Further Information
This page covers information gained through experience of dog ownership, the breed and its specific needs and research into the subjects covered.
This page covers information gained through experience of dog ownership, the breed and its specific needs and research into the subjects covered.
Exercise
The importance of training and especially with the introduction of a new puppy to establish both a bond and boundaries is vital however, exercise is also an important element to the health and wellbeing of any dog. The amount of exercise needed varies on the dogs age and health, you should commit to a minimum of between thirty minutes and two hours a day. For puppies and young dogs there are different guidelines to follow, a ratio of five minutes per month of age (twice a day) until the puppy is fully grown i.e 15 minutes (twice a day) when 3 months old and 20 minutes when 4 months old , etc. (fully grown for a German Pinscher is at approximately 18/24 months). Excessive or over exercising a young puppy is not beneficial to their muscle or bone development.
In any extremes of temperature or weather we minimise exercise especially in excessive heat or snow and ice. German Pinschers also do not care to get wet in the rain as a general rule! We have dog attire for all of these occasions including cool/wet coats and mats, rain and winter jackets and heated mats.
For general exercise and walking we encourage the use of a harness rather than connecting a lead to a collar around the neck, we use different harnesses depending on the weather and activity. We are happy to advise on the collars, leads, harnesses, coats and equipment we use and would recommend for your German Pinscher.
The importance of training and especially with the introduction of a new puppy to establish both a bond and boundaries is vital however, exercise is also an important element to the health and wellbeing of any dog. The amount of exercise needed varies on the dogs age and health, you should commit to a minimum of between thirty minutes and two hours a day. For puppies and young dogs there are different guidelines to follow, a ratio of five minutes per month of age (twice a day) until the puppy is fully grown i.e 15 minutes (twice a day) when 3 months old and 20 minutes when 4 months old , etc. (fully grown for a German Pinscher is at approximately 18/24 months). Excessive or over exercising a young puppy is not beneficial to their muscle or bone development.
In any extremes of temperature or weather we minimise exercise especially in excessive heat or snow and ice. German Pinschers also do not care to get wet in the rain as a general rule! We have dog attire for all of these occasions including cool/wet coats and mats, rain and winter jackets and heated mats.
For general exercise and walking we encourage the use of a harness rather than connecting a lead to a collar around the neck, we use different harnesses depending on the weather and activity. We are happy to advise on the collars, leads, harnesses, coats and equipment we use and would recommend for your German Pinscher.
Diet
We are advocates of natural Raw Feeding, the internet is a great source of information regarding a raw diet for dogs. Through personal experience and dog ownership over multiple years we have first hand knowledge of the many benefits this can bring to your loyal companion! On balance a raw diet is an inexpensive option compared to dry/wet produced food and the improvements in overall health including coat, condition and energy are proof enough for us. As a guide an adult dog will need approximately 2 - 3% of its ideal body weight per day (i.e. a 20 kg dog will require 400g). The daily quantity can vary depending on energy level, activities and age. Puppies will require significantly more during their important growth and developement (5-8% daily). |
A complete and convenient product is Nutriment which is stocked by some retailers or can be ordered and delivered direct to your home. They have an extensive range of meat, poultry and fish protein sources for anyone wishing to embark on a raw feeding diet. Nutriment have a very helpful and knowledgeable customer service team. The product is delivered frozen in 500 g or 1.3 kg tubs or chubs, they also stock a range of natural treats.
For the more adventurous and/or experienced raw feeder purchasing product in bulk is very cost effective (you will need space for a minimum of 50 kg the equivalent of a medium chest freezer) we use They Love It and Durham Animal Feeds. We incorporate a combination of three protein sources over a two week period to ensure variety is maintained within the diet (ie. Chicken, Lamb and Fish). The products arrive frozen in blocks (varying from 454g to 2.2kg) and are balanced in that they contain the 80/10/10 ratio (80% protein, 10% bone, 10% offal) however we add cooked vegetables, Dorwest Keepers Mix, Salmon oil and eggs once a week as a treat! In addition, we highly recommend Riaflex Canine Joint Plus HA as a joint suppliment.
