Weimaraner puppies sure are adorable, and if you look at the pictures below, you’ll see why! If you grew up watching “Sesame Street” — or if you’re just a fan of dog art — chances are you’re familiar with William Wegman and his charming Weimaraner dogs. These regal-looking, silver canines give off an air of confidence and calm. Also, they’re fairly patient, considering all of the clothes they let their photographer-parent put on them.
You may enjoy Weimaraners so much that you’re considering adopting a Weimaraner puppy of your own! However, before you run out to a rescue or shelter to get a shiny-coated pup, there are a lot of things to learn about the breed. These large, muscular dogs have a short but fascinating history, and they require special care. Here are a few facts you should know about Weimaraner puppies if you plan to make one a part of your family.
The Weimaraner was bred by German nobility
Unlike some dog breeds that have been around for hundreds and hundreds of years, the Weimaraner is relatively new. Originally called Weimar Pointers, these dogs were bred by noblemen as hunting dogs. With their muscular build and overall amicable personality, the Weimaraner made the perfect companion for the nobility who hunted for sport.
The dogs hunted large game and were bred to be quick, have incredible scent-tracking abilities, and be fearless. As the German nobles tinkered with breeding, the Weimaraner developed their signature shiny, gray coat. They earned their name from the Weimar Republic. What’s more, Grand Duke Karl August of Sachsen-Weimar allegedly created the breed entirely by himself. That said, there is no concrete evidence supporting this notion.
Only the elite were allowed to own this hunting breed
The noblemen of Weimar were very fond of the breed they created. To maintain the breed’s standards, the Weimar Court initially controlled access to Weimaraner puppies, ensuring that only select individuals could acquire them. In 1897, they established a breed club to uphold these standards. Fortunately, this exclusivity no longer applies, and there are even rescues dedicated to Weimaraners.
Weimaraner dogs made their way to the United States in the 1920s, largely due to the efforts of Howard Knight, an American breeder who imported two Weimaraners and founded the Weimaraner Club of America (WCA) in 1929. By 1942, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed.
Weimaraner puppies are born with stripes and baby blue eyes
While Weimaraners are typically known for their silvery-gray or blue coats, they don’t start out that way. Like a reverse Dalmatian — who are born spotless — Weimaraner puppies initially have darker tiger stripes that fade a few days after birth.
Not only that, Weimaraner puppies are also born with piercing blue eyes. This doesn’t mean your Weimaraner puppy’s eyes will remain blue, though. When the pups are born, their eyes don’t produce enough melanin to give them a distinct color. Although there isn’t a specific timeline, Weimaraner puppies usually develop enough melanin for their eyes to turn brown, amber, or blue-gray between the ages of two and six months.
There are long-haired Weimaraners, too
Traditionally, Weimaraners have short, sleek coats. However, some puppies are born with a recessive gene that gives them long hair. These long-haired Weimaraners have a beautiful, silky coat that makes them look elegant. Of course, they require a bit more grooming to maintain their coats in top condition.
Long-haired Weimaraners were bred for hunting, much like their short-haired counterparts. However, the fluffier Weimaraners were meant to hunt waterfowl, so they were selectively bred for longer hair to keep them warm in cold winter waters.
These large dogs need a substantial amount of exercise
A tired Weimaraner is a happy Weimaraner! Weimaraners are high-energy dogs who need plenty of physical activity to stay happy and healthy. From an early age, these puppies exhibit incredible athleticism and stamina. They make excellent family pets, as they love running, jumping, and playing fetch with kids. Moreover, if you’re an active person who enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, jogging, or even swimming, a Weimaraner puppy will be your ideal exercise partner. Their boundless energy and enthusiasm for physical activity mean they’ll keep you on your toes and help you stay in great shape.
Weimaraner puppies are incredibly smart, and sometimes mischievous
Experienced Weimaraner parents will tell you that their dogs are smarter than your average pooch. In fact, they are often referred to as “the dog with a human brain.” This smart breed needs a lot of mental exercise to go along with their physical training. They were bred to be super hunters, which means they have a sharp eye, keen sense of smell, and strong muscles on top of being mentally agile. Just make sure you stimulate your Weimaraner puppy enough; otherwise, they might find their own, less desirable ways to alleviate their boredom.
These puppies can get quite vocal
Weimaraner puppies are quite the chatterboxes! They have a distinctive vocal range that includes barks, whines, howls, and even a unique talking sound. This array of noises allows them to communicate effectively with their human companions. You’ll often find them using these sounds to express their needs and desires, or even just to get your attention.
While their vocal tendencies can be endearing, it’s essential to teach them when it’s appropriate to be vocal to avoid excessive noise. It’s just another way these pups show off their vibrant personalities.
Due to their strong attachment to their human, Weimaraners are also known as ‘Velcro dogs’
Ever feel like you’re being followed? If you have a Weimaraner puppy, get used to it! Weimaraners are often referred to as “Velcro dogs” because they stick to their humans like Velcro. This trait comes from their history as hunting dogs, where they needed to stay close to their owners for direction. Don’t be surprised if your Weimaraner follows you from room to room or tries to snuggle up in your lap despite their growing size.
Weimaraners crave human companionship and can get anxious if left alone for too long. This makes them incredibly loyal but also means they’re not the best choice for someone who’s away from home a lot. On the upside, you’ll never feel lonely with a Weimaraner puppy around!
If you’re considering bringing one of these adorable, energetic dogs into your home, you might be wondering, “How much do Weimaraner puppies cost?” Weimaraner puppies for sale can be quite pricey, often ranging from $700 to $1,800. This price can vary depending on factors like the breeder’s reputation and the puppy’s lineage.
That said, it’s worth considering adoption as an alternative. Many rescue organizations and shelters have Weimaraners in need of loving homes, and adopting can be a more affordable and rewarding way to find your new best friend. Whether you choose to buy or adopt, adding a Weimaraner to your life is sure to bring joy and companionship.
