Small münsterländer spaniel

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Here, you will find all the useful information about small münsterländer spaniel. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

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Overall description of the breed

The Small Münsterländer Spaniel has its origins in Germany, representing a perfect miniature version of the Large Münsterländer Spaniel. This breed is the result of a cross between the Spaniel and the Langhaars, with its creation and selection meticulously developed in the western region of the Münster province and in Lower Saxony.

Its ancestors likely include the Dogs of Oysel, a very ancient breed dating back to the Middle Ages. Initially used as a hunter of falcons and birds of all kinds, it belongs to the family of long-haired pointing dogs, and its standard is governed by the German Münsterländer Spaniel Club established in 1909.

The selection of this breed truly began in 1922 with a rigorous selection of breeding dogs and a systematic registration of subjects in a pedigree book of the Small Münsterländer Spaniel, a register managed by the VDH (Verband Für das Deutsche Hundewesen). Highly appreciated beyond the Rhine, the breed was finally officially recognized by the International Cynological Federation on December 20, 1954.

Also called the Small Münsterlander, it belongs to the category of medium-sized dogs. Its lines are uniform and gracefully drawn, while being solidly built. This excellent hunter possesses great power and a particularly flexible body, which grants it extreme versatility and an ability to adapt to all types of terrain. With a length equal to its height, its body presents a square appearance. Its musculature is well developed, its neck is broad, and its backline is clear, firm, and straight.

Sporting a rather tall stature on legs, its gait is noble and its presence is striking. Its head has a medium length, powerful jaws, and a long and strong muzzle. Its ears are wide, of medium size, and set high. Its coat is mainly white with black spots, blue roan or entirely black. Its fur is long, dense, and smooth, with longer fringes on the ears, legs, and tail.

Regarding its temperament, the Small Münsterländer Spaniel proves to be a wonderful companion, attached to its family and expressive. It requires regular interactions with humans to thrive fully. Intelligent and obedient, it is devoted to its owners, whether at home or during hunting activities. Hardworking and determined, it doesn't shy away from effort and will successfully carry out the tasks assigned to it.

Never aggressive, its character is balanced, and it is gentle with its surroundings, always in search of affection and attention. Pleasant to live with and of calm temperament, it will charm all members of the family.

As an adult, it will weigh between 18 and 23 kg (40 to 50 lb), with a shoulder height ranging between 52 and 56 cm (20.5" - 22") for males, and between 50 and 54 cm (19.5" - 21") for females.

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Origins

The Small Münsterlander, also known as the "Münsterländer", is a dog breed originating from the Münster region in Germany. Its origins date back to the 19th century, where it was developed to be a versatile hunting dog. Developed from crosses between different types of spaniels and local pointers, the Small Münsterlander was selected for its excellent hunting skills, ability to work in different terrains, and balanced temperament. Today, it is appreciated both for its hunting qualities and as a companion dog.

History

The history of the Small Münsterländer begins in the 19th century in Germany. Developed in the Münster region, it is the result of crosses between local spaniels and other hunting breeds, such as pointers. The goal was to create a versatile hunting dog, capable of working on different terrains and retrieving game. The breed was officially recognized in Germany in the early 20th century and gained popularity thanks to its exceptional skills. Today, the Small Münsterländer is recognized by several international dog organizations and continues to excel as a hunting and companion dog.

Standard

The standard of the Small Münsterländer describes a dog of medium size, well-proportioned and elegant. Males measure between 50 and 56 cm at the withers and females between 48 and 54 cm. Their weight ranges from 18 to 25 kg. Their head is noble with a slightly domed skull and a strong muzzle. The eyes are of medium size, dark brown and expressive. The ears are wide, high set and drooping. The body is muscular with a deep chest and a straight back. The tail is carried straight or slightly curved. The coat is medium in length, dense and slightly wavy, often brown and white with patches.

Physical characteristics

The Small Münsterlander is a medium-sized dog, measuring between 48 and 56 cm at the withers and weighing between 18 and 25 kg. It has a medium-length, dense and slightly wavy coat, which protects it from the weather. The coat colors mainly include brown and white with spots. Its head is noble with dark brown, expressive eyes and wide, drooping ears. The body is well proportioned, muscular with a deep chest and a straight back. The tail is carried straight or slightly curved, adding to its elegant and dynamic appearance.

Character

The Small Münsterlander is known for being friendly, intelligent, and energetic. It is a devoted and loyal dog to its family, who loves to be involved in all activities. Very sociable, it gets along well with children and other pets. As a hunting dog, it is brave, determined, and has an excellent sense of smell. It is also curious and loves to explore its environment. Its intelligence and desire to please make training relatively easy. The Small Münsterlander is an affectionate companion, always ready to play or work.

Life expectancy

The Small Munsterlander has an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, although some individuals can live longer with proper care. To ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and a safe environment. Preventing diseases and paying particular attention to common health issues in this breed, such as hip dysplasia and eye conditions, are crucial. By taking care of their overall well-being, owners can help their Small Munsterlander live a long and happy life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Small Münsterlander is a very active breed that requires a lot of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. At least an hour of walking, playing, and stimulating activities is necessary each day. This dog loves activities that involve running, hunting, and interactive games. Canine sports like agility, flyball, and rally obedience are ideal for channeling its boundless energy. Without enough exercise, the Small Münsterlander can become destructive and develop undesirable behaviors. An enriching environment with physical and mental challenges is essential for its well-being.

