Pound Dog Rescue

Life Expectancy: 14 years

Size: 10-12in

Noise: Very Talkative

Common Health Problems: Slipping patella

Breed Recognized By: AKC, CKC, FCI, KC

Alternate Names: Min-Pin

The Miniature Pinscher is often mistaken for a miniature version of a Doberman Pinscher. In fact, the Miniature Pinscher is a totally separate breed that probably resulted from a cross between a Dachshund and an Italian Greyhound and was originally bred as a ratter that lived in the bard alone like a feral cat. Although mostly used as a companion animal today, the Miniature Pinscher still retains the independent nature of a solitary working dog.

The Miniature Pinscher is a very independent dog that doesn’t need human companionship the way most other breeds do. Miniature Pinschers are friendly to their owners, but they prefer to initiate contact and can become aggressive if over-handled, especially by strangers of kids. This quality makes Miniature Pinschers unsuitable for life with small children or other animals, although they can adapt to those situations is raised in them as a puppy.

Miniature Pinchers are the ultimate low maintenance dog and need virtually no grooming attention.

Miniature Pinchers are lively little dogs that act like puppies well into their adult years. Although they will get a lot of exercise running around the house, Miniature Pinchers still require at least 30 minutes of vigorous activity (preferably outdoors) to stay healthy and happy.

Miniature Pinschers are notoriously stubborn and independent. Miniature Pinschers find little reward in pleasing their humans, so positive reinforcement is best when training them. Miniature Pinschers can be difficult to house train and can develop psychological problems if spoiled by their owners. A firm, reward-based training style is best suited to Miniature Pinschers.