You've probably seen Weimaraners in the popular photographs of William Wegman, their expressive faces looking almost human.
Even if you can't pronounce or spell its name, you've probably seen this sleek and handsome breed in the popular photographs of William Wegman, dressed in a variety of costumes, their expressive faces looking almost human.
The origin of the breed is unclear, but they've been around for several centuries. Some of the theories say they're descended from ancient German pointing dogs and hounds, while other give the credit to a Grand Duke Karl August of Weimar, who cross-bred different types of pointers.
The first Weimaraners were used to hunt, track and bring down big game, and later small game and upland birds. Weimaraners were brought to the United States in the late 1920s.
"Weims," as their fans call them, are very intelligent, affectionate and sensitive animals, devoted to their human families. They love companionship, and don't do well alone. Only get one if you're planning to share your home and attention with him. Mature males weigh 55-70 pounds, females 50-65 pounds. They're a good family dog and a devoted protector, but their tendency for rambunctiousness makes them a poor choice for families with very small children.
Weims have a tendency to willfulness, so begin training your pup early, and be firm from the start. They're quick learners, but can easily get bored with too much repetition. Start with brief training sessions of 10-15 minutes, twice a day, and increase that as your pup matures.
KEEP IN MIND
Weimaraner pups tend to suffer from separation anxiety when left alone, causing excessive barking and destructive chewing. Crate training is an effective way to acclimate your pup to spending time alone. Start with short periods daily, and increase them as your pup gets used to the crate. Pups quickly get acclimated to their crates, and enjoy its safe and comfortable environment.
A boisterous and outgoing breed like the Weim will also benefit from group puppy classes and obedience training.
The initial training you give your dog is called "puppy socialization." From his first day, be consistent in teaching your Weim what's expected of him, and what behavior won't be tolerated. Stop bad habits before they start. You might not mind an adorable puppy romping on your bed, but you'll think twice about that behavior once it grows into a 70-pound dog!
START WITH HIS NAME
As soon as you get him home, begin calling your Weim by his name, and add it to any and all commands you use ("Sit, Bounder." "Come,Bounder." to eat, Rascal.") He'll learn by hearing his name repeated, and also by your tone and smile as you say it. Save the nicknames and any alternate names until he's learned his name. Don't forget to praise him every time he responds.
HOW YOU SAY IT IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN WHAT YOU SAY
Dogs have acute hearing, and it's more important to use the right tone than the right words. Most dogs relate a low or growly voice with a command or correction, and a higher tone with praise. You can also train your pup to respond to hand signals accompanied by verbal commands, such as "No!" with your hand up in the "stop" position, or tapping your side while you say "Come, puppy."
Begin with basic one-syllable commands like "sit, come, stay." Teach him one until he masters it, then go on to the next. Firmness, consistency and praise are the way to effectively train your puppy. Don't be stinting in your praise and affection when training. Healthy food treats are good as a reward, but don't overdo them. Your approval is the treat your dogs most crave.
RECALL
Coming on command ("recall") is the next skill to teach. You can easily work it into his regular day, when it's time for meals, walks, etc.
The puppy must come to you""not the other way around. "Recall" is NOT a game, and if you chase after him trying to get him to come, he'll confuse it with one. Stay in one place, repeat the command and wait for your dog to come to you.
HOUSEBREAKING
Training your puppy on where and where not to go can be the puppy owner's greatest challenge. Persistence and patience is key!
An ability to control the urge is not yet fully developed in young puppies""and getting angry with them will not make them learn any quicker. They will have accidents""and when they do, pick him up and say 'No!' in a very firm voice. Let him know that this is unacceptable behavior. It may take a while, but they will eventually get the message.
Watch your puppy's habits and watch for signs. Most will have to relieve themselves immediately after waking and after meals. Take him to the place you want him to use, and give the command. Always, always use the same word. (It doesn't have to be bathroom-related. Whatever the term, the pup will learn that when he's taken to a particular place and hears his command, it's time to go to the bathroom. Praise him every time.
Watch for signs he needs to go, such as sniffing the floor, circling, squatting or scratching at the door. When he does, take him out right away. It'll take time, but soon he'll be letting you know when he needs to be taken out.
If you pup has an accident indoors, clean it up immediately so that he won't be attracted to the scent and be tempted to repeat the behavior later.
