Weimaraners are active, high energy, medium sized dogs with short hair. But that’s not the whole story.
Allow me to describe what life with Weimaraners is like in a little more detail, and then really think about whether or not this breed’s for you. Warning, this post is a long one; grab a chair and a hot coffee… Or a cold beer.
Let’s start with some Weimaraner truisms.
Weimaraners aren’t your average dog. They have personality; lots of it. Mine are spunky, goofy, tenacious, crafty, sneaky, and quick. Sometimes, I think they’re clowns. They know how to dance, twirl, pirouette, speak, high five, jump, and spin. They perk up their ears when I talk to them. They turn their heads to hear me out. They groan when I scold them. They sulk when I bust them. And they huff when I annoy them. (Every now and again I annoy them on purpose… because I’m a jerk like that). In a way, life with Weimaraners is like life with toddlers. They can communicate, but they don’t always listen… They’re curious, but get into stuff… They’re hyperactive, then sleep like the dead. At the end of the day, I still love them, and they love me back… unconditionally.
Weimaraners are smart. My dogs understand phrases and complete sentences. I can’t say “let’s go to the car” without them freaking out (because they’ll think they get to come, too, and it gets them really, really excited). Instead, when I tell my kids it’s time to go, we have to “go to the c-a-r.” I also have to spell out w-a-l-k or d-i-n-n-e-r if I’m trying to exclude my dogs. They’re also exceptional in problem-solving aptitude and have a knack for opening various cabinets and helping themselves to whatever is edible. On occasion, they’re even sneaky enough to PUT THE EMPTY BOX BACK. They know how to open doors (with handle levers), sneak food off counter tops, and pick tangerines off the tree, peel off (and spit out) the rinds, and snack on the insides.
This is an ad Miss Britta did for Just Weimaraners. What’s really going on is that her water bowl was dry and she was bringing it to us for a refill. Weims are efficient like that.
They also use their eyes to communicate. It’s obvious Britta’s trying to get me to pity her here… too bad lady, no room for you!
Weimaraners don’t like to be alone. Dogs are pack animals; they want to belong to a group, whether it’s dogs or people, or both. Weimaraners take it one step farther; they take a very ACTIVE role in being part of the pack. REALLY THINK ABOUT HOW MUCH YOU VALUE YOUR PERSONAL SPACE.
When I’m hanging out at the house, watching television on the sofa, my dogs aren’t happy just sitting nearby; they have to be on someone, if not wedged next to someone.
When I’m working at my desk, they’re usually under my feet.
When I get up to go, ummm… potty, they’ll follow me there, too.
I even get company at the stove.
The only success I’ve had with separating myself from my dogs is when I physically build a chairicade to keep them out. Or in.
Weimaraners like to be included. Actually, this one’s more on me; I like including my dogs. So we go places, we do things. When I travel, they usually come with me. When they can’t, my first choice is to leave them with other Weimaraner owners (because my average “friend who likes dogs” doesn’t translate into “friend who is qualified to watch Weimaraners”). While I have, in the past, kenneled my dogs, that’s not really the best place for them. Also, my dogs LOVE road trips, and they are really well behaved when we stay in rental cabins, lodges, bed and breakfasts, and hotels. On the occasion that we have to slum it in a motel, they’ve been great there, too.
When we’re tight on space, someone always has to ride in the trunk. It’s still comfy back there.
When the pup gets tired of being in the back, he slinks into the middle.
…and falls into the cracks. Dogs can sleep in the weirdest places.
Weimaraners need training. And it may not be easy. Mine can be stubborn and mischievous and have no trouble walking away from me if they’re bored with what I’m doing. My dogs are powerful and strong-willed, ESPECIALLY my girls (they don’t call them bitches for nothing) and they’re constantly testing boundaries. Owners have to be the take charge type, and be a good leader. If you can’t or won’t take charge and lead, then your dog will. Weimaraners are also sensitive, so training should involve a lot of praise, positive reinforcement, and treats. You also have to be confident (fake it if you need to). Note: Harsh discipline will make your dog ignore you. I will also add: Working with a dog trainer, especially if it’s your first time owning a dog, is CRITICAL. Are you willing to hire/work with a dog trainer?
Commands like “sit” are just the beginning.
Weimaraners need to be socialized. Actually, this is true for all dogs, and Weimaraners are no exception. Well-socialized puppies usually develop into safer, more relaxed and enjoyable pet dogs. This is because they’re more comfortable in a wider variety of situations than poorly socialized dogs, so they’re less likely to behave fearfully or aggressively when faced with something new. The wider the range of experiences you expose your puppy to, the better his/her chances are of being comfortable with a wide variety of situations as an adult. Note: I send my puppies home with a mulit-page socialization checklist. This takes TIME if you commit to doing it well. Are you up for this kind of time commitment?
Weimaraners are slow to mature. Think two, three or even four years. Actually, my girl Britta is FIVE, and sometimes, she still behaves like a puppy. So think about how long you’re willing to live through “the puppy phase.” And really, in a way, they’re puppies all the way to the end. [See also: Weimaraners aren’t your average dog.]
Weimaraners need their own space. I crate train mine and highly encourage everyone else to do the same; the benefits are monumental. My dogs especially enjoy retreating to their crates when I yell at them for doing something bad (…again…) or when I pull out the nail clippers. They hate manicures and know I can’t do their nails if they’re sitting in their crates. [See also: Weimaraners are smart.]
