The Miniature Pinscher is an ancient breed, although not in the form that we know today. Opinions differ about the origin of the Miniature Pinscher. He just might be the "neatest" of the toydogs. He makes an admirable, clean pet for any size home.

Most authorities agree the Miniature Pinscher is the German development of the toy terrier and has been known in Germany and other European countries for hundreds of years. There are old pictures showing the Miniature Pinscher as a ratter and it is said that he still retains his keenness as a watchdog and in his vocation of being a ratter. He looks like the Doberman, but he is not related.

The Miniature Pinscher has done well in the show ring where judges appreciate his stylish, high-stepping action and his alert demeanor.

The Miniature Pinschers are very keen and enthusiastic; however, they are not the expert hunters that the English toy terriers are. They are typical terrier type watchdogs and make very good guards defending property with the aggression of much larger dogs.

Miniature Pinschers have a bold outlook on life and their attitude in the show ring is very much the same as that of the Pomeranians. They are not fearless and do react quickly to strange or loud noises. They will whip round with remarkable celerity if some strident dog yaps behind them or someone suddenly drops something. They are classy little dogs, sharp and keen in their outlook as well as in their appearance.

As pets, the Miniature Pinscher is self-possessed, very intelligent and quick to respond. They do not have the sentimental attachment to people as some of the other toy breeds. They do enjoy sharing a house with human beings.

In appearance the Miniature Pinscher has a smooth, hard and short, straight and lustrous coat closely adhering to and uniformly covering the body. The adult Miniature Pinscher stands around 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 8 to 10 pounds.

The Miniature Pinscher's grooming requirements are minimal. He needs only to be brushed several times a week. This should keep his coat and skin in good condition. Because of his short coat he will need protection from cold. You should dress him in outer garments such as sweaters and coats in cold weather.

For the show ring the coarse feelers are usually trimmed from the muzzle, above the eyes and face moles. Long hair found on the sides of the neck, up the backs of front and hind legs should be trimmed or thinned to give the desire sleek appearance for the show ring.

You will need to pay particular attention to the feet of your Miniature Pinscher. The nails should be shortened regularly to help achieve a tight, compact foot. Nothing looks worse than a Miniature Pinscher whose nails have been neglected. If you do neglect to keep his nails trimmed, your Miniature Pinscher will look to have thin feet with ugly outspread toes. This is a very avoidable blemish accomplished through particular attention to his feet and keeping the nails short.

As with any breed of dog the Miniature Pinscher does have some common health problems to look out for which include:

? Entropion;
? Progressive retinal degeneration;
? Cataracts;
? Legg-Calve Perthes Disease;
? Cervical disc disease;
? Diabetes mellitus;
? He may also be prone to epilepsy, loose kneecaps and deafness.

The Miniature Pinscher makes a good family pet for the young and/or the old. He is very intelligent and will need plenty of mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors when left alone.

Average Lifespan of a Miniature Pinscher: 15 years or more