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Discover Everything About Weimaraner (Short-haired)
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
Looking for a Weimaraner (Short-haired)?
At a glance
Weimaraner (Short-haired) overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
S
A
B
C
D
E
Very healthyHigher risk
The Weimaraner is a robust working dog, though like many large breeds, it carries a risk for hip dysplasia (HD) and the life-threatening condition GDV (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Additionally, breeders should test for degenerative myelopathy (DM) to rule out neurological issues. Overall, the breed is considered healthy, provided that the parent dogs have undergone thorough mandatory health tests.
Lifespan
10–13 yrs
Height
57–70 cm
Weight
25–40 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,500 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Short, smooth, shiny, without undercoat
- Origin: Germany
Typical coat colors
- Degree
Temperament
Energy
Trainability
Family fit
With kids
Daily life
Care effort
Shedding
Barking
City-friendly
Guard instinct
What matters most
Especially with a Weimaraner (Short-haired), choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the Weimaraner (Short-haired) right for you?
The Weimaraner is a highly elegant, uncompromising Vorstehhund (pointing dog)—bred for demanding hunting and protecting the forester. Behind the silver-gray 'fashion dog' facade lies a serious, thoroughbred hunter that demands clear tasks.
Perfect for you if:
- You use him for hunting or offer him a comparably demanding substitute task like mantrailing or dummy work at the highest level.
- You radiate absolute confidence and can handle a dog that, in case of doubt, will take decisions and the protection of the family into its own hands.
- You live in a rural area and can provide him with the necessary space for his enormous need for exercise.
- You have previous experience with high-drive working dogs and won't be blinded by his beauty.
Less ideal if:
- You expect him to greet every stranger joyfully like a Labrador—his bred-in protective instinct often makes him suspicious and territorial toward strangers.
- You are looking for a pure companion dog for casual jogging or relaxed afternoons in the city park.
- You live in a busy city apartment with a lot of visitor traffic, where he would constantly have to be on high alert.
The real vibes check
A Weimaraner is not a silver accessory for a stroll through the city—he is a highly specialized athlete in a tailored suit who needs a real job. If you ignore his hunting and territorial nature, he will quickly take control of your daily life; if you work with it, you get a loyal partner who would walk through fire for you.
Breed Profile
The Weimaraner (short-haired) is an elegant and athletic hunting dog breed that was originally bred in Germany. It belongs to the group of pointing dogs and is characterized by its short, shiny silver-gray coat. The body of the Weimaraner is slender, muscular, and well-proportioned, giving it impressive endurance and agility. Its head is long and noble with expressive amber-colored eyes that reflect curiosity and intelligence. The Weimaraner is known for its high work enthusiasm, strong hunting instinct, and close bond with humans. Within the breed, there are no clearly separated lines like in Labradors or German Shepherds, but individual dogs vary in their traits from more sporty and work-oriented to family-friendly. This versatility makes the Weimaraner a loyal companion for active people who are looking for a demanding and eager-to-learn dog.
| Height | 57 - 65 cm (Female), 59 - 70 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 25 - 35 kg (Female), 30 - 40 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 10 - 13 years |
| Character | Intelligent, alert, affectionate with the family, but reserved towards strangers, high hunting drive |
| Coat | Short, smooth, shiny, without undercoat |
| Coat Color | Degree |
| Price | 1500 - 2500 € |
History
The history of the Weimaraner (short-haired) begins in the early 19th century in Germany, particularly in the region around Weimar. Originally, the breed was bred by nobles and hunters to create versatile hunting dogs that could perform excellently both on the trail and in the water. The Weimaraner was valued for its endurance, speed, and keen sense of smell. Over time, the breed developed into a popular companion for hunting various types of game. Official recognition as an independent breed took place at the beginning of the 20th century, and the Weimaraner is still known today for its elegance and eagerness to work.
Original Use
The short-haired Weimaraner was bred as a hunting dog and is suitable for hunting large game such as deer and wild boar.
