The Miniature Pinscher: The Hackney of the Dog World

The Miniature Pinscher Dog Breed in Brief:

Origin: Germany

Height: 10-12.5 inches at the shoulder

Weight: 8-10 pounds

Exercise Needs: Low

Grooming Needs: Low

Life Expectancy: 15+ years

Good With Kids: No

Trainability: Medium

Often referred to as the hackney of the canine world, the Miniature Pinscher (or Min Pin as he is often called), is a very high-stepping, high-spirited dog. Small of size, but large in spirit, many people are surprised to learn that the Min Pin is not a shrunken Doberman Pinscher, as his name might imply, but something entirely different instead.

The History of the Miniature Pinscher

While most people automatically believe the Miniature Pinscher to be a Doberman Pinscher, that has been reduced in size, it is actually believed that the Min Pin and Doberman Pinschers are more likely brothers of a sort. Making his first appearance in Germany, it’s believed that the Miniature Pinscher like the Doberman, is actually a descendant of the German Standard Pinscher. Of course, like many breeds, his true ancestry is forever shrouded by the sands of time.

The first written documentation of the Dwarf or Zwerg Pinscher appeared less than 200 years ago, though it is suspected that the breed is far older than that. Equally confusing is that the dog was known by so many different names; even the German Kennel Club had their own name for the Miniature Pinscher, referring to him as the “reh” Pinscher, after a small red deer that was commonly found in the German forests of the time. This was changed, however, most likely because not all members of the breed were the red color of this little stag.

One thing that is known, however, was that the Min Pin was originally bred as a ratter for countryside farms and that, surprisingly, this unique little dog bears no relationship to the Doberman Pinscher or to the Manchester Terriers, as one might expect. Instead it is suspected that the Min Pin boasts dogs such as the Dachshund, Italian Greyhound, and even the German Pinscher amongst his ancestors. That he bears such a strong resemblance to the Doberman is merely coincidence.

The Miniature Pinscher has been gaining popularity in the United States, ever since he was introduced to the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1925. Since then, a love of these adorable and feisty little individuals has continued to grow. While he was once considered a terrier, and classified within their group, the Miniature Pinscher has been regrouped as a toy variety since 1930.

The Miniature Pinscher Appearance

Perhaps two of the best words that could be used to describe the Miniature Pinscher would be “petite” and “sleek.” Not just tiny, but possessing delicate-appearing legs with tiny catlike feet, a teacup muzzle and a bright and intelligent appearance, it’s no wonder that this adorable little individual has his own fan club. Add to this, the Min Pin’s hackney-like high-stepping action and this little guy is more than capable of strutting his stuff with the big boys.

Despite his somewhat delicate appearance, the Miniature Pinscher still possesses a feel of compact sturdiness. Males are square in build, with their length of back being equal to their height of 10-12.5 inches. Females may be slightly longer but, overall, they should have a very squared off appearance. The neck of the Min Pin should bear a slight arch and noble bearing, gracefully curving into a short, straight topline.

The Miniature Pinscher can be exhibited with either cropped or uncropped ears, though his tail should be docked within proportion of the dog’s body. Min Pins can be found in the following color patterns: solid red, stag red (red with a dusting of black hairs intermingled), black with rust (rust markings should be found on the cheeks, lips, lower jaw, throat, chest, lower half of forelegs, inside of back legs, lower hocks and feet, vent area, and twin spots above each eye), and the chocolate with rust (marked like the black).

The Miniature Pinscher Temperament

The Miniature Pinscher was bred as a ratting dog, designed to be constantly on the go, protecting farm and family from the spread of vermin. Because of this, he tends to be a bit of a busy-body and is less inclined to laze about on his master or mistress’ lap, as he is to be checking out things in the corner and scattering the dust bunnies from beneath the bed. While a very independent little dog, some individuals may be prone to Canine Separation Anxiety, so it’s important to take steps to prevent this at a young age. Crate training is highly recommended.

Despite his proud bearing and a strong tendency to attempt to take on dogs much larger than himself, the Min Pin can be very timid around more boisterous individuals, particularly children. This timid personality can make the Min Pin prone to barking or, if he feels threatened, nipping.

The Miniature Pinscher Exercise Needs

The Min Pin is a busy-body but, fortunately, his small size keeps him from running his owners ragged. Provided that the Miniature Pinscher gets out for a couple of walks per day and that his owner isn’t adverse to a little game of tug-o-war, wrestle, or fetch in the back yard, this feisty little individual is usually quite content. If he can worry the household cat, that’s even better!

Miniature Pinscher Grooming Requirements

Grooming the Miniature Pinscher is very simple and easy to maintain. Their coats are very short and glossy, when healthy, and are easily kept this way by a brushing once a week or, at least, every other week. While he may not look like he needs this occasional brushing, doing so will help him to remove any excess hairs, ensuring that he sheds less, removing dander from his skin, and helping to spread the natural oils in his skin through his coat. This will keep your Min Pin gleaming and beautiful.

Bathing should be performed as necessary but, as a rule, once a month is generally a pretty good rule. Also be sure to keep a watch on commonly overlooked grooming requirements, such as your Min Pin’s toenails, his ears, and his teeth.

Training Your Miniature Pinscher

The Min Pin is a very intelligent dog but is easily distracted, his attention always darting off here and there. Additionally, he can also be somewhat high-strung, meaning that he does not react well to negative stimuli or punishments; the best way to teach any dog, but especially the Miniature Pinscher, is with positive reinforcement and a great deal of patience.

Miniature Pinscher Health Concerns

The Miniature Pinscher is a surprisingly robust and healthy breed of toy dog and is prone to very few genetic diseases. However, like all purebred dogs, they are subject to a couple of problems. Some of the health problems that can affect the Miniature Pinscher include:

• Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
• Leg Perthes Disease (LPD)
• Patella luxation
• Medial luxation
• Color Mutant Alopecia

Is the Miniature Pinscher the Right Breed For You?

The Miniature Pinscher is an adorable little individual, quick to worm his way into any heart. Just because he looks cute doesn’t mean that he’s the ideal dog for you. The Min Pin, for a small dog, is quite active and isn’t always the contented lap dog that seniors might desire for a pet. Additionally, the Min Pin tends to be rather shy with children. His ideal home is with a single person, where he is content to be the head of the household. Obedience training is very important at a young age or, surprisingly yes, he will quickly take over your home.

If you don’t mind an active little busybody who is constantly on the go, the Min Pin may be your ideal type of dog. Once you’ve held a Min Pin, chances are your life will forever be changed and you’ll fall instantly in love.

Shawna L. Krautheim

2007