We travel often and take our dogs with us wherever we go, frozen minced raw food is not always suitable for these trips and so on these occassions we use Platinum. This is a great alternative to raw and we are able to swop to and from the dry and wet versions of Platinum with all our dogs. We also highly recommend this product for anyone not wishing to take the raw feeding option.
For the more adventurous and/or experienced raw feeder purchasing product in bulk is very cost effective (you will need space for a minimum of 50 kg the equivalent of a medium chest freezer) we use They Love It and Durham Animal Feeds. We incorporate a combination of three protein sources over a two week period to ensure variety is maintained within the diet (ie. Chicken, Lamb and Fish). The products arrive frozen in blocks (varying from 454g to 2.2kg) and are balanced in that they contain the 80/10/10 ratio (80% protein, 10% bone, 10% offal) however we add cooked vegetables, Dorwest Keepers Mix, Salmon oil and eggs once a week as a treat! In addition, we highly recommend Riaflex Canine Joint Plus HA as a joint suppliment.
We travel often and take our dogs with us wherever we go, frozen minced raw food is not always suitable for these trips and so on these occassions we use Platinum. This is a great alternative to raw and we are able to swop to and from the dry and wet versions of Platinum with all our dogs. We also highly recommend this product for anyone not wishing to take the raw feeding option.
Dog Beds, Kennels and Crates
Our Dobermann, Bentley literally destroyed every dog bed we ever purchased untill we discovered Tuffies. Based in Scotland they hand make the most durable and comfortable beds and covers we have ever bought. We highly recommend the "Wipe Clean Mattress Dog Bed" (the best size for a German Pinscher would be 76 x 68) and we also buy the Luxury Fleece Mattress Dog Bed Covers. In our garden we have HiK9 raised dog beds with mesh covers, our dogs all love sunbathing on them! (Medium is a good size for a German Pinscher).
We have always kennel/crate trained our dogs, its essential in a busy home for a dog to have a safe place to rest or sleep in. We have purchashsed a selection of kennels, soft crates and pens for our dogs (we would suggest the minimum size of 30" kennel or crate for a German Pinscher). We would advise against leaving any dog unattended in a soft crate as they are easy to break out of and we strongly endorse removing any collar or harness before leaving a dog unattended in a metal kennel, crate or pen for safety. We use mattresses and covers on our kennels and pens at home and the soft crates are used for when we are away at an event or visiting friends!
Our Dobermann, Bentley literally destroyed every dog bed we ever purchased untill we discovered Tuffies. Based in Scotland they hand make the most durable and comfortable beds and covers we have ever bought. We highly recommend the "Wipe Clean Mattress Dog Bed" (the best size for a German Pinscher would be 76 x 68) and we also buy the Luxury Fleece Mattress Dog Bed Covers. In our garden we have HiK9 raised dog beds with mesh covers, our dogs all love sunbathing on them! (Medium is a good size for a German Pinscher).
We have always kennel/crate trained our dogs, its essential in a busy home for a dog to have a safe place to rest or sleep in. We have purchashsed a selection of kennels, soft crates and pens for our dogs (we would suggest the minimum size of 30" kennel or crate for a German Pinscher). We would advise against leaving any dog unattended in a soft crate as they are easy to break out of and we strongly endorse removing any collar or harness before leaving a dog unattended in a metal kennel, crate or pen for safety. We use mattresses and covers on our kennels and pens at home and the soft crates are used for when we are away at an event or visiting friends!
Guests and Fostering
In recent years we have been personally involved with rehoming German Pinschers, assisting their previous owners who due to changes in circumstances were no longer able to care for their dogs. We have also fostered in our own home until forever families were found. As experienced dog owners who have rescued previously and with an understanding of German Pinscher needs, we were happy to help.
We have had German Pinschers owned by friends stay as guests, these dogs have enjoyed a New Forest vacation! They live a life of luxury with our own dogs and enjoy walks on the beach, riverside and forest! A few captures below of our fosters, guests and rehomes.
