Weimaraner

• ExerciseVery high

  Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–13 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Bloat (GDV) · Hip dysplasia · Von Willebrand disease

The Weimaraner, the elegant silver 'Gray Ghost', is a high-drive hunting dog that combines serious athletic stamina with an intense, almost obsessive attachment to its people. It shadows its owner from room to room and genuinely cannot cope with being left alone, so separation anxiety — with destructive howling and chewing — is the classic problem in the wrong home. This is a dog for active owners who want a constant companion: it needs a great deal of vigorous daily exercise plus mental work, and structured, positive training to channel its intelligence and strong prey drive. The short coat is wonderfully easy, needing only a weekly wipe. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips, and be aware of the breed's risks: bloat and gastric torsion is a real danger (feed measured meals from a raised bowl and rest after eating), and it can have hip dysplasia, the bleeding disorder von Willebrand disease and hypothyroidism. Give a Weimaraner an active, involved home with serious exercise, mental challenge and constant companionship, avoid long hours alone, guard against bloat, and it will be a devoted, spirited partner for ten to thirteen years.

• How much exercise does a Weimaraner need?

  Very high. Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• How much grooming does a Weimaraner need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Weimaraner suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Weimaraner a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Weimaraner live?

  10–13 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Weimaraner?

  Keep an eye out for Bloat (GDV), Hip dysplasia, Von Willebrand disease. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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