with well-behaved children and plays nicely with other pets if appropriately socialized. This dog can be headstrong and requires firm training. Otherwise, your little seemingly harmless pup may become a tyrant.

Miniature Pinscher Breed Maintenance

The Min Pin requires little maintenance. Brush occasionally to remove loose or dead hairs, or wipe down the coat with a warm, damp cloth. The Mini Pin is considered to be an average shedder. It needs a great deal of mental stimulation and physical exercise in order to be well-mannered and content. Several indoor play sessions daily will suffice, so a fenced yard is not really necessary. Be mindful that the Miniature Pinscher does not bear cold well and should not be kept as an outdoor dog. Its tendency to chew small, bite-sized objects creates a choking hazard, so care must be taken about its surroundings similar to that of a small child.

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