Miniature Pinscher

Lifespan: 12 - 14 years

Height: 10 - 13 inches

Weight: 8 - 10 pounds

History

The miniature pinscher is a miniature version of the German pinscher (not the Doberman pinscher, which was developed after the min pin).
It probably arose from crossing German pinschers with Dachshunds and Italian greyhounds.
In the early 1800s they were developed as a distinct breed called the "reh pinscher," so named because of their resemblance to the German roe (reh) deer. Pinscher simply means terrier.
In the late 1800s, breeders tried to produce tiny size at the expense of other features. In the early 1900s, the trend was reversed and the breed became a slightly taller but more elegant dog, gaining popularity quickly.
Their popularity plummeted around the world after World War I, but slowly regained momentum in America.
The AKC recognized them in 1929.
The min pin is known as the "king of toys."

Makes an endlessly enthusiastic and energetic companion.
Playful and very good with children, although very young or unruly children may hurt it with rough play.
Reserved with strangers.
May be cocky and even scrappy with other dogs.
May not be good with small pets.
Does best with reward-based training involving food or games.
Learns quickly, but is easily bored and distracted.
Some may bark a lot.

Makes an alert housedog.
This is an extremely active and playful dog. A daily walk around the block, coupled with several play sessions, will help meet its exercise needs.
May not do well in dog parks unless large dogs are segregated from small dogs. Even so, some min pins may bully other small dogs.
Games and tricks provide needed mental exercise.
Its thin coat and small size makes it vulnerable to chilling.

Min pins have a tendency to be overweight.
Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.
Small snacks can cause weight problems in tiny dogs.
Tiny min pin puppies should be fed often to prevent hypoglycemia, a serious condition to which very small puppies are prone. Frequent small meals of high protein, fat, and complex carbohydrates may help guard against this condition.