Miniature Pinscher
You may wonder where the miniature Pinscher comes from; let’s see if we
can’t clear that up. Unlike the Miniature Poodle, which is a scaled-down
version of the Standard Poodle, the Min Pin is not a smaller version of
anything, especially the much-larger Doberman pinscher. Both may have
descended from the German Pinscher, a medium-sized black and tan dog
bred to control vermin in the barnyard, but there the relationship ends.
The Doberman includes Rottweiler and perhaps the Black and Tan Terrier;
the Min Pin reportedly came from crosses with breeds as diverse as the
Dachshund and the Italian Greyhound.
Part of the confusion in origin comes from the word "pinscher," which is
a descriptive term like "terrier" or "setter" that denotes the dog's
method of working, not his heritage. In German, "pinscher" means "biter"
and derives from the dog's habit of jumping on and fiercely biting its
quarry. The name may also be borrowed from the English "pincher,"
meaning "one who seizes or pinches." The Min Pin is also not related to
the Manchester terrier in either the standard or toy sizes. Min Pin
hails from Germany.
So what is the Min Pin? It is a dog with an elegant way of going, a
spunky attitude, a sense of humor, an energetic self, and a bouncy
personality that brightens. Bred to keep farm kitchens free of mice and
rats, this little guy can be ferocious when necessary and scrappy on a
whim. The whole picture of the Min Pin is one of refined elegance, both
standing still and moving. The strong but not coarse head, slightly
arched neck, level top line, and sleek, well-muscled body give the
little dog the appearance of strength in a small package.
The high-stepping gait of the Min Pin completes the picture of grace and
style and reminds observers of the flashy gait of hackney horses bred to
pull the carriages of upper class Europeans and southern gentlemen. They
have a naturally flamboyant trot. Min Pin temperament is described in
the breed standard as "fearless animation, complete self-possession, and
spirited presence." In spite of its tiny size and fine bones, the Min
Pin is a hardy, healthy dog with few genetic problems.
Size:
The Miniature Pinscher weighs 6-13
lbs. Miniature Pinschers have a wide muzzle, narrow head, and erect
ears, which may be cropped. They have small, round ‘cat feet’ and an
erect tail which is usually docked. The Miniature Pinscher has a smooth,
graceful gait.
Character:
Miniature Pinschers are alert,
bold, spirited and lively. They are extremely energetic; some consider
them to be the most energetic of all breeds. Miniature Pinschers are
known to act far larger than they really are. They are eternal puppies.
The Miniature Pinscher is fearless and loyal, with strong guard and
protection instincts. In spite of its tiny size and fine bones, the Min
Pin is a hardy, healthy dog with few genetic problems.
Temperament:
The Miniature Pinscher gets along
fine with children, other dogs and strangers, if proper socialization
has taken place.
Activity:
The Miniature Pinscher needs
regular opportunities to exercise as it is extremely energetic. Most of
its needs can be met through indoor play. The Miniature Pinscher is well
suited to apartment life.