The Weimaraner Breed, History, and Standard
The Weimaraner (WY-mah-rah-ner)
Their nickname—The Gray Ghost—comes in part from their color and, more importantly, from their hunting style, which has been described as stealthy and catlike. The Weimaraner is not a beginners dog. It is a breed that needs plenty of attention, exercise, and training. As high-energy as they are, Weimaraners definitely have an "off" switch. This may have something to do with their history as a gentleman’s gun dog. They were designed to hunt all day long and come and live inside with their people in the evenings, relaxing by the fire. Weimaraners are deeply devoted to their people, and they can get depressed and act out if they are ignored.
History
This sleek silver-gray breed originated in early 19th century, developed to hunt bear, boar, and other large game in the dense forests of Germany's Weimar region. The Bloodhound is believed to be among its ancestors, if not in direct line of descent, then certainly in a collateral way. The dogs were originally bred for their qualities of intelligence, companionship and beauty, and especially for their all round ability to hunt, point, track, and retrieve in all sorts of cover whatever the terrain. It was only in 1937 that the first Weimaraners were exported to the USA.
The Breed Standard (abbreviated)
General Appearance: A medium-sized gray dog, with fine aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alertness and balance. Above all, the dog’s conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field.
Height at the Withers: dogs, 25 to 27 inches; bitches, 23 to 25 inches. One inch over or under the specified height of each sex is allowable but should be penalized.
Coat and Color: Short, smooth and sleek, solid color, in shades of mouse-gray to silver-gray, usually blending to lighter shades on the head and ears. A small white marking on the chest is permitted, but should be penalized on any other portion of the body. White spots resulting from injury should not be penalized. A distinctly long coat is a disqualification. A distinctly blue or black coat is a disqualification.
Feet: Firm and compact, webbed, toes well arched, pads closed and thick, nails short and gray or amber in color. Dewclaws--Should be removed.
Tail: Docked. At maturity it should measure approximately 6 inches with a tendency to be light rather than heavy and should be carried in a manner expressing confidence and sound temperament. A non-docked tail shall be penalized.
Temperament: Should be friendly, fearless, alert and obedient.
