Weimaraner
Energetic, loyal, intelligent, friendly, fearless, obedient, German hunting dog
The Weimaraner is a sleek, athletic German hunting dog known for its silver-gray coat and endless drive to move. They are smart, affectionate, and very people-focused, often happiest when they can stay close to their family. With the right daily exercise and training, a Weimaraner can be a loyal companion and a fun, energetic partner for active homes.
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Know your Weimaraner
Breed Group: Sporting
Size: Large
Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 55-90 pounds
Coat Type: Short, smooth, and fine. It is easy to maintain, but it does not provide much insulation in cold weather.
Coat Colors: Silver-gray to gray and blue-gray tones. The famous “Gray Ghost” look comes from this unique coat color.
Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, alert, and active. Weimaraners form strong bonds with their people and can be sensitive when left alone too long. They love having a job, a routine, and plenty of attention.
Energy Level: Very High. Weimaraners need extensive daily physical and mental activity to stay calm and well-behaved. Without enough exercise, they can become anxious, noisy, or destructive.
Good with Children: Yes (best with supervision and training because they are large and enthusiastic)
Good with Other Pets: No (strong prey drive; early socialization and careful management are important)
Trainability: High. They learn quickly and respond well to structured training, positive reinforcement, and clear boundaries. Consistency matters because they are clever and can test limits.
Barking Tendency: Moderate. They may bark when bored, anxious, or alerting to unfamiliar sounds and activity.
Lifespan: 11-13 years
Health Issues: Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), hip dysplasia, entropion, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are possible concerns. Ask your vet about bloat prevention strategies for deep-chested breeds.
Exercise Requirements: Very High. Daily running, long walks, hiking, tracking games, and training sessions help burn energy and keep the mind busy. Many Weimaraners do best with a mix of physical exercise and “brain work” every day.
Hypoallergenic: No
History: The Weimaraner was developed in early 19th-century Germany as a versatile hunting dog for noble families. Originally used for large game, it later became valued for bird work due to its endurance and strong scenting ability. Its distinctive coat and graceful movement earned it the nickname “Gray Ghost.”