The crate is not a dungeon. It should be a place your dog likes to go to and spend time in, even with the door wide open.
Weimaraners are protective. Weimaraners have a more highly developed protective instinct than other sporting breeds. Mine are no exception. Britta and Friday like to stare out the window and will typically bark at strangers, other dogs, the UPS truck, and the UPS man. Speaking of barking…
“Get off my lawn!!!”
Weimaraners bark. My girls are quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound; I have to be equally quick to stop them. So far, my boy is a silent stalker. (There might be something to the theory that girls are more protective and boys are less weary.) If you’re sensitive to barking, you’ll have to do some training to deter/minimize the behavior; just know they’ll still get a few barks in here and there. Every now and again, my dogs also WHISTLE and WHINE at me, especially when they’re bored. It’s obnoxious. [See also: Weimaraners have personality.] If you work all day and have close neighbors, Weimaraners probably aren’t a good idea.
Weimaraners are hunting dogs. My dogs especially come from a long line of hunting dogs (including some AKC Field Champions and Senior Hunters) and have very strong prey drives. They have no problem going after small dogs, cats, and other little creatures. They also chase off bikers, joggers, and even cars and ATVs; pretty much anything that moves. This is an instinct that cannot be trained out of them, only be managed. I personally don’t trust my dogs alone with small cats (or other dogs).
On occasion, they’ll even bring me prizes. I’ll never forget the weekend I was home alone (husband away on a trip), and Miss Friday brought me not one, not two, not three, but FOUR DEAD BABY ‘POSSUMS. Gutted… on the living room floor. That was fun to clean up. I still get the heebie-jeebies just thinking about it.
Here’s a dog learning how to hunt, for reals.
And here’s a dog, posing with his limit after a day in the woods.
Weimaraners get along with kids; on the condition they’re either raised together, or acclimated with one another the right way (carefully monitored when they first meet). I currently have two foster children: a two year old and a four year old. We have very specific house rules about appropriate and inappropriate kid/dog behaviors. Generally speaking, I don’t let my kids play with my dogs in an unsupervised setting; too many things can go wrong. But overall, everyone in my house gets along together really well.
Miss Britta being really patient with toddlers.
She lets them tickle her, and even seems to like it.
Friday lets the kids lay all over her, and on her bed, too.
And she puts up with being buried under pillows.
Even the puppy’s with the program.
Weimaraners knock kids over. As much as my dogs love my kids, they just can’t help the fact that sometimes, they’ll run around the house and knock them over. Every now and again, the kids will cry about it. The dogs aren’t doing it to be mean; that’s just the reality of having Weims and kids. Is that appropriate in your household?
Two seconds after this shot taken, Boulder knocked my two year old down. Oops.
And then later… he tried to make it up to her by giving her a hug (and turning himself into a scarf). She wasn’t having any of it.
Eventually, it was Miss Britta who sat next to her and made her feel better.
Weimaraners knock other things over, too. While this is especially true for puppies, my big dogs still do this from time to time. They can get excited, rambunctious, and every now and again, they’ll get to something… a stack of books, vase on the coffee table, framed-photo on the console, etc. Sometimes, things break. And every time this happens, I kick myself for leaving something in a place where my dogs can get to it. But that’s my fault. Someday, I’ll learn.
Weimaraners need physical exercise. I can’t stress enough how important this is. While walks around the neighborhood are great for an average dog, Weimaraners need room to run, hard and often. In other words, they need a lot of off-leash opportunities where they can get their calories burned. They might need wireless dog fence for controlling while running. You must have an enclosed space where they can run. And if you don’t, you MUST be committed to giving your dog other opportunities to get their energy out (by taking them to local trails, dog parks, the beach, etc.) Think Energizer Bunny on steroids. How often do you bike, hike, jog, or run? Would you mind taking your dog with you, all the time? Games of fetch are also fun. Note: not all Weimaraners like to fetch; I’m two for three on this one (Miss Friday looks at me like, “no… YOU threw it, YOU go get it. I’m going back to the sofa”). You may have heard the saying; a tired Weim is a happy Weim. This is 100% true.
Weimaraners love to run and get their energy out…
In Weim speak, we call it the zoomies.
They also like to chase other dogs.
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Sometimes, exercise means “full-contact play.”
And sometimes, because Weimaraners are so active, playtime gets a little rough. Mine bark, growl, yelp, and nip/bite (without hurting). To me, it’s normal dog behavior. To someone else, it may be a little too much. Would you be comfortable being around a dog that does that?
Most of them like to play in the water, too.
Steven started swimming at the age of four months.
Weimaraners need mental exercise. Smart dogs also need to exercise their minds. It keeps them happy, engaged, and deters them from being destructive. When I’m at home with my dogs, I hide treats around my house for them to find, fill a Kong or marrow bone with frozen peanut butter for them to work through, and work on short stints of Obedience. Teaching them a few tricks is also a good way to work their brains.
Proof that Weimaraners can learn dog tricks.
Weimaraners chew on things. Chewing isn’t horrible, as long as they’re chewing on the right kinds of things. I don’t mind when my adult dogs get into sticks when we’re out and about. At home, they get the (occasional) rawhide, antler, Nylabone, or Kong. The goal is to keep them busy on the right stuff, so they don’t start destroying the wrong stuff.
Sticks are okay.
Shoes are not.
An important note about chewing; when my dogs get my stuff, it’s not really their fault. It’s actually my fault for leaving things where I shouldn’t be leaving them. However, if I catch my dogs in the act (which doesn’t always happen), I’m quick to tell them that what they have is wrong.
