Weimaraners are an incredible breed with a long history. They grew from an aristocratic hunting dog to one of the most popular breeds in the world. They have been owned by famous people and travelled to famous places. Weims have even become a cultural phenomenon. This breed has many fun tales across its existence. Here are 10 things you may not have known about Weimaraners.
1. They were originally from Germany
The Weimaraner comes from Weimar, Germany in the early 19th century. They were bread by noblemen who needed a dog with courage, intelligence, stamina, speed and an amazing scenting ability. These breeders combined the Bloodhound, English Pointer, German Shorthaired Pointer, the blue Great Dane and the silver-grey Huehnerhund, to create the Weimaraner.
Originally Weimaraners were a closely guarded secret, only allowing Germans to breed and own one. However, in the early 20th century they were shipped to America, however failed to catch on. This all changed after World War 2. American soldiers in Germany fell in love with the Weimaraner and adopted them, bringing them home to the U.S.A. Once there, they soon became a household standard, everyone owned one.
2. Weimaraner puppies are born with stripes
When born, Weimaraner puppies are covered in stripes. It can look really strange for those who are used to the smooth silver-grey coat of the Weim. They do soon lose these stripes, returning to the silver-grey we all know and love. Generally, the stripes will only remain for a few weeks after birth.
3. Grace Kelly owned a Weimaraner
Famous actress and model Grace Kelly would be the last person who you would think was a Weimaraner owner, especially considering today’s celebrity love of toy dogs. But, she was a huge fan after she got her Weimaraner from her brother as a wedding present for her marriage to the Prince of Monaco. The royal pooch can be seen posing with Grace Kelly in many photos.
4. There was a Weimaraner in the White House
President Dwight D. Eisenhower had one famous Weimaraner, Heidi. Like many presidential dogs she took up residence at the White House. However, she soon became the first presidential dog to be kicked out of the White House and sent back home. Heidi was known to be one naughty Weimaraner and had an accident with a historical rug in the White House. The White House staff were not impressed.
5. William Wegman’s Weimaraner artwork brought the breed back to popularity
After the 50’s and 60’s Weimaraners fell out of popularity in the U.S. and almost disappeared entirely. In the 70’s William Wegman began photographing his Weimaraner, Man Ray. Man Ray’s endearing deadpan presence, with silly costumes or situations imposed over the top, led to him becoming one incredibly famous Weim. Once Man Ray died Wegman got some new Weimaraners who continued to star in his artwork. You can even see them on 11 mosaic murals in the 23rd street subway station in New York City.
After Wegman’s artwork the Weimaraner returned to being one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.
6. They will do all they can to get your attention
Weimaraners love attention and will do everything they can to get it. It is a nonnegotiable aspect to living with a Weimaraner. They love to get in on the action on whatever you are doing. Whether this is gardening, doing the laundry, and especially cooking, they want to be there, putting himself between you and the task. Of course, it is only because he loves you.
7. They are creatures of habit
Weimaraners will often develop a daily routine. If it is not followed, they will make it very obvious to you. Weims always have their way of letting you know that it’s play time, or toilet time, or dinner, or time for a walk. Whether that be by barking, through body language, or fetching objects and putting them in your lap. Sometimes you will wonder if they really are human!
8. They love the company of other pets
Another pet can really help a Weimaraner avoid separation anxiety, and fortunately they work well with other pets. While another pet may not be you, it is the next best thing, as long as they can play along. Remember Weimaraners are big dogs who are bred to chase small animals so beware with cats or small dogs. If you have a medium to large dog your Weim will get along well with them.
9. Weims can get cold easily
You can just tell by looking at them that this is not a dog for cold weather. Their short coats are incredible for keeping cool while chasing after prey all day long but come wintertime these dogs need a warm dry place to sleep. Often that will be right at your feet. To make sure they stay warm keep them inside and give them a warm place to sleep where there are no drafts. You will have one happy Weim.
10. They come in long-haired and blue variants
If you want a long-haired version or perhaps one in a darker colour, then you’re in luck! Weimaraners come with many alternate coats that you may prefer. While you won’t be able to take a Blue Weim to a competition they still make incredible pets. If you love the long-haired Weim and want to compete you are in luck, in every kennel club across the world, except for in the U.S.A., the long-haired Weimaraner is a recognised variant.
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