History

The German Pinscher has existed for centuries but was not subjected to managed breeding programs in Germany until the 1800s, where it was one of the foundation breeds in the development of the Doberman Pinscher and the Miniature Pinscher. Despite its name and appearance, the German Pinscher is actually closely related to the Standard Schnauzer, both of which descend from the now-extinct Rat Pinscher. The German Pinscher was selectively bred to seek out and kill rats and other rodents, working independently of its owners. It also was bred to be bold, protective and territorial. The German Pinscher came close to extinction after World War II. In 1949, only one German Pinscher litter was whelped in all of West Germany, and no litters were born in that country for the next nine years. The breed was saved through the dedicated breeding program of Herr Werner Jung, beginning in 1958. The German Pinscher is still considered a rare breed, kept today more as a companion than a working ratter. Its size and disposition make it an ideal urban pet and family guardian, although it has never achieved the popularity of its direct descendants, the Miniature Pinscher and the Doberman Pinscher.

Health

The average life expectancy of the German Pinscher is between 12 and 14 years. This is a hardy, healthy breed with few breed health concerns, which may include cataracts, hip dysplasia and von Willebrand disease.