Origin
Germany
Date
1800
Character & Temperament
The Weimaraner (short-haired) is an elegant and athletic hunting dog with a strong work drive. It is characterized by its high intelligence and willingness to learn, making it a versatile partner for active people. Weimaraners are very people-oriented and form a close bond with their family, excelling both as hunting dogs and family dogs. Its temperament is lively and energetic, which is why it needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Without sufficient activity, the Weimaraner tends to become restless and exhibit destructive behavior. It loves to take on tasks, whether in hunting, dog sports, or search work. Due to its strong prey drive, consistent training and early recall training are especially important. The Weimaraner is alert and shows natural protective behavior without being aggressive. It is friendly towards people but requires clear leadership and plenty of social interaction, as it does not like to be left alone for long. Overall, the Weimaraner is a demanding but loyal and versatile companion for experienced dog owners who can provide it with enough activity and attention.
| Trainability Picks up commands quickly and wants to please. | Eager to learn |
| Watchfulness A natural watchdog with real protective instinct. | High |
| Openness to Strangers Careful around unfamiliar people — thaws slowly. | Cautious |
| Hunting or Herding Drive This drive runs deep — no amount of training eliminates it. | Very strong |
Fun Fact!
Weimaraner (Short-haired): Weimaraners are known for their silver-gray coat and incredible endurance. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have such a keen nose that they can track even the smallest traces in the forest – almost like a living detector!
What Awaits You
The Weimaraner (short-haired) is an intelligent and energetic hunting dog that requires a lot of exercise and activity. He is affectionate and family-friendly but also shows a strong protective instinct. Due to his eagerness to learn, he is easy to train and is suitable both as an active companion in everyday life and for hunting tasks.
Housing & Care
Weimaraner (Short-haired): Weimaraners are very active and intelligent dogs that require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They are especially suitable for sporty people or families who spend a lot of time outdoors. Due to their strong need for movement, they are less suitable for apartment living unless they are given sufficient exercise daily. In dealing with children, Weimaraners are usually friendly and patient, but they should be well-trained and socialized to ensure harmonious coexistence. They are very people-oriented and form a close bond with their owners. They can be initially reserved towards strangers but rarely show aggression. Weimaraners generally get along well with other dogs if they are accustomed to contact early on. Cats and other pets can also be accepted if a gentle acclimatization takes place. Overall, Weimaraners are loyal and lively companions who need a lot of attention and activity.
Owning a dog is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you must be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails!!
Training & Education
Weimaraners are extremely intelligent and eager-to-learn dogs that require consistent and varied training. Similar to the German Shepherd, it is important to consider their high energy and strong work drive. Weimaraners love to be mentally and physically challenged, which is why varied training sessions and dog sports such as retrieving, obedience, or tracking are ideal. Training should always be positive and reward-based to strengthen the close bond between you and your Weimaraner. Due to their sensitive nature, they respond particularly well to calm but firm leadership. Frustration tolerance and impulse control are important aspects that should be encouraged early to avoid unwanted behavior. Weimaraners need a lot of attention and activity; otherwise, they can become restless or destructive. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with clear structures and regular rest periods. With patience, consistency, and varied training, you will have a loyal, hardworking, and versatile companion by your side.
Nutrition & Care
Weimaraner (Short-haired): The Weimaraner requires a balanced diet with high-quality, protein-rich food that contains all essential nutrients. Due to its active nature, it is important to monitor calorie intake to avoid overweight and maintain muscle mass. The short, dense coat of the Weimaraner is easy to care for and only needs occasional brushing, about once a week, to remove loose hair and keep the skin healthy. During the shedding periods in spring and autumn, increased hair loss can occur, which can be alleviated by more intensive brushing. Weimaraners are well adapted to the Central European climate. Their short coat protects them from moderate cold, but in extreme temperatures, especially very hot or cold weather, appropriate protection should be ensured. Regular exercise and sufficient outdoor activity are essential for this active breed.
| Care Level | |
| Exercise Needs | |
| Shedding Barely any shedding — occasional vacuuming is enough. | Minimal |
| Trainability Picks up commands quickly and wants to please. | Eager to learn |
This information is currently being reviewed by experts. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de!!
Health
B
Solid
Health grade
The Weimaraner is a robust working dog, though like many large breeds, it carries a risk for hip dysplasia (HD) and the life-threatening condition GDV (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Additionally, breeders should test for degenerative myelopathy (DM) to rule out neurological issues. Overall, the breed is considered healthy, provided that the parent dogs have undergone thorough mandatory health tests.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
With joint-friendly exercise, strict rest periods after eating, and regular eye check-ups, you can do a lot in your daily routine to ensure a long, active dog life.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders have hips, elbows, and eyes checked, use genetic testing to avoid bladder stones, and pay attention to moderate chest depth to reduce risks.
No Health Tests Available
No specific health tests are currently available for this breed.
