Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is an active, loving, intelligent breed that adores being around people. These dogs don't do well when left alone for long periods. So, they're best suited for a home where they'll get plenty of attention and companionship.

Weims are very affectionate towards their family. They're also brave and competent guard dogs that alert their people—usually with a friendly bark—if something grabs their attention. Because of their exuberance, you should closely supervise your Weimaraner when they're around other dogs or children.

All the skills that make Weimaraners great hunting companions can also make them a nuisance to small pets and wildlife. They may chase or hunt other animals (including cats), and they tend to bark.

Weimaraners need to eat high-quality food that's appropriate for their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior). A diet formulated specifically for large-breed dogs is a good option to consider.

All dogs are at risk for obesity if they overeat. And if there's one thing Weimaraners like to do, it's eat. To keep your pup at a healthy weight, monitor food portions, and cut back if they start to gain weight. And be sure to take treats into account when tracking their daily calorie intake. As a guideline, treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog's calories.

Also important to know: Weimaraners don't always limit the things they eat to food. For some dogs, rocks are a favorite snack. But eating rocks is harmful and, in some cases, can be deadly. So, keep an eye on your pup and immediately remove any non-food items they try to eat.

Finally, Weimaraners are more prone than other breeds to bloat (also known as twisted stomach). To help prevent bloat, break your dog's food up into several daily meals, and use a food bowl designed to slow their rate of eating. Avoid feeding them immediately before or after any kind of vigorous activity. These are just a few ways you can help prevent this life-threatening condition. Ask your veterinarian about other methods, including surgical options, for preventing bloat.

Grooming a Weimaraner is a relatively low-maintenance job. Just brush your pup once a week to remove any loose or dead hair, and clip their nails regularly to prevent them from getting too long. (Overgrown nails can cause discomfort or lead to issues walking.)

Because of their long ears, Weimaraners may be more prone to ear infections than other breeds. So, as part of the grooming routine, also check and clean your dog's ears routinely to prevent infections.

Dogs need dental care, too—both professional and at-home dental care that includes daily teeth brushing. Maintaining good dental hygiene is essential for your Weim's overall long-term health.

Weimaraners are not short on energy. As such, this breed requires a lot of physical activity. But when properly exercised, Weims are happy to relax on the couch alongside their favorite people.

Long runs, vigorous backyard play sessions, swimming, hiking, and retrieving games are great ways for a Weimaraner to burn energy. This breed also enjoys dog sports—such as flyball, hunt and field trials, agility, tracking, and both rally and competitive obedience.

Weimaraners are quick learners that want to please their people. But sometimes, they want to satisfy themselves, too. Curb their tendency toward dominant behavior with firm but gentle training, starting at an early age.

In addition, socialize your Weimaraner as a puppy to help them grow into a well-adjusted adult dog.