Puppies will get into everything. That’s just how it works. So think about whether or not you’re okay knowing that despite your best efforts, there will be some losses.
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Some more things I’ve learned about having Weimaraners.
If you run a tight ship, the following may not apply to you… but this is how it works in my house:
Weimaraners have no respect for personal space. But in their defense, I let them get away it; our “no sofa” rule went out the window years ago… and the “no dogs in the bed” rule was tossed shortly after. Besides, I LOVE that my dogs love being with me, so I’m all good with that. If this isn’t your thing, you can probably set a few boundaries [see also: Weimaraners need training] to keep it in check.
If I get up for one second, this is what my side of the bed looks when I get back.
Sometimes, they don’t even respect each other’s personal spaces.
Weimaraners are crafty. My dogs aren’t asshats on purpose, but sometimes, somebody (Miss Friday) will suck on the corner of her bed until it makes a hole, and then someone else (sister Britta) will step in to shake all the insides out. It happens quite fast, and turns my living room into a winter wonderland. This is totally avoidable for those of you who choose to forego dog beds.
It only takes a second… Especially when it involves a pillow and no supervision.
Weimaraners are thieves. They’re big enough dogs that they can easily reach the coffee table, the dining table, and most importantly, the kitchen counter. Mine have mastered the art of counter-surfing and won’t hesitate to take something when I’m not looking. If they’re feeling especially snotty, they’ll even do it right in front of me.
To be fair, this photo was staged. But you get the point.
But this one was real… they really did eat my entire batch of chocolate chip cookies. The good news: An occasional dose of chocolate in small batches isn’t enough to wreck them.
Weimaraners are beggars. In the case I’m actually sitting with my breakfast, my dogs won’t hesitate to give me the look. Pity me… I’m hungry… I want some too. [See also: Weimaraners have no respect for personal space.]
This also illustrates the following: Weimaraners don’t like to be by themselves.
…not kidding… it can be a little creepy to have eyes following your every move…
…even the puppy learned at a young age what the protocol is…
Weimaraners mess up the house. Before dogs (and kids), our house was actually nice. Nowadays, it’s decorated in nose art and scratch marks. The nose art, we can clean with a spray of Windex (which we do really, really fast when we’re expecting people). The scratches on the door… just add to the “rustic charm” that is our house. If you choose not to train your dogs from jumping on the doors and pawing when they want to be let in, are you okay with your house looking like this? Neat freaks need not apply.
Nose art on the back patio doors. Notice how high they go up. That’s because Weimaraners CAN and WILL jump.
Here’s another look at one our backyard doors. Scratches and mud stains galore.
Weimaraners get banged up. Active dogs have a knack for getting bumped, bruised, scraped, cut-up, and otherwise; that’s reality. I have a budget set aside for vet visits to get my dogs “repaired” on an as-needed basis. It happens a few times a year. This also brings up the point: Weimaraners aren’t cheap. If finances are tight enough that you don’t have a budget for “unforeseen expenses,” think twice about getting a Weimaraner.
Boulder Man on the way home from having his nose stitched up at the vet. Bonus points for sitting in the kid’s car seat. #safetyfirst
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On the upside…
Weimaraners don’t need a lot of grooming. Monthly visits to the groomers? Not required!!! I also rarely bathe my dogs; they only get hosed off when they step into poop or swim in the ocean. Their nails, however, are the one thing I’m fanatic about. I keep them trimmed, religiously. It’s better for their toes, and better for my wooden floors. Note: My dogs HATE it when I trim their nails… but I do it anyway.
Miss Friday with her manicure.
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Things that happen to Weimaraner owners.
Weimaraner owners are a special breed of people, too. If you decide to get one, here are some things that may happen to you:
You decide you want your dog around all the time, too. So you start to go places where dogs are welcome. This is us at a dog friendly winery in Temecula, CA.
Sometimes, taking them places backfires. Here are my dogs LAUGHING at me right after they LOCKED ME OUT of my week-long rental cabin up in the mountains. I stood outside, barefoot, with my phone, while my husband drove to town to get the backup keys from the rental office.
(And then when they’re not looking… I retaliate. Note: I always get the last laugh.) [See also: Weimaraner owners are crafty, too.]
You start making them homemade treats… and then go out of your way to make them Weimaraner-shaped.
In extreme circumstances, you’ll wake up one day to find that your purse matches your dog. And you’re actually proud of that. #grayforlife
When you see your dogs doing cute things, like synchronizing movements, you grab your phone to take a picture.
…and then you realize that you take a lot of pictures, because they do these silly things, a lot. #identicalfeet
You think it’s really cute when they “nook.” Nooking is a Weimaraner-specific character trait where they knead and suck on their beds and stuffies. (That’s Friday, nooking on the right.)
You start making travel/vacation plans around your dogs. This is me and Britta… about 1,000 miles away from home. Hiking… in the middle of NOWHERE… because Britta likes to get out, and who am I to deny her?
You start to wonder if they’re people in dog suits. Seriously, what other dogs sleep like this? By the way, this is what I see when I open my eyes every morning. It doesn’t get any sweeter than this, people. (!!!)
You take up the art of photography just so you can memorialize how beautiful they are.
Weimaraner on the move.
One last note. I love these dogs, and I can’t imagine living my life without them. If you’re brave enough to start the journey, I wish you much love and joy, too.
My boy, my heart, my love.