Recommended diet

The Small Münsterlander Spaniel requires high-quality food, adapted to its size and activity level. A balanced diet, rich in proteins and essential nutrients, is crucial to maintain its health. The monthly costs to feed a Small Münsterlander Spaniel typically range between 40 and 60 euros, depending on the quality of the chosen food. It is important to monitor portions to avoid obesity, as this dog tends to gain weight easily. Regular consultations with a veterinarian to adjust the diet according to the dog's specific needs are recommended.

Training and obedience

The Small Munsterlander is intelligent and receptive to training, making it an easy student to train. However, it can sometimes be stubborn, requiring firm but gentle training. Positive reinforcement, with rewards such as treats and praise, works well in motivating this dog. Early socialization is essential to avoid shyness or aggressive behavior towards strangers and other animals. Training sessions should be short and varied to maintain its interest. With patience and consistency, the Small Munsterlander can become a well-behaved and obedient companion.

Behavior with children

The Little Münsterlander is generally good with children, thanks to its affectionate and patient temperament. It is playful and loves to participate in family activities. However, due to its energetic nature, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid accidents. Children should learn to handle this dog gently and respectfully. With proper training and socialization, the Little Münsterlander can become an excellent companion for families, bringing much joy and entertainment.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Small Münsterlander can harmoniously coexist with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. Due to its sociable and affectionate nature, it generally gets along well with other dogs and even cats. However, it may sometimes display dominant behavior, especially towards larger animals. Gradual introduction and initial supervision are recommended to ensure harmonious cohabitation. Adequate socialization and proper training can help reduce tensions and promote good rapport with other animals.

Grooming needs

The Small Münsterlander requires regular grooming to keep its coat healthy. Weekly brushing is enough to remove dead hairs and keep the coat smooth and shiny. Baths can be given monthly or as needed to keep the coat clean. It is also important to clean the ears regularly to prevent infections and check the eyes to prevent irritations. Nails should be trimmed regularly and teeth brushed at least once a week to prevent dental problems.

Health

The Small Münsterländer is generally a robust breed, but can be prone to certain health conditions. Common problems include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye conditions such as cataracts. Regular veterinary care, balanced nutrition, and appropriate exercise are essential to maintain its health. It is crucial to choose a reputable breeder who conducts health tests on their dogs to minimize the risk of hereditary diseases. With proper care, the Small Münsterländer can lead a long and healthy life.

Average price

The price of a Small Munsterlander puppy generally ranges from 800 to 1500 euros, depending on the lineage, the breeder's reputation, and the specific characteristics of the puppy. Puppies from champion lines or reputable breeders may cost more. It is crucial to ensure that the breeder adheres to ethical standards and provides necessary documents, including health tests of the parents. Initial fees often include vaccination, deworming, and sometimes microchipping. Prospective owners must be prepared to invest in a healthy and well-socialized puppy.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Small Munsterlander can vary, but typically range between 700 and 1200 euros (800 to 1400 dollars). This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming costs, accessories such as toys and walking equipment. Veterinary expenses may increase in case of illness or injuries. It is also advisable to budget for training classes, especially during the first year. Pet insurance may also be an expense to consider to cover unexpected costs.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for your Little Münsterlander can be fun. Here are some suggestions: "Leo" evokes the lion, reflecting his courage. "Fleur" means sweetness and beauty, perfect for a delicate female. "Max" is a classic name that suggests greatness. "Ruby" recalls a precious stone, symbolizing his value. "Gaston" is a nod to his French origins. "Luna" means moon, for a dreamy dog. "Oscar" is noble and distinguished. "Bella" for an elegant beauty. "Rex" means king, reflecting his noble nature. "Milo" is a sweet and affectionate name.

Legislation and regulation

The Small Münsterlander is not classified as a dangerous breed and is therefore not subject to any specific strict regulations. However, owners must comply with local laws regarding dog ownership. This includes registering the animal, mandatory vaccination, and identification by microchip. In France, for example, it is mandatory to keep dogs on a leash in public spaces and pick up their droppings. Owners must also ensure that their dog does not cause any nuisance to the community.

Official recognition

The Small Munsterlander is recognized by several cynological organizations around the world. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has recognized the breed and includes it in Group 7 of pointing dogs. In Germany, it is registered by the Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH). In the United States, the breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). These recognitions allow dogs of this breed to participate in dog shows and benefit from the health and welfare standards defined by these organizations.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees of Small Münsterlander Pointers are available from various recognized breed clubs around the world. In Germany, the Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH) is the main organization. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) also registers pedigrees for this breed. In France, the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) also recognizes the breed and registers pedigrees. These clubs provide information on breeding, health, and care of the breed, and organize events and exhibitions. They are also a valuable resource for breeders and owners of Small Münsterlander Pointers.

Destination and usage

The Small Münsterländer is mainly used as a hunting dog, specialized in tracking game, especially birds and small mammals. Thanks to its excellent sense of smell, clear voice, and endurance, it excels in this activity. Outside of hunting, it is also appreciated as a companion dog for active families who can meet its exercise and mental stimulation needs. Its sociable and affectionate character makes it suitable for family life, provided it receives enough activities to channel its energy.

Prohibitions

The Small Münsterländer is not subject to any specific bans in known countries. However, it is essential to comply with local laws regarding dog ownership. Certain regions may have specific regulations regarding dog breeds in general, such as the obligation to keep them on a leash in public places or to register them with local authorities. In general, there are no known countries that specifically ban the Small Münsterländer, but it is always advisable to check local regulations to ensure legal compliance and good cohabitation with the community.

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