Wow! Where do I start in giving Miniature Pinscher information?Perhaps this quote from the Miniature Pinscher Club of America says it best. The Miniature Pinscher is "dynamite in a small package".
Characteristics
This is truly a playful dog, even into its old age. The Min Pin is without a doubt the most energetic breed of dog I have ever owned. Spunky is another good word to describe a Min Pin. It has a great sense of humor and will leave you constantly laughing over it playful ways. It's spirited personality is a joy but can also cause problems for unsuspecting first time owners. And beware, this dog needs lots of toys, or it will happily make a toy out of whatever you have lying around.But Miniature Pinschers are also extremely curious and like to explore. They are escape artists. Know that if there's a small hole in your fence, a Min Pin will find its way through. Always keep your Min Pin on a leash, (I learned the hard way).
Intelligence
The Miniature Pinscher is intelligent, wants to learn, and I was amazed how at how quickly mine learned with proper training. But training is important, or the dog will become somewhat tyrannical.Companionship
A Min Pin is an ideal apartment dog and a wonderful companion. They are loyal, loving and affectionate, outgoing and friendly. But Miniature Pinschers are courageous and wary of strangers. Mine likes to sit by the front window and bark at whoever or whatever may pass. Yes the breed likes to bark, but again, with proper training it is easily controllable. A Min Pin is often described at "a big dog in a little dog's body".There are so many more words that have been used to describe the Min Pin. Any page with Miniature Pinscher information would be incomplete without them. Here's a partial list of those I've come across. Be prepared to scroll down, the list is long.
- Hardy
- Demanding
- Headstrong
- Proud
- Alert
- Brave
- Bright Personality
- A Character
- Animated
- Bouncy Personality
- Vibrant
- Perky
- Cheerful
- Jester
- Jokester
- Fireball
- Feisty
- Fun to Watch
- Whirling Dervish
- Hyper
- Very Possessive
- Stubborn
- Persistent
- Unique
- Agile
- Willful
- Demanding of Constant Attention
Wow! That's quite a list. But my dogs have, at one time or another, been all of those things. And that's why I can't ever imagine not having them around!
It's also why the Min Pin is not for everyone. They are definitely a handful. Check out the link to other dog breeds if you feel this one is not for you.
The Min Pin is typically only 10-12 inches and 8-10 pounds. They will generally have a life expectancy of more than 15 years so owning one is a long term commitment.
It is a well balanced dog. Sturdy, compact, with a smooth coat and an unusual and entertaining high stepping gait.