The Mini Pinscher is also known as the "King of the Toy Dogs".

History

Although it has an appearance similar to the Doberman Pinscher, the Min Pin is not a "Miniature Doberman". Rather, the breed is much older. Although, the miniature pinscher has appeared in paintings and sculptures several centuries ago, the factual documentation on this breed goes back less than 200 years. The Doberman Pinscher was bred by Louis Dobermann in 1890 and development of the Miniature Pinscher breed abroad began in 1895 when Germany's Pinscher Klub was formed and gave the breed its initial standard. Both Miniature Pinscher and Dobermann Pinscher share common ancestors. Similarities between the two may result from a common genetic relation to the German Pinscher. Some genetic stock may have been contributed by the Italian Greyhound, and the Dachshund with no relation to the Doberman or the Manchester Terrier. The source of confusion regarding the relationship between the Doberman and the Miniature Pinscher may have been the result of a Miniature Pinscher breed standard from the 1929, which stated that the breed should appear as a Doberman in miniature. The Miniature Pinscher was imported into the U.S. in 1919 and was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1929.

Appearance

Typically, the Min Pin stands between 25 and 30 cm (10 and 12.5 in) at the withers, weighing between four and six kg. The coat is short and smooth, with colors, according to most breed standards, of red, stag-red, fawn, and black or chocolate with tan markings. Sometimes Min Pins have a silvery black coat, known as a blue coat. The miniature pinscher frequently has a docked tail and cropped ears, though the AKC no longer requires ear cropping for shows.

Temperament

Though Min Pins look like they'd be mean, they are very sweet dogs. They are inside dogs and can stay outside for short periods of time. They are like puppies all their life, unless they are treated cruelly. They are also known as being fearless protectors of their homesteads, as well as their families. The breed 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.

Care

Although the breed is not necessarily bad with children, care must be taken in educating youths about proper handling and play. Although sturdy, they can be easily injured by rough play with a child.

Grooming is easy, as the smooth, short-haired coat requires little attention. Care must be taken in colder weather as the coat provides virtually no insulation from the cold.

Due to their instinct to hunt vermin, special care must be taken in preventing a Min Pin from "attacking" small objects, such as bottle caps, as they could pose a choking hazard.

Min Pins are also prone to overeating, and should have their diets monitored to prevent obesity.

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