The Weimaraner Temperament - the Handsome Silver Ghost
By Steve Evans
 The Weimaraner is a first cousin to the German shorthaired pointer. The breed is a, high on the leg, medium to large muscular and sinewy dog of clearly sporting type. The head should be moderately long, balanced and aristocratic; dogs should have wider heads than bitches. The Weimaraner temperament is friendly toward children, and can recommended for homes with young children. Conversely, the Weimaraner is not friendly towards strangers. In fact it is highly territorial and will protect its family in times of danger.
The Weimaraner is known for its handsome, distinctive appearance, loyalty and considerable intelligence. Friendly, gentle and energetic, they make great pets for the active family.
The Weimaraner is also well known for its even temperament and enjoys a reputation as an excellent family dog.
They are normally affectionate and intelligent, requiring discipline, training and plenty of exercise.
The Weimaraner is a large dog, 23-27 inches at the withers (top of the shoulders) and 55-75 pounds, with bitches smaller than males. He is always mouse-gray to silver gray, often blending to lighter shades on the head and ears.
The Weimaraner is a deep-chested dog, which makes them a breed which is high on the list of dogs affected by bloat or gastric torsion. This a very serious condition that causes a painful rapid death when left untreated. They are also an energetic breed with a cheerful, affectionate disposition.
We touched on the fact earlier that the Weimaraner is protective of his house and people and will bark at the approach of strangers. His warning bark is deep and intimidating, but he is neither vicious nor aggresive. They are good with children but this is not a breed that will play with children as they get bored very easily.
 The Weimaraner is an active, intelligent, versatile (multi-talented) and elegant breed. It is a loyal and affectionate friend, and a companion full of enthusiasm.
The breed can be described fairly as an average shedder with a smooth and sleek short coat. However, grooming is easy as this breed can be brushed with a firm bristle brush as needed, though the nails should also be kept trimmed. The breed is classed as an easy-care dog for grooming.
Its tail is usually cut-off to a length of about 6 inches.
Hunting dogs like the Weimaraner often work in thick vegetation and brambles and have a very high risk of injury to their tails. There is therefore good reason for reducing their tail length, as these injuries are very painful, and difficult to treat afterwards.
Hunting, running, bicycling, hiking, swimming, retrieving, and romping through safe fields are all great ways for Weimaraners to exercise. Obedience training and tracking are good problem solving exercises for the ever-active Weimaraner mind.
Breeding has now become more regimented and Weims are once again being sought out for their versatility and beauty. Once again, they are one of the American Kennel Club's most popular dog breeds. Breeding has in recent times been strictly controlled to maintain the quality of bloodlines. There was a boom in interest in the Weimaraner in the 1950s, that weakened the bloodlines.
 Known as the 'Silver Ghost', the coloring of the breed ranges from mousy gray to silvery gray. His coat is sleek, smooth, and close fitting, and he sports an alert and eager expression. Known as "The Forester's Dog,".
The Weimaraner is the constant companion of the professional German forester, who must control predatory animals, bring poachers to justice, track wounded game, and regulate all aspects of game management on the estate. After sharing these tasks all day, the forester's dog joins home and hearth all evening.
Due to the capabilities of his brain, the Weimaraner is incredibly versatile, combining his roles of personal hunting dog and household companion with distinction. In addition to being used as a bird dog and water retriever, he has over the years also been used on wolves, wild cats, deer, mountain lion and bear.
Training methods must be gentle and firm, for harsh treatment will sour his attitude. Training methods must be gentle and firm, for harsh treatment will sour his attitude.
Owners need patience, as this breed is particularly rambunctious during the first year and a half of its life.
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