The Buzz About Miniature Pinschers

By Joanne Wilds

Photos Courtesy of the Miniature Pinscher Club of America

Did you know the Miniature Pinscher is not a small version of the Doberman Pinscher?  In fact, nearly 200 years prior to the development of the Doberman, the Min Pin originated on small farms to assist in keeping the property free of vermin.  This small dog was valued for his hardy constitution and tenaciousness in pursuit of his quarry.

The Min Pin today retains those hardy, easy to keep physical traits as well as that drive and desire to hunt out those pesky creatures that can still invade homes – even in suburbia.

Min Pins are an independent breed but still have the capability to excel not only in the conformation ring but also many performance venues.  While not easily trained – with patience and the right incentive – they prove themselves quick to learn whether in the traditional obedience ring, agility or even in non-traditional venues such as tracking, lure coursing and weight pull.  The Breed has recently recognized its first Min Pin to earn the Versatile Companion Dog title.

Judging the Min Pin in the conformation ring can be quite a challenge.  The fearless animation and spirited presence that the standard calls for usually lends to the dogs showing themselves. Both needing and demanding that their handlers not get in the way of their show.  These traits can make it hard on a judge to get not only a good look at them standing still on the ground but also to perform the requisite exam on the table.  As an approved mentor for the breed my best advice to judges for examining Min Pins on the table is to keep it simple and short.  The less handling you do, the better your subject will cooperate and the better your chance to have a good, if albeit quick, look at his overall quality.

In motion is where you can see not only the true personality of this breed but also witness the specific type of movement required in no other breed being exhibited today.  The “hackney-like” movement of the Min Pin brings its own challenge to judges to interpret just how that term is defined, but the standard is actually quite clear in the description. This movement must be “a high-stepping, reaching, free and easy gait” and the dog must drive “smoothly and strongly from the rear.”  And perhaps most important of all, the movement must be accompanied by a sound structure that ensures clean coming and going with movement always in a parallel fashion.

Min Pins are versatile dogs that can adapt to just about any situation you put them in. Those of us who breed, train and compete with them know it is important to socialize this smart, tough, entertaining breed early and always treat them with respect.  While not necessarily a breed for everyone, the Min Pin can make a wonderful companion who will provide you with not only hours of entertainment but is always up for any endeavor you have in mind. They are truly a big dog in a small package!

Those of us in the breed today are fortunate to have been witness to an historic time for the Miniature Pinscher in the conformation ring.  This year alone we have seen a 50 year old record for Best In Show wins broken and the achievement of a Min Pin joining the Best In Show “century” club by winning 100 Bests.  It is very rare to be present at a moment in your breed when such a significant and lasting event takes place.  I, for one, will always be grateful I was around to see our breed achieve such recognition. And always glad to have chosen the King of Toys to be my partners in dog sports and as loving friends.

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Posted by chesliepickett on Aug 28 2013. Filed under The Buzz. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.