In 2004, the German Pinscher competed at its first Westminster Kennel Club. They are light enough to be extremely agile and solid enough to be strong. The Standard Schnauzer (then referred to as the Wire Haired Pinscher) was originally born in the same litter as the German Pinscher. The AKC has grouped all of the breeds that it registers into seven categories, or groups, roughly based on function and heritage. Even today you can observe German Pinschers searching for and finding rats in open areas and in homes. The German Pinscher is a medium size, short coated dog, elegant in appearance with a strong square build and moderate body structure, muscular and powerful for endurance and agility. They are Canine Good Citizens, AKC STAR puppy certificate earners, Therapy dogs, Search and. Due to the small gene pool of the German Pinscher, breeders should health test their dogs for hereditary cataracts, hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, von Willebrand disease, thyroid disorder, and with the increased incidences of cardiac disease[10] due to irresponsible breeding practices, German Pinschers suspect for heart issues should be removed from all breeding programs. We have plenty of opportunities to get involved in your local community thanks to AKC Breed Clubs located in every state and more than 450 AKC Rescue Network groups across the country. They require a firm and knowledgeable owner, preferably with previous experience with other working dogs. The forechest is distinctly marked by the prosternum. Over time, breeders decided to separate the "varieties," changing them to actual "breeds". Neck – elegant and strong, of moderate thickness and length, nape elegantly arched. This energetic, super-intelligent dog was at first used as a rat catcher but can be trained for all types of canine work. Want to connect with other people who love the same breed as much as you do? Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. The German Pinscher is known for its vermin hunting ability. The brisket descends to the elbows and ascends gradually to the rear with the belly moderately drawn up. The German Pinscher, like many breeds, approached extinction at the end of World War I and II. The breed is rising in numbers in the U.S., mainly due to their full acceptance to AKC in 2003. Credit is attributed to Werner Jung for collecting several of the breed in 1958 to continue the German Pinscher as we know the breed today. [6] These medium-sized dogs descended from early European herding and guardian breeds. They are Canine Good Citizens, AKC STAR puppy certificate earners, Therapy dogs, Search and Rescue Dogs, Service Dogs, and companions. Forelegs – straight and well boned, perfectly vertical when viewed from all sides, set moderately apart with elbows set close to the body. Windamir's Chosen One. The American Kennel Club is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function.