– Kim/Barrett Weimaraners
Great description of all their traits! I had thought about the breed after following many a Weim on IG, but as you’ve noted, they don’t seem a good match with kitties. Thanks for the tips and terrific new website!
Hey Marianne! Thanks so much for dropping by and leaving a note! In actuality, some of them are actually okay with kitties… but not “mine.” Mine are pyschos. I’m sure that with a heck of a lot of training, one might be able to get the Weims and kitties to co-exist… but that’s risky, and I wouldn’t recommend it. See ya on IG! 🙂
The best way to get kitties and dogs together is either; start both as little ones growing up together or adult dog with a kitten (they seem to know that it’s a baby) or adult cat that will learn to tolerate a puppy. We have used all of the above mentioned and they seem to do fine. That doesn’t mean that occasionally the dogs don’t try to run the cats in the yard, but if the cat wants to stay they just hunker down and the dog blows by.
I lost my Weim to cancer at 3 1/2 years old. However, I can say he loved kittens. I fostered a litter of 4 kittens and he would lick them and follow them around all the time. It was pretty amazing. He was so cautious to step around them and would lay down far away to watch them. If one started walking away from the group, he would push it back with his nose with the rest of the group. He did not like little kids though…go figure.
This is such a great article! We got our Weim as a puppy (Emma), she is 6 months now and we have an adult cat. Emma does okay when she is relaxing but if it’s play time she chases and barks at the cat, he basically hates her but does not back down.. I’m hoping they become best friends. Only time will tell. It’s great to know it could happen though… Emma also seems to be okay with my niece who is 2 years old. In fact when my niece is over, Emma follows her everywhere. However, I would not leave them alone together.. Emma is too hyper for now., but we love her so much!
My 3 1/2 year old Weimaraner, Millie, is dying of cancer and I’m devastated. I’d like to know what yours died of… what I need to expect. I feel like I’m losing a child.
Time for another Weim
I have a one year old male Weim named Gannon who lives in a house with 3 kitties. We brought him home when he was 8 weeks old and immediately started working with him and his behaviors around the kitties. They are all BFF’s for the most part and other than the random chasing through the house when they run right past him he is really good with them. One of the cats, Oliver actually sleeps in his bed (crate) with him and I’ve caught him multiple times giving Gannon a bath on his head. They can definitely get along, it just takes a lot of time and patience. (:
My angel Weim was horrible with cats, she absolutely hated them, Greta was great with small dogs and even a chick we had named Pompom but not cats; as life would have it , a stray cat left four kitties at my house right after Greta’s passing and I took two in , since then I have opened our home to a bouncy (I meant crazy) weim pup we named Agatha and she’s doing beautifully with the cats. I don’t leave them unsupervised (she’s a hunting dog for goodness sake) but they all seem to “get along” rather famously.
I have two weims who are fine with kitties. . . both rescues. One cat and one weim actually sleep together when they can. So cute!
My dog Pilatus, aka Pilly, was around kitties from the day we brought him home. He has never had an issue with them, even new ones he experienced when he was older. Just be cautious bringing a mature dog around cats for the first time. I would highly recommend getting a weim from a rescue if possible. Too many people get these dogs without doing their due diligence. There are many weims that need their forever homes because of this.
Have a 13 year old and a 4 year old. Can’t imagine life without a Weim but there are none here in Trinidad where we live (just a handful including my 2) and Florida Weim rescue won’t let any out of state adoptions happen – wish it were different and that I could adopt from Florida
Our BIG long-haired boy Max came home to a petite adult cat….she would never scratch him (it would have been easier) but had him totally under control….picture him crying on the stairs as she wouldn’t let him up by sitting at the top….every once and a while he would slip and pounce near her as if just discovering a new cat…..as she got older and frailer he got gentler (a real feat as he is set on hurtle most days), when she was gone he actually looked around for her and moped for a few days….so in our experience he is ok with a cat he knew….but the cats outside, or the bunnies…..entirely different story….
I have a 4 yr old weimaraner name gunner who loves his cat brother, it just took a few days and patience. People are so quick to judge this breed and assume they don’t get alone with other animals, give them a chance and you absolutely have to treat a weimaraner as a family member or there not content and they won’t truly love you back . There the most honest fun loving dog out there and all they want is to be with you and loved. I have gunner and a yellow lab and two cats and there one big happy family life without gunner would be so boring because he can sure get into some mischief and I love it. He’s great wi th our kids he plays tag with them, hide and go seek ball and always licus the spoon lol and I garuntee you nobody would hurt our kids when gunner was within a hundred yards from them he’s very protective of his family weimaraner dogs are so special. We’re very blessed he’s part of our family
I introduced my 9 year old Weimaraner who got scratched in the eye by a cat as a puppy to my husbands 3 cats. At first we had to separate, then one day they all were sitting together waiting for treats. My Weimaraner was smart enough to figure out to be inside all the time he had to get along with the cats. He was such a GREAT Weimaraner, laid and slept with the cats. He would even protect them from bully cats in the neighborhood.
My Weimaraner LOVES kittens 😊
My girl has lived with a kitty and a bunny. I put both under my arm (sorry if that is gross) then wrapped them in a towel and held each for her to smell. response: ‘If it’s ok with you, it’s ok with me. ” I’m proud of her.
