The Small Munsterlander is a medium-sized dog breed from Germany. As a classic hunting dog, he loves the water and is very popular with hunters because of his versatility. In addition, the Small Munsterlander is also an excellent family dog that knows how to impress with an attractive appearance and a friendly and well-balanced nature.
Key facts at a glance:
- FCI: Group 7, Section 1.2, Standard No. 102 (with working test)
- Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
- Origin: Germany
- Size: males 52-56 cm / females 50-54 cm
- Weight: about 17 to 25 kg (no specifications in the breed standard)
- Colours: White or gray with brown markings
- Character: spirited, intelligent, stable, playful, balanced
Origin and history of the Small Munsterlander
The Small Munsterlander is originally descended from long-haired Spaniels. Their job has always been to track down poultry, report the find to the hunter and retrieve the prey after the shot.
At the beginning of the 20th century, pure breeding of the Small Munsterlander began, with the German cynologist and forester Edmund Löns playing an important role in this context. He initially called the breed Heidewachtel. It was only later that the name Kleiner Münsterländer was agreed upon.
Although it is a German dog breed, the Small Munsterlander is now mainly found in Norway, Sweden and France, where it is very popular for hunting in the forest. Due to its attractive appearance, it has also developed into a popular family dog.
Description of the Small Munsterlander
The Small Munsterlander is the smallest German pointer. Males reach a height of 52 to 56 centimetres, while females become slightly smaller with a shoulder height of between 50 and 54 centimetres. With regard to weight, the breed standard for the Small Munsterlander does not specify any specifications. As a rule, however, the animals reach a weight of 17 to 25 kilos.
The Small Munsterlander has a harmonious physique with tight skin and strong muscles. Its medium-length fur is dense, smooth, and slightly wavy. He has a bushy tail and also has slightly longer hair on the legs.
The basic color of the Small Munsterlander is either white or gray and has brown markings of varying degrees. Its large ears are very hairy and hang sideways. His medium-sized eyes are dark brown. The head of the Small Munsterlander is quite flat and only slightly curved. The stop is only moderately pronounced and its straight snout is characterized by a powerful muzzle.
Character of the Small Munsterlander
The Small Munsterlander is a typical hunting dog. He has a spirited nature and proves to be extremely willing to learn and intelligent. On joint hunting trips with its owner, the Small Munsterlander shows strong nerves and shows itself to be an attentive team player.
In addition, he is considered to be outgoing and people-friendly, which also makes him a great family dog. His pronounced play instinct and his open nature are not only well received by children, but also ensure him the sympathy of almost all dog lovers.
Possible areas of application for the Small Munsterlander
The Small Munsterlander is a classic hunting dog that knows how to impress with its versatility and reliability. Because he loves water, he is ideal for hunting ducks, where he can show off his strengths to the fullest.
Apart from that, the well-balanced and open-minded Small Munsterlander is also quite suitable to be kept as a family dog. In this case, however, it is important to keep him busy and, in particular, to satisfy his high urge to move.
Dog sport is practically a must. For example, disciplines such as agility, dummy training, retrieving, water work or dog diving ensure that the Small Munsterlander is physically active and happy.
Small Munsterlander Diseases
Overall, the Small Munsterlander is quite robust and not too susceptible to diseases. Even its relatively long coat proves to be easy to care for and requires little effort. Nonetheless, there are some health issues that the Small Munsterlander is at increased risk of.
The following health problems occur more often than average in Small Munsterlanders:
- The breed suffers from entropion (rolled-in eyelid) quite frequently.
- Inflammatory skin diseases such as dermatitis are not uncommon in the Small Munsterlander.
- Due to the large hairy ears, there is an increased risk of ear infections.
- Occasionally, Small Munsterlanders suffer from hip dysplasia and the associated consequences.
The great namesake of the Small Munsterlander
In addition to the Small Munsterlander, there is also a Large Munsterlander. Despite the name, this is a completely separate breed. Because he comes from a completely different breeding line and also has his own FCI standard.
Just like the Small Munsterlander, the Large Munsterlander is one of the pointing dogs. However, with a shoulder height of up to 65 centimetres, it is quite a bit larger than its smaller relative. Nevertheless, a certain resemblance to the Small Munsterlander is visually recognizable.