Fello.pet > Dog Breeds > Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder

Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder

Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder

The Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder can be rightly considered a versatile dog. It is an energetic four-legged friend for your whole family and a reliable assistant in hunting. It treats strangers calmly and guests at home incredibly friendly. Therefore, not too well suited as a guard dog. He has a high level of intelligence and a balanced temperament.

Breed Information

Another NameKleiner MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder,
Munsterlander (Small),
Vorstehhund,
Spion,
Heidewachtel
OriginGermany
HeightMales 54-56 cm
Females 52-54 cm
Weight18-26 kg
FurMedium
ColorDark brown spots on a white background
Lifespan12-14 years
FCI ClassificationPointing Dogs
GroupHunting dogs
PriceFrom $300

Breed Photos

Origin History

The formation of the new Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder breed was justified by the great popularity of hunting spaniels and pointers. The official breeding of the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder began in 1870 in the historical region of Germany – Westphalia. Researchers believe that the founders of the breed may have been the Wachtelhund and the Breton Espagnol. Despite the external and working similarities between the Large and Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder, the breeds are not the same and are not considered close relatives.

Like other representatives of the continental type, the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder was valued by experienced hunters. First of all, for its high performance, compact appearance, and ability to hunt deftly. In 1912, to further promote the breed, the first Small Munster Association was founded.

The American Kennel Club has only partially recognized the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder. It is registered as a purebred breed but is not yet eligible to register its pedigrees. The breed was officially recognized and standardized by the FĂ©dĂ©ration Cynologique Internationale in 1955. The Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder is most common in its homeland and has also gained popularity among hunters in Denmark, Belgium, and the Czech Republic.

Appearance

The physique of the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder is considered very harmonious. It is a medium-sized dog, square in shape and elegant in appearance. The Kleiner MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder is the smallest representative of the leopard dog. The muzzle is long and straight. Flat, slightly convex skull. Oval dark-colored eyes with penetrating and attentive gaze. The ears are close to the head, high, wide, and floppy. Strong neck, which is slightly broadened. Deep chest.

The length of the body is slightly longer than the height at the withers. Strong limbs with well-developed muscles. A confident and swinging gait. The coat is of medium length, thick and shiny. The whole body is slightly uneven and tends to curl. The permissible color is white-brown. Most often, it is a large brown marking and mottling on a white background.

Character

The Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder can be rightly considered a versatile dog. It is an energetic four-legged friend for your whole family and a reliable assistant in hunting. It treats strangers calmly and guests at home incredibly friendly. Therefore, not too well suited as a guard dog. He has a high level of intelligence and a balanced temperament. Not aggressive in his behavior. Hunting instinct can take over only to small animals – here, early socialization is necessary.

It is quite strongly attached to the owner, so you should take care of your time near the Kleiner MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder. If you are ready to provide your pet with long walks, you can safely keep a Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder in the apartment. Of course, the hunting dog will feel more comfortable in a spacious house where he can run around to his heart’s content. Without proper attention from the owner, the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder becomes uncontrollable and loses its good disposition.

Care

There is nothing complicated about caring for a Kleiner MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder. Particular attention should be paid to the care of the pet’s ears. Due to their structure, they are extremely susceptible to the accumulation of dirt and moisture. Inspect them daily and clean them with a special solution. In case of any abnormalities or inflammation, see your veterinarian immediately to prevent otitis media development.

It is recommended to comb out the wavy hair of a Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder twice a week. It is necessary to bathe your pet only when it is dirty. Claws usually clip themselves. If this is not enough, it is advisable to trim them monthly.

Training

In training, the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder usually shows himself very well. He is active, obedient, and curious. However, do not forget his persistence and stubbornness. It is where you should show your authoritative stance on your pet. Kleiner MĂŒnsterlĂ€nders is completely unresponsive and does not understand aggression and violence – this approach is inappropriate in training. Training should be done gently and patiently. You can diversify the training with games so that the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder feels comfortable and more quickly remembers new commands.

Common Diseases

Owners and researchers of the breed do not note any severe hereditary diseases in the Small MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder. The dog is full of strength and energy and has a robust immune system. There are only a few diseases characteristic of the breed:

  • inflammatory processes of the ears (in the advanced state – otitis media);
  • dry skin dermatitis.

Nutrition

To avoid health problems, the Kleiner MĂŒnsterlĂ€nder needs a balanced diet with sufficient protein. If you prefer dry food, it should be premium food for medium breeds. It will contain all the necessary components for the normal formation of your pet. Also, be sure to enrich your dog’s diet with vitamins. It is especially true during the molting period and the cold season.