I have a wiemer male about 4 months acquired miss Sophie our kitty as a new born within days apart he what I consider nips at her she loves it she nips and plays back. Should I be concerned that he later will try to actually eat her? They play and sleep and love on each other everyday . I can’t see him doing that to her but he is still just a puppy. After reading all this I’m now a bit concerned
I’m on my 3rd Weim. I also have 2 cats. My oldest cat rescued me when I had 2 Weims and I do believe he thinks he’s a Weim. My younger one was rescued as I was waiting for my pup to arrive. He’s a bit skiddish when Dexter chases him but will cuddle with him on his terms. All 3 have the run of the house and there are escape areas for the cats to retreat to if they want!
Two of my Weims have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. They really are just as your story portrayes them to be. The best of the best♡
I figured out I had to spell things out so mine didn’t get too excited too… She loves ice but now she even recognizes when u spell I… C… E and gets excited and heads to the fridge. She’s also conceited because if she hears u say “she” she automatically thinks you’re talking about her. No lie. They’re brilliant.
Good article. I do not have a ‘typical’ Weimy so he is not super over the top but does understand complete sentences, lay on everything, and bring the most joy to me in my life. He makes me smile and laugh every day. I am wondering about the meanings behind their ear shapes and movements. I think I know what they mean but would like to hear others. When Riley is trying to get me up and is standing over me and I’m talking to him and laughing, his ears ripple. When a favourite person comes over, they twist out. It’s fascinating!
Everything you described was our baby maggie mae to a t. We love her more every day. Thanks for putting it in to words.
Hi I lost my 10 year old wiemerana leana a few weeks ago I missed her so my daughter bought my a puppy name is Bella a real handfull but now 18 weeks nearly house trained walks runs and trots and recoil to whistle I hope she carry’s on but two hands well chewed and scratched but look forward to many years of fun and adventure
I’ve had Weimaraners and kitties together for more than 30 years and haven’t ever had a spat between them or any injuries. My newest dog, a 16 month old male, is just a little shy of his 2 kitty sister’s who are not quite a year old. I often read Weims and cats are not a good match but I definitely haven’t experienced it.
I have 3 weims and they get along great with my cats. In fact I have to make sure I don’t enclosed them with the dogs at night because the cats sneak in their crates to sleep with them.
My weimaraner Bree is nuts! She takes over our bed at night. She plays all day and nite with a mini Schnauzer. Everytime I take my shoes off she puts them away!! (Of course a treat is given) Bree is our second weimaraner, our last one past away at age 14. This one is now 2 1/2. She is very, very Protective, I cant stress that enough. No one will e dr get in the house or at us. My biggest concern is Bree has separation anxiety BAD! Actually REAL BAD! She goes nuts! Scratches the door, killed one door already. I really want to get another weimaraner puppy but I dont know if Bree will let another one in.
Your thoughts,?
Hi Kathy,
Based on what you’ve shared so far, I’d hold back on adding another Weimaraner to the family until Bree grows up a bit. If you add a puppy now and Bree teaches it all of her “special tricks,” you’ll have the same problem… x 2 dogs. Good luck, however you proceed!!!
– Kim
My Weimy Bud was a rescue at six months old. We bonded as soon as we met. He was raised with three cats he loved every body I’m trying to get another one had to get one Aound six months old I will never forget my boy Bud
I got my Weimaraner, Luna, and Bengal cat, Niko, at the same time as babies… so they grew up together. Honestly, they loved each other from day one. My Weim would carry my kitty around in her mouth by the scruff of his neck as if the kitty was her baby. As they grew up, they were inseparable… the cat would bathe the dog every morning and every night in bed, and periodically throughout the day. If my Weim felt like she wasn’t getting enough attention from me, she would nudge the cat with her nose to bath her, and the cat would happily do so. They would also horse around with each other, and on occasion, it would get a little rough… but my Bengal could more than handle himself and my Weim was always seemingly mindful of the size differential. Sometimes one of them would want some space after one of their occasional rounds of rough play… but it wouldn’t be long before I would find them cuddled up together. It was true love between my Weim and cat. My Weim was always great with smaller dogs and cats… she knew she was bigger than them and was always very gentle. Also, my Weim was Amazing with babies and children. She looked after my daughter as if she was her own baby… she wanted to be near her at all times, she would lay next to the tub when it was bath time, and as my daughter grew older, my Weim put up with pretty much everything… from being dressed up with wigs, hats, and dresses… to sitting perfectly still while my daughter painted her nails, to sitting inside her Barbie Dream House or actually sitting in a chair for tea time… interesting fact… weims actually sit in chairs, couches, steps, etc like people do. When my daughter was a toddler, if she got too close to the edge of the bed, my Weim would pull her away from the edge. They are truly amazing dogs… and are so human-like you almost forget that they are dogs.
I laughed hysterically at the scarf weim picture! That is just adorable! This made me miss so many things about my baby boy, someday God will bring another baby boy into my life, until then… thanks for sharing your memories #laughingandcrying
I was quite lucky to come across your post and am very glad to see we aren’t the only ones who live life with the psychotic yet wonderful dogs that are Weimaraners. After nearly 14 years with our lovely girl we sadly had to say goodbye but now have once again started the wonderful journey with our new puppy. Luckily for us our Persian cat thinks quite highly of himself and made his position known to our puppy from the word go. Instead when it’s dinner time he joins the dogs in the kitchen and rubs himself on our Weim and Duxies, a full member of the pack. And if anyone ever doubted that Weimaraners were intelligent dogs they should see how our puppy plays with the Duxies in order to avoid hurting their backs. What a wonderful breed they are. But, as you stated, unbelievably active and, if you take your eyes off them, sneaky. I guess that’s why we love them so much.
