The perpetual motion machine of the dog world, the Miniature Pinscher is known for its proud prance and King of Toys persona.
Heritage
The Miniature Pinscher's ancestors caught small rodents in Germany. The breed is actually a miniaturized version of the German Pinscher–not the Doberman Pinscher. Dachshunds and Italian Greyhounds also probably are in their background. The breed was one of the most popular breeds in Germany in the early 1900s, but it took longer to catch on in America. But by the 1990s, they were one of the 20 most popular breeds in America.
One of the most active and playful of all dogs, you'll want to stock your home with a huge variety of toys. After all, they are called "The King of Toys."
Upkeep
Feed your Miniature Pinscher puppy a puppy food designed for small dogs. Very small puppies should be fed small amounts often–more than larger dogs–because they can't store glucose efficiently. They can easily develop hypoglycemia if they are active and have gone without food for too long. Puppy food for small dogs combats hypoglycemia because it is high in protein, fat and complex carbohydrates. If your puppy becomes sleepy to the point of being hard to rouse, or unresponsive, it's an emergency. Rub syrup on his gums and get him to the veterinarian immediately. Most Min Pins outgrow the danger by only a few months of age, but you should be aware of the signs and prevention. Even as adults, a food designed for small dogs is the best choice.
Min Pins are somewhat prone to knee problems. If you see your dog skipping on his hind leg for a step or two, he may have a condition your veterinarian needs to check. He may also eventually develop arthritic changes in his knees. To combat this, add a glucosamine-chondroitin supplement to his diet as soon as he shows any signs of hopping or lameness.
Miniature Pinscher coat care is generally easy. The hair is short and requires only a quick brushing to remove dead hair once a week. Bathe your Min Pin as needed to combat doggy odor. For dogs with healthy skin, we suggest a deodorizing or color enhancing shampoo. For those with itchy skin, try an avocado oil or oatmeal-based shampoo.
Most Min Pins have healthy ears, but you should still check them for signs of redness, itching or debris weekly. Any time they get goopy, clean with an ear-cleanser. If the goop comes back, see your veterinarian.
Smaller dogs are prone to dental problems and tooth loss, so brush the teeth daily.
Clip the nails every two weeks or so using a light-duty dog nail clipper.
Miniature Pinschers hate to slow down for anything, but sometimes age-related physical changes, such as arthritis, make it tough to keep going at full intensity. Besides any intervention recommended by your veterinarian, a soft cushion to lie on and glucosamine chondroitin supplements added to the diet can help soothe aching joints, and keep him as young in body as he is in spirit.
