The Miniature Pinscher, the “King of the Toy Breeds”, also known as the Min Pin, is a breed of small dog in the toy category. In its native Germany, the dog is known as the Zwergpinscher. Pinscher, refers to a classification of dogs bred as guardians or to hunt vermin. Min Pins were first bred to hunt vermin, especially rats. Zwerg, in German, means dwarf or dwarf; Pinscher, in German, means Terrier. Although the Miniature Pinscher is considered a toy breed due to its small size, its temperament is more like the terrier.
Although the Miniature Pinscher looks like a smaller version of the Doberman Pinscher, it is not a “Miniature Doberman”. The origins of Min Pins are much older than the Doberman. The Miniature Pinscher appeared in paintings and sculptures several centuries ago. The Miniature Pinscher was introduced to the AKC show ring in 1919. At the time, unaware that it was officially known in Germany as the Zwergpinscher, the AKC referred to the breed simply as the Pinscher. In 1929, the breed was officially introduced to the AKC. Not knowing that it was a true Terrier breed, he decided to officially place it in the toy breed classification. For conformation purposes, the AKC’s description “must appear as a Miniature Doberman Pinscher” led to the misunderstanding that is still known today that this breed is a “Miniature Doberman Pinscher” when in fact it is not even related. The Miniature Pinscher and the Doberman Pinscher do not share a common ancestor. In 1836, Dr. Reichenbach, after years of study of the breed, determined that the Miniature Pinscher was derived from the crossing of a smooth-haired dachshund with an Italian greyhound. The goal was to ratter faster. This breed was used primarily on farms where fields were left open for a faster dog to chase rats and mice. The Min Pin was also used to hunt vermin in stables and farm kitchens.
Typically, the Min Pin measures between 10 and 12.5 inches at the shoulders and weighs between 10 and 12 1/2 inches. The coat is short and smooth, with red, deer red, black or chocolate colors with tan spots. The Min Pins also come in a blue and beige coat. Blue coats can register with the AKC but cannot compete in the show. The Miniature Pinscher should have a docked tail and cropped ears, although the AKC no longer requires ears to be cropped for shows. The AKC standard specifies a high, reaching, free and easy step in which the front leg is moved forward and in front of the body and the foot is bent at the wrist. The dog drives smoothly and strongly from behind. The head and tail are held high.
The Miniature Pinscher is a very energetic breed that requires a lot of exercise. These dogs enjoy agility training and attending competitions gives them a chance to shine. They are also prone to overeating and must monitor their diet to prevent them from becoming overweight. Due to its instinct to hunt vermin, special care must be taken to prevent a Min Pin from attacking small objects, such as coins or small toys such as Legos, as they could pose a choking hazard. The Min Pin are single-coated, with no undercoat, making them primarily an indoor breed. Care must be taken in colder climates as the coat provides virtually no insulation from the cold. Min Pins do not tolerate cold or wet weather well. The Min Pin live in a two-year state well into old age, which makes them very entertaining, but can also be very frustrating. Your puppy must attend obedience classes and you must be careful to follow every command. In most cases, they can be very difficult to house and require a lot of patience. Being an independent breed by nature, they prefer to initiate contact and generally do not do well if handled too much. This is where much of the misconception that breed is a biter comes from. Making them not always the best breed for young children. Although the Min Pin is not necessarily bad for children, care must be taken in educating the child on proper handling and play. Although they are sturdy, they can easily be injured if they play with a child. They are quite fearless and can be overprotective. This breed does not see itself as a small dog but rather as a large dog and can therefore easily get into trouble. The Min Pin has a very strong protective attitude and guard instinct. They can be single-person owners or largely suit families. The Min Pin is very loyal and will alert its owner to any changes in the home environment. Miniature pinschers are not for everyone, as they are highly curious, strong-willed, and playful. Their owners must have a great sense of humor and a lot of patience. Considering that this breed is in fact a working breed, mistreatment could result in the dog becoming something of a tyrant. The Min Pin by nature can be stubborn, so anything that induces it will generally result in a more difficult dog to handle.
Grooming is easy, as the soft, short-haired coat requires little attention. They should be brushed with a stiff bristle brush. Loose hair can be removed with a warm, damp cloth. Min Pin is an average shedder. They have problems with overgrown nails. Be sure to check your Min Pin’s nails frequently.
The Miniature Pinscher has a refined elegance, a majestic appearance, a style, a grace, a powerful courage and a mischievous character that has earned the title of “King of the toy breeds”. If the Miniature Pinscher suits your taste, you may find it difficult to stop at just one.
