General Characteristics

 The Small Munsterlander is for the most part easy to train and makes a great family companion. Its loyalty and affection are second to none. However, it must be remembered that this is an active and intelligent breed so it naturally will require adequate exercise and mental stimulation when fully matured. This should include roadwork and swimming when possible. Most importantly hunting, hunting and more hunting. If left alone Small Munsterlanders have been known to start hunting on their own. Regular grooming is necessary to remove dead hair but the task is elementary and can be done once a week.

The color of the breed is brown and white. Ticking or roan variations are acceptable. The dog should have moderate feathering on the tail, underbody, back of forelegs, and inside of thighs. The breed can be found to have two examples of the characteristics, which Herr Lons wrote about in 1912 and are still present to this day. One line was smaller than the other and was more setter-like with great stamina and pointing ability. This line's heritage can be attributed to inbreeding and line breeding. As a result, there were by far more imperfect dogs who were too frail to be of any real use in hunting but the few that made the grade were outstanding. The other was a more robust dog whose great hunting abilities and love for retrieving was unmatched which owed its existence to line-breeding, and the influx of new blood from other breeds. Ironically both lines were discovered living not too far from each other in small country towns in Heideland, part of Germany. 

Dogs stand 20 1/2 - 22 inches at the withers; bitches 19 3/4- 21 1/4 inches and the weight ranges between 38-58 US pounds (approximate).Generally, the Small Munsterlander is a healthy breed, however, cases of hip dysphasia have been recorded in North America. Proper adherence to the breeding rules of the SMCNA may prevent substantive future genetic difficulties for the breed.To many persons the Small Munsterlander may have the appearance of one of the oldest bird dog breeds, "Hunting Spaniels". This is not far from the truth because of its link to a breed of dog that was used by Noble falcon hunters in the 13th to 14th century. The Small Munsterlander is very even charactered in all respects and non-aggressive to its master or pack members (family). The Small Munsterlander is an elegant and strong dog with a lot of self-confidence. It is a versatile hunting dog that combines desire, intelligence, and devotion to the hunt, enabling him to adapt well to a wide range of terrain or quarry.

 

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