In recent years we have been personally involved with rehoming German Pinschers, assisting their previous owners who due to changes in circumstances were no longer able to care for their dogs. We have also fostered in our own home until forever families were found. As experienced dog owners who have rescued previously and with an understanding of German Pinscher needs, we were happy to help.
We have had German Pinschers owned by friends stay as guests, these dogs have enjoyed a New Forest vacation! They live a life of luxury with our own dogs and enjoy walks on the beach, riverside and forest! A few captures below of our fosters, guests and rehomes.
Worming and Flea/Tick Treatment
Whilst travelling abroad and to ensure we meet UK Pet Passport regulations we worm prefarably with Milbemax by Novatis (although more commonly administered is Drontal by Bayer) however whilst at home we take a totally different approach to our treatments. For worming we use Verm-X, 100% natural intestinal hygiene product and we follow a monthy plan with the pellet version of the product range. It is usually advised to have twice yearly faecal checks and for this we recommend Wormcount.com, a very knowledgeable and helful Veterinary Laboratory. For Flea/Tick and Mite treatment we use "Billy No Mates" by CSJK9.com seasonally or when travelling, a product we can confirm is a really effective and natural alternative to "spot on" treatment options.
Whilst travelling abroad and to ensure we meet UK Pet Passport regulations we worm prefarably with Milbemax by Novatis (although more commonly administered is Drontal by Bayer) however whilst at home we take a totally different approach to our treatments. For worming we use Verm-X, 100% natural intestinal hygiene product and we follow a monthy plan with the pellet version of the product range. It is usually advised to have twice yearly faecal checks and for this we recommend Wormcount.com, a very knowledgeable and helful Veterinary Laboratory. For Flea/Tick and Mite treatment we use "Billy No Mates" by CSJK9.com seasonally or when travelling, a product we can confirm is a really effective and natural alternative to "spot on" treatment options.
Importing and Travel
We have experience of importing dogs from abroad into the UK, including quarantine. It is essential to follow the regulations of both the export and import countries and these rules differ from continent to continent. For exit and re-entry into the UK from Europe (i.e. vacation with your dog/or import) you need to have a valid in date Rabies vaccine administered a least 21 days prior to arrival/departure. Before re entry/enter to the UK you must visit a vet and be adminstered Echinococcus (Wormer) treatment between 24 hours and 5 days prior. If you import/travel further than Europe or take a flight different rules apply, you may have to complete a Rabies Antibody Titration Test or have clinical certification from a vet. For up to date information regarding Importing/Pet travel please go to DEFRA's website (Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs www.gov.uk) as the current rules cahnge as from 01/01/2021.
We have been fortunate and travelled extensively throughout Europe including Italy, Spain, France & Ireland with our dogs. The rules of safe travel with your pets vary from country to country however we follow the UK directive to ensure we protect our dogs whilst in transit. Fitted in our car for everyday use is a Crash Tested system Variogate - (tailgate option), having explored various vehicle systems we believe this to be the safest and most secure for our dogs. When travelling in other vehicles we use Crash Tested Car Harnesses manufactured by Canine Friendly, these have the benefit of being easy to fit, comfortable and safe!
We have experience of importing dogs from abroad into the UK, including quarantine. It is essential to follow the regulations of both the export and import countries and these rules differ from continent to continent. For exit and re-entry into the UK from Europe (i.e. vacation with your dog/or import) you need to have a valid in date Rabies vaccine administered a least 21 days prior to arrival/departure. Before re entry/enter to the UK you must visit a vet and be adminstered Echinococcus (Wormer) treatment between 24 hours and 5 days prior. If you import/travel further than Europe or take a flight different rules apply, you may have to complete a Rabies Antibody Titration Test or have clinical certification from a vet. For up to date information regarding Importing/Pet travel please go to DEFRA's website (Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs www.gov.uk) as the current rules cahnge as from 01/01/2021.