Kim, you write with a flair. I hope the Weimaraner Club of America uses this description of Living with Weims on their website. It completely describes living with a Weim and I hope people really take it to thought so they don’t get one and then later abandon it for doing Weim things. The only thing I would add is that they are incredibly quiet for such a large dog and that they like to follow their noses off of the property even it they have been boundary trained. You have to stay one step ahead of these dogs. Our Weim even learned to “use a tool” He would go to his toy box and pick a bone, place it on the carpet and then roll over the top of it to scratch his back and then trot off.
I have enjoyed reading your article on wimeran puppies,I’ve learned a lot about the things & noises my black 8 month old wimeran does lol.His name is Jake ,my husband named him from the song Feed Jake.I can’t imagine life without him.the only problem I have with him is he doesn’t like his picture taken lol.
I’m on my second Weim in 7 years (lost Jack at age 5 to cancer
Such a wonderful description of weimaraners. It gave me a good chuckle. All weims are so much alike. We had 2, but lost one last month at the age of 11. It was truly devastating. Best breed ever as far as I’m concerned. 🙂
Out first weim has just turned 1, and has done pretty much everything you mentioned, apart from stealing food. He is very well disciplined with food, and he knows he always get my last mouthful, as long as it isn’t a food which is bad for him, but the guilt I feel whilst eating is unbearable sometime, especially when he rests his head on my lap, and those pitiful eyes! Haha!! We can’t wait to get him a little buddy, maybe later this year! Also, you’re so right when you say, Weims aren’t for everyone, but for me, it’s a Weimaraner, or nothing!
I just sent this to my husband to read (we have two Weims) and he said – “It sounds like you wrote this!! This is our life!” And I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Weims have such a way of getting into your heart. Nice to see them with your little ones as we are beginning to think about children in our future 🙂
We got a new kitten when our Weim was around a year and a half old. It only took a few weeks (Grayson couldn’t get out of the kitty’s personal space), but once they figured out that they were not a threat to each other, it was fine. They LOVE to cuddle and sometimes play chase around the house!
I loved this. When I had a springer I didn’t sit down and read about springers.. Weims are so special. I do have to say, they catch on to the SPELLING of exciting words and at that point you’re left with charades. And that’s just embarrassing
LOVE IT! I always tell people weims are like having a teenager and toddler in one body on purpose!! I had a 9 yr old girl, she past…now have a 5 month old blue weim. So far my weims have been good with my free range chickens, our loose rabbits, cat and goats…Great with the kids! WONDERFUL camping, as long as not left in the trailer when awake!! ( A bit of barking) Some doors have marks, good thing we went with rustic decor! JUST LOVE THE BREED!!
Oh how I have loved reading through ‘Life with Weimaraners’….. it is 100% my life. My Weimaraner, Saffi, is everything you say your article and more. She is now nine and a half and when I first got her, I was lucky enough to be given her at five months, I went to obedience class with her…..sadly the two trainers made it very clear they did not like the breed and so I undertook to do all her training myself and she was totally responsive all that I tried to teach her. Each day I rise at 5.30am and take her out for an hour and a half and then I shower whilst she rests, yes on my bed, then we breakfast together. I continue to go through training with her every couple of days as a means of fun, I hide treats for her, play silly games with her and just totally adore her. Each weekend we take off together for a fun day out where she can run freely and just enjoy, she never runs far from me often coming back to check I am there and then taking off again …. so beautiful to watch a Weimaraner running freely with ears splayed out to the side. She is good with children, always has been, and good with other dogs although does not like small yappy ones. During the last twelve months we were joined by Sniffer the Beagle (my late grandson’s dog) who Saffi has mingled with since Sniffer was a puppy and going through the same training….they rub along nicely together. There is not much more that I can say about my Saffi just that we have great fun together and the love is obvious between us……love, loyalty, companionship and I cannot imagine ever being without her…..I Love Saffi and the breed.
I’m sorry but those dog trainers must not of liked the breed because they knew that the breed would outsmart them. There so incrediblysmart which is why there rumored to have almost human brains
So I was looking on google for something or other about weimaraners and clicked on your website. This is a gem. I felt like I was reading something about my weim. He’s 6 months and a handful. I want to congratulate you on this excellent website and look forward to reading every section. It also makes me want to get another puppy for my buddy King to play with. Thanks again and goood luck!
The only thing I can see that was left out is the Weimaraner snore and they snore loudly. To love a Weimaraner you must be able to sleep with someone who snores and on occasion drools too. I learned to live with ear plugs.
Just wanted you to know that I LOVED your thoughts on “Life with Weimaraners”! It is 100% our life and 100% spot-on!! We currently have 3 Weims and have 2 others in our lives. I can not imagine life without them. They bring us such joy and love!!!
I love this page!!! Laughed my heart out while reading your articles. Just got a girl weim two months ago, she’s 1 year old now, and oh, yeah, she’s a handful :). A real piece of work. They don’t call ’em bitches for nothing :))).
But, oh, do I adore her… Such a special breed. Can’t imagine my life without a weim anymore…
I LOVED your article ! We have two weimies – Winston and Miss Emma – both rescues, and every bit as loving, goofy, tenacious, sneaky, sweet and totally adorable as you described. They acclimated well to our two adult kitties – both Siamese – who basically made it clear from the start that they were in charge.
I adore them. I am a weimie mom, and will forever be a weimie mom.