Experiences with the Weimaraner (Short-haired)
Steffi B., Halterin aus Bayern (Rüde, seit 2012)
Mein Rüde ist mein absoluter Traumhund, aber er ist definitiv kein Selbstläufer. Wer glaubt, ein Weimaraner gibt sich mit einem großen Garten und normalen Gassirunden zufrieden, täuscht sich gewaltig. Diese Hunde haben es faustdick hinter den Ohren und nutzen jede Schwäche gnadenlos aus. Alleine bleiben mag er gar nicht – ohne vorherige intensive Auslastung würde er mir die Wohnung zerlegen.
Damit er ausgeglichen ist, haben wir ein straffes Programm: Neben täglichen, langen Spaziergängen und Radfahren machen wir Dummyarbeit, Fährtenarbeit und Mantrailing. Ein Weimaraner ist ein Vollblut-Arbeitstier mit einem unermüdlichen Arbeitswillen und feiner Nase. Bekommt er diese geistige und körperliche Beschäftigung nicht, kann sich seine rassetypische Schärfe schnell in Aggressionen oder unerwünschtes Verhalten verwandeln.
Für mich ist er der treueste Begleiter, der mir auf Schritt und Tritt folgt. Aber man muss sich im Klaren sein, dass diese Rasse eine sehr strenge, konsequente Hand, viel Zeit und echte Arbeit fordert. Als reiner Familienhund für nebenbei ist er absolut ungeeignet.
Julia M., Jägerin aus Hessen (Hündin, seit 2011)
Wir führen unsere Hündin jagdlich und schätzen an ihr besonders ihre Vielseitigkeit und Gelehrigkeit. Entgegen dem Vorurteil, dass Vorstehhunde eine extrem harte Hand brauchen, haben wir den Weimaraner als echtes Sensibelchen kennengelernt. Sie fordert eine sehr einfühlsame, aber gleichzeitig absolut konsequente Führung – Ausnahmen versteht sie nicht.
Eine der größten Herausforderungen im Alltag ist der ausgeprägte Schutztrieb. Während sie im Haus ein wunderbarer, verschmuster Partner ist, muss man draußen und bei Besuch sehr wachsam sein. Dieser Schutztrieb darf im Alltag nicht unterschätzt werden, besonders wenn man einen so großen, kräftigen Hund führt.
Für uns passt sie perfekt in den Alltag, da wir viel wandern und sie jagdlich auslasten können. Man sollte sich vor der Anschaffung aber genau überlegen, ob man dieser Mischung aus Sensibilität, Jagdtrieb und Schutztrieb gewachsen ist.
Christian S., Halter aus Niedersachsen (Rüde, seit 2005)
Wir haben unseren Weimaraner-Rüden in unsere Familie mit Kindern und verschiedenen Tieren wie Hühnern und Schafen integriert. Er hat sich zu einem tollen, treuen Begleiter entwickelt, der extrem wachsam ist und Haus und Hof zuverlässig beschützt. Er ist sehr gelehrig und kinderlieb, allerdings muss man wegen seines Temperaments und seiner Größe aufpassen, dass er die Kleinen nicht einfach umrennt.
Der Schlüssel zum Erfolg war bei uns eine sehr familienbezogene Aufzucht und die Tatsache, dass wir ihm klare Aufgaben geben. Ohne Beschäftigung und genügend Auslauf wird so ein Hund schnell unausgeglichen. Ein Weimaraner hat einen extremen Dickkopf und erfordert viel Geduld und Hundeerfahrung, besonders bei den kräftigen Rüden.
Zudem muss man auf die Gesundheit achten: Da große Rassen wie der Weimaraner anfällig für Magendrehungen sind, füttern wir ihn grundsätzlich erst nach den Aktivitätsphasen und vermeiden direktes Toben nach dem Fressen. Wer die Zeit und Erfahrung mitbringt, bekommt einen wunderbaren Partner.
sinngemäß aus echten Halterberichten
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Frequently asked questions about the Weimaraner (Short-haired)
Is a Weimaraner (Short-haired) the right dog for me?
The Weimaraner (Short-haired) is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Weimaraner (Short-haired) live?
The average life expectancy of a Weimaraner (Short-haired) is 10-13 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Weimaraner (Short-haired) need?
Weimaraner (Short-haired) grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Weimaraner (Short-haired) good for families with children?
The Weimaraner (Short-haired) can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
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