FAQ: SMALL MUNSTERLANDERS
The Small Munsterlander, also known as the Klein Munsterlander and the Small Munsterlander Pointer, is a versatile, lightweight hunting dog long admired for is natural ability and versatility. I am new to the Small Munsterlander breed and am not proclaiming to be an expert on this FAQ page but are instead sharing information gathered in my own search for information on the breed along with my personal experience.
Is a Small Munsterlander easy to train?
Small Munsterlanders are smart dogs with a decent level of biddability. They do have a keen eye and a keen nose, making them prone to distractions, along with the energy level that if not kept in check can spill over into excitability in some situations. But in general they are highly owner focused, and enjoy learning. Their natural ability tends to remain strong, and if breeders keep making good breeding decisions when matching dogs that trait will hopefully continue.
Are they good with other animals?
As a breed with a high prey drive, they are going to be more inclined to chasing things that move, and less likely to stop when told. But we find if they are raised around other animals at a young age, they tend to be more accepting. Ours lives with backyard chickens, a variety of other dogs, and cats.
Are Small Munsterlander good with kids/good family dogs?
Although some Small Munsterlanders may be prone to aloofness with strangers, they typically are a social breed and great with kids!
How much exercise does a Small Munsterlander need?
When I first considered adding a Small Munsterlander to my family of dogs, I had read that they were known for being very quiet and calm in the house and high energy outside. They can be prone to barking, especially outside. I found with my two this is absolutely true! I don’t have a lazier dog in the house than my Small Munsterlander. Nap time, and taking it easy on a rainy day is very appealing with a cuddly Munsterlander at your side. Yet they are also up to a day of work or hiking, and I find that they will go all day without stopping! I can’t speak further on why they have this unique blend of energy and off switch but I find it very appealing and one that makes them well suited to a variety of schedules. Remember however, this is a hunting dog, and to not work this dog in the field is a disservice to the breed and the individual dog. I do find they make fantastic little sport dogs too well suited to dock diving, obedience training, agility, and disc.
What kind of grooming does a Small Munsterlander need/Do they shed a lot?
Our female doesn’t seem to shed at all. She also doesn’t carry much coat. I almost never brush her, and I only bathe her once a mos. Our male has a thicker coat with more undercoat and sheds a lot more. But the coat is very easy to maintain and doesnt need clipping/trimming unless you wish to remove the feathering during hunting season.
Is the Small Munsterlander a healthy breed/how long do they generally live?
In general this is a healthy, long lived breed with relatively few health problems. Breeding stock should have their hips xrayed to test for hip dysplasia. Ear and skin problems are other common issues occasionally found. Unfortunately, the devastating disease Epilepsy is also found in the breed, and is at this point in time untestable. Be sure to ask any breeder you hope to work with, if there are any incidences of epilepsy in the direct bloodlines of the puppy you are interested in. Small Munsterlanders typically live into their teens.