King of  The Toy Breeds

The Miniature Pinscher, the “King of Toy Breeds”, also known as the Min Pin, is a breed of small dog in the Toy category. In its native Germany, the dog is known as the Zwergpinscher. Pinscher, refers to a classification of dogs bred as guardians or to hunt vermin, especially rats.Zwerg, in German, means Dwarf or Midget.Pinscher, in German, means Terrier. Though the Miniature Pinscher is considered a toy breed because of their small size, their temperament resembles the terrier more.

Although the Miniature Pinscher looks like a smaller version of the Doberman, Pinscher is not a “Miniature Doberman”. The Min Pins origins are much older than the Doberman. The Miniature Pinscher appeared in paintings and sculptures several centuries ago. The Miniature Pinscher was introduced to the AKC show ring in 1919. At that time not knowing that it was referred to officially in Germany as the Zwergpinscher the AKC referred to the breed as simply, Pinscher. In 1929 the breed was officially introduced into the AKC. Not knowing it was a true Terrier breed, decided to officially place it in the toy breed classification. For conformation purposes the description that the AKC noted “must appear as a Doberman Pinscher in miniature” led to the misunderstanding still known today that this breed is a “Miniature Doberman Pinscher” when in fact it is not even related. The Miniature Pinscher and Doberman Pinscher share no common ancestry. In 1836, Dr. Reichenbach after years of study of the breed determined that the Miniature Pinscher was derived from crossing a smooth coated Dachshund with an Italian Greyhound. The goal was to make a faster ratter. This breed was primarily used on farms where open fields left for a faster dog to chase down rats and mice. The Min Pin was also used to hunt vermin in stables and farm kitchens.

The Miniature Pinscher is a very energetic breed that requires a great deal of exercise. These dogs enjoy agility training and attending competitions gives them a chance to shine. They are also prone to overeating and should have their diets monitored to prevent them from becoming overweight. Due to their instinct to hunt vermin, special care must be taken to prevent a Min Pin from attacking small objects, such as coins or small toys like legos, as they could pose a choking hazard. The Min Pin has a single coat, no undercoat which makes them primarily an indoor breed.Min Pins do not tolerate cold or wet weather well.

Being an independent breed by nature, they prefer to initiate contact and generally do not do well being overly handled. This is where much of the misconception of the breed being a biter comes from. Making them not always the best breed for small children. Although, the Min Pin is not necessarily bad with children, care must be taken in educating the child about proper handling and play. Although sturdy, they can be easily injured by rough play with a child. They are quite fearless and can be overprotective.

Typically, the Min Pin stands between 10 and 12.5 inches at the shoulders, weighing between 10 and 12 1/2 inches. This breed does not see itself as a small dog but rather a big dog and therefore can get into trouble easily. The Min Pin has a very strong protective attitude and guard instinct. They can be a one person owner or adapt greatly to families. The Min Pin is very loyal and will alert their owner to any changes within the home environment. Miniature Pinschers are not for everyone, as they are very curious, strong willed, and frolicsome. Their owners must have a great sense of humor and a lot of patience. Keeping in mind that this breed is in fact a working breed, spoiling could result in the dog becoming somewhat of a tyrant. The Min Pin by nature can be stubborn so anything to induce this generally will result in a more difficult dog to handle.

Grooming is easy, as the smooth, short-haired coat requires little attention. They should be brushed with a firm bristle brush. Loose hair can be removed by wiping with a damp warm cloth. Min Pin’s are an average shedder. They do have problems with overgrown nails. Be sure to check your Min Pin’s nails frequently.

The Miniature Pinscher having a refined elegance, regal look, style, grace, mighty fearlessness, and impish character has earned the title “King Of Toy Breeds”.