Hi Karen, thanks for the message! I took in two feral kittens this year (found them living in my backyard), and it’s VERY CLEAR that the kitties are in charge at my house. 🙂 – Kim
Thank you so much for this information about the weims, we just got a tan year and a half old boy and he is so cute hia name ia Rocco but he is breaking the rules. We have a 4 year old husky Aussie mix names Molly and we got Rocco cause we thought it would be good for the family and for Molly so that she could have a buddy a while in the back yard and playing and things. Well it’s only the 2nd day but they are not getting along so well, but I know it’s going to.take time but my question is do.weims get along with other breeds of dogs they are both med sized dog both young and active and full of love and life. I am a stay at home mommy of 2 year old twins and a 9 month old and the dogs are great with the kids it’s just the other dog I’m worried about. .? I am very active with them they have a big back yard to run ans play and we go on at least one to two walks a day with the dogs and kids, Thanks so much ♡ any advice will help oh and the weim peeled in the house twice they said she was house trained but we got her from the human society so the don’t know much about him, so how do I do that with a older weim not a puppy ..?
Hi Oriel! Thanks for reaching out. Congratulations on the addition of Rocco! I agree that in any ‘transition’ of familiy dynamics, like adding a new dog, there is an adjustment period. Training and patience will go a long way. Since I don’t know Rocco, it’s hard for me to provide much help. Since you got him from the local humane society, they likely don’t have much history on him, either! The best thing to do is to reach out to the local Weimaraner Rescue organizations to where you are, explain to them what you told me, and ask if they have any volunteers who would be willing to meet you and Rocco to help him adjust in his new home. The reason is: rescue organizations are usually run by folks who are very experienced with Weimaraners, so they’d be your best bet at finding a solution. Also, I will add that dogs are like people; they come in all sorts of personalities, and sometimes, two dogs who are put together (like Rocco and Molly) just don’t ‘jive.” And some dogs are more social than others. (And some dogs don’t care for other dogs at all!) Did Molly come to the humane society with you so you could introduce the two of them before you committed to taking Rocco home? It’s possible that over time, they’ll warm up to one another. Only time will tell. Please check back in and keep me posted on what happens! You can also email me directly at trailingfridat [at] gmail [dot] com, anytime. Happy to help. Cheers! – Kim
I was thinking about getting a Weimaraner mix but was unsure of how she would respond to being a pen all day while I was work (it would only be a couple of days) and how they would respond to other people coming and letting her out for a little while. What do you think?
Hi Lindsey! Thanks for the inquiry. Every dog is different, and it’s hard to know how this particular dog would behave without knowing her, her socialization level, her comfort level with strangers, etc. I would recommend establishing a relationship with the person you’re getting the dog from and asking them for their input. Good luck!!! – Kim
The best description of Weims ever! We’ve lived with them for 30 years and never want to be without one, even after one of the Weims broke my leg. In our house we have Weim-specific lexicons: Weimarize the house, Weim-me? (Why me?), Weisenheimer and Fartenheimer. They do have digestive challenges.
I just came across your website. You’ve nailed the life of a Weim to a T. As I write this I am sitting here with Baxter. Our Weim for the past 14 years! He is doing better than okay however declining. My heart is just breaking. Thanks for the smile.
We have a 1 year old wiem..she just started nooking. We have had the heart to get rid of her puppy bed since she carries it around with her all over the house, but now she nooks with it! She never did this as a puppy, that I saw. Will this keep up their entire life or will they grow out of it? Thanks!!!
I believe that once they’re a nooker, they’re always a nooker! At least, that’s how it works in my house. 🙂
We have a six year old Weimaraner, Shadow. We also have four cats, three birds, and two rats. Our Weim is AMAZING with all of them. He played well with the cats when they were kittens and still cuddles with the youngest. He generally ignores the birds, even when they are flying around the house and land on or near him. The rats crawl on him when they are out of their cage. Of course, like all Weims, he’s a needy, stubborn, gluttonous counter-surfer. His supervillain name would be Doctor Destructo. But I wouldn’t trade him for anything. Am I the only one with a Weim that moos like a cow?
Hi , I to have a weim, she is 6yrs also. From all the comments I have read, mine must be exceptionally different. She is very lay back. One of the very best dogs you would love to have. Never destroyed anything in the house, never took something off of the counters. Sleeps with me. Loves people children and dogs.
Hates the crate, hates water, won’t give me any game she gets until it’s dead. She is my third one and I don’t wa t to ever be with out her. Love her so much. For me they are the best.
I loved your post! I’ve enjoyed the company of Wiems for over 30 years now…. I also can’t imagine my life without a Wiem in it!! They are one of the most loving dogs with the most character. Funny how everyone I’ve had is so much alike. Couldn’t ask for a better companion!
OMG!! I loved this article so much and everything you described is exactly what I am going through right now with my 18 Wk old pup. As annoying as he is sometimes I couldn’t imagine living with out him. He has bought so much joy to my home. Thanks for the information also.
I loved this post
Made my heart go flippity flop at how much I love my Weimaraner while reading this and OMG I’ve just started with the baking treats a few months ago!
I cannot express my delight and sadness at reading your wonderful words. We lost out beloved Scooby after ten years just 8 weeks ago. The gap in our lives is enormous. Our two kids have grown up with him and are missing their best friend. You have made us laugh as we recall many mirroring stories to yours. I thank you for reminding us of the special bond and hold this breed have on your heart. We are hoping to get two puppies later in the year once we have fully grieved for Scooby, that dog in a million.