We have been fortunate and travelled extensively throughout Europe including Italy, Spain, France & Ireland with our dogs. The rules of safe travel with your pets vary from country to country however we follow the UK directive to ensure we protect our dogs whilst in transit. Fitted in our car for everyday use is a Crash Tested system Variogate - (tailgate option), having explored various vehicle systems we believe this to be the safest and most secure for our dogs. When travelling in other vehicles we use Crash Tested Car Harnesses manufactured by Canine Friendly, these have the benefit of being easy to fit, comfortable and safe!
FCI
The FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) Breed Standard differs to the UK Standard, the illustration details all three of the Pinscher family. The main difference for German Pinschers is the height which in FCI standard is taller. The Australian standard is the same as the UK but the US (American kennel Club) Standard varies again, with the height up to 20 inches.
The FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) Breed Standard differs to the UK Standard, the illustration details all three of the Pinscher family. The main difference for German Pinschers is the height which in FCI standard is taller. The Australian standard is the same as the UK but the US (American kennel Club) Standard varies again, with the height up to 20 inches.
FCI showing and judging is very different to the UK. Within the UK, (Working breeds) you show your dog, get placed are issued with a card and then await your critique which is published for viewing at a later date (if you have been placed 1st to 3rd). At FCI shows, (Group 2) you show your dog and are graded immediately, issued with a certificate and the judge also comments on your dogs positives and negatives within the ring once you have been placed in the class or group.
In order to be awarded the title of a Champion owners of our breed need to exhibit abroad, examples of awards needed for Champion Titles:
Ireland - Seven Green Stars (Excellent grade and best male/female at Championship/ International Shows)
Holland - Four CAC's (Certificate d'Aptitude au Championnat) (Excellent grade and best male/female at National/ International Shows)
Germany - Four CAC's (Certificate d'Aptitude au Championnat) (Excellent grade and best male/female at National/ International Shows)
A CACIB (or Reserve CACIB) (Certificate d'Aptitude au Championnat International de Beauté), International certificate can also be awarded at FCI International shows for being placed best of sex in breed (or Reserve) and four CACIB awards from three different countries and judges gains an International Champion Title. (Age of dog, dates of titles and other criteria applies prior to claiming a Champion Title from the awarding country's Kennel Club or an International Title from the FCI).
(Green Stars and CAC's are the FCI National equivalent to a Challenge Certificate (CC) awarded in the UK)
If CC's were awarded to our rare breed in the UK where only National Championship Shows take place your dog would need to be awarded three to gain a Champion title.
Cropping (ear cutting) was banned in the UK in 1899, however some countries still allow this practice which is purely for aesthetics. The docking (removal of tail) was banned in the UK in 2007, however there is an exemption for certain working dogs if the proceedure is carried out by a registered veterinary surgeon. There are also some countries that still allow docking although both practices are becoming globally less popular.
In order to be awarded the title of a Champion owners of our breed need to exhibit abroad, examples of awards needed for Champion Titles:
Ireland - Seven Green Stars (Excellent grade and best male/female at Championship/ International Shows)
Holland - Four CAC's (Certificate d'Aptitude au Championnat) (Excellent grade and best male/female at National/ International Shows)
Germany - Four CAC's (Certificate d'Aptitude au Championnat) (Excellent grade and best male/female at National/ International Shows)
A CACIB (or Reserve CACIB) (Certificate d'Aptitude au Championnat International de Beauté), International certificate can also be awarded at FCI International shows for being placed best of sex in breed (or Reserve) and four CACIB awards from three different countries and judges gains an International Champion Title. (Age of dog, dates of titles and other criteria applies prior to claiming a Champion Title from the awarding country's Kennel Club or an International Title from the FCI).
(Green Stars and CAC's are the FCI National equivalent to a Challenge Certificate (CC) awarded in the UK)
If CC's were awarded to our rare breed in the UK where only National Championship Shows take place your dog would need to be awarded three to gain a Champion title.
Cropping (ear cutting) was banned in the UK in 1899, however some countries still allow this practice which is purely for aesthetics. The docking (removal of tail) was banned in the UK in 2007, however there is an exemption for certain working dogs if the proceedure is carried out by a registered veterinary surgeon. There are also some countries that still allow docking although both practices are becoming globally less popular.