Weimaraners are a medium-sized German breed with silvery grey fur, bright eyes, and an athletic build. Often called “Weims” or “Silver Ghosts,” these dogs are well-known for their intelligence, loyalty, and high energy levels.
Weimaraners are originally from the province of Weimar in Germany. Developed in the 19th century, they were originally used for hunting large game such as wolves and deer. In the 20th century, Weims began to be bred as family companions.
A full grown Weimaraner stands about 24-27 inches tall at the withers and weighs in around 55-85 pounds. Males usually weigh more than females. Weimaraners tend to have a slender, athletic body and a long, sloping back, but they can vary quite a bit in terms of build.
Weimaraners are known for having a lot of energy and they need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. A brisk walk or jog every day is a must and they can also benefit from activities like agility, tracking, and hunting.
Weimaraners have a strong natural instinct to protect their family and property and are generally quite wary of strangers. They should be socialized from a young age to help ensure that they are accepting of unfamiliar people and animals.
Weimaraners have short, silvery fur that sheds moderately year round. Their coats need to be brushed twice a week to remove dead fur and distribute natural oils. They should also be bathed as needed with a gentle, vet-recommended shampoo.
Weimaraners are highly intelligent and fairly easy to train, but they can be stubborn and have a bit of a wild streak. They need a calm and consistent leader who is firm but not overly harsh.
Weimaraners are known as velcro dogs because they will follow their owners everywhere they go. They crave companionship and will become very unhappy if left alone for long periods of time.
Weimaraners are ideal for active families who can provide them with plenty of exercise and companionship. They can sometimes be a bit too much for first-time dog owners, but experienced owners will usually find them to be loyal and loving family members.