Just read your article and it made me smile. We shared our home, or should I say shared our Weimaraner’s home for 12 years. So many memories. She was a character and demonstrated every trait you describe. The sofa isn’t the same without her long gangly legs. Having her as our friend enhanced our lives so much.
Thanks for reminding me of happy days
Just loved your article! How true it is! My husband and I were unable to have kids and now we have 2 (weimies anyway) a male and female and we love them to pieces and then some. They are siblings and were surrendered by their breeder to a weim rescue when they were 4. We adopted them when we lost our last dog to cancer. They are our whole lives and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Shomba is the female, she is the boss and Simba is her brother, he is the brains of the operation and too smart for his own good. We had to put child proof locks on our cabinets because they steal treats when we are at work and Simba now knows how to open the gate to let himself out of the yard. They have scratched our doors and ripped up the carpet because they got mad at us for closing the bedroom door…oh well that’s life with a weimie!! I’ll take it every day!!
I really enjoyed reading your post and as the owner of two Weims can identify with everything you have written. My partner and I work for a Weimaraner Rescue and will be directing people to your site, especially the potential first time owners. However we have come across people who have previously owned a Weim who actually didn’t fit the mould and are staggered when they take on a dog who shows all the triats of a typical Weimaraner.
Thanks for the kind words, Annette! Happy to help those new Weim owners. 🙂 – Kim
This is lovely and SPOT ON! I am only an owner less than a year but this speaks to me on so many levels – as my wiem sleeps on my feet under my desk while I type. Much respect to you!
Hi, great read. I have a 10 month old Weim and already she shows all of the characteristics that you wrote about lol. I just had a Question my girl bites and bites a lot she associates butting with excitement but doesn’t realize it hurts us, do you have any tips? And did you ever hear about this with Weims?
Yes! I’ll shoot you an email. 🙂
Since having breast cancer I realized that my strength will not fully come back and we’ll have to find a new good home for my beautiful Abby Rose a 15 month old Weimaraner who I’m totally in love with. She is too physically strong for me to handle her should she see something on our walk. She loves running for board with all the big dogs at our new dog park near our home. She has been my greatest joy and my greatest challenge. Hope to find a beautiful family for her who has the strength and time to give her the life she deserves. Your description of a dog owner of this breed is exactly right on. Our previous one Runner was 11 years old when he passed 2 years this August. Leopold was the love of my life and will always hold a spot in my heart. We received a be at 8 weeks 15 months ago and fell head over heels in love with her. It is true that she is a velcro dog and is very strong-willed. It is one of the things that I love about her. But knowing that I am unable to keep her safe as well as myself prompts me to find the very best home for her. We have taken her to two trainings and she does very well at the commands. She is a loving and protective dog of our family. We also have a rescue Kitty who grew up with Leopold and is very well aware of the talent these dogs hold. She plays with Abby well and when she’s had enough she runs to her hiding place on top of her tree. Mind you she’s only about 9 pounds and Abby is a very big girl at approximately 88 pound. I will miss her everyday. We have contacted a rescue organization in Southern California who says they have a wonderful family for her. I did write you earlier requesting information on getting a trainer that had worked with this breed. So many of the trainers have never worked with this large breed and frankly do not understand their natural talents and nature. Your dogs are beautiful and I always enjoy reading about your adventures. God bless you and your dogs Carol 909 993 3220.
Since having breast cancer I realized that my strength will not fully come back and we’ll have to find a new good home for my beautiful Abby Rose a 15 month old Weimaraner who I’m totally in love with. She is too physically strong for me to handle her should she see something on our walk. She loves running with all the big dogs at our new dog park near our home. She has been my greatest joy and my greatest challenge. Hope to find a beautiful family for her who has the strength and time to give her the life she deserves. Your description of a dog owner of this breed is exactly right on. Our previous weim Leoplod was 11 years old when he passed 2 years this August. Leopold was the love of my life and will always hold a spot in my heart. We received a be at 8 weeks 15 months ago and fell head over heels in love with her. It is true that she is a velcro dog and is very strong-willed. It is one of the things that I love about her. But knowing that I am unable to keep her safe as well as myself prompts me to find the very best home for her. We have taken her to two trainings and she does very well at the commands. She is a loving and protective dog of our family. We also have a rescue Kitty bengel Lexus who grew up with Leopold and is very well aware of the talent these dogs hold. She plays with Abby well and when she’s had enough play she runs to her hiding place on top of her tree. Mind you she’s only about 9 pounds and Abby is a very big girl at approximately 88 pound. I will miss her everyday. We have contacted a rescue organization in Southern California who says they have a wonderful family for her. I did write you earlier requesting information on getting a trainer that had worked with this breed. So many of the trainers have never worked with this large breed Weimaraner and frankly do not understand their natural talents and nature. Your dogs are beautiful and I always enjoy reading about your adventures. God bless you and your dogs Carol 909 993 3220.
Hi Carol, thank you so much for sharing your story. Abbey will be in great hands through rescue. May you continue to stay healthy so that you can enjoy retirement and spend your days in the great outdoors! Xoxo
We have shared our lives with Weims since 1973. Right now we have 3 1/2 (yes, the 1/2 is a half Weim that was at the local shelter. Two are regular gray ghosts and the fourth is a 12 year old blue. Each one has a distinct personality. One loves pickles, one loves pillows, one moans in bed the fourth just steals anything. I had one take a bottle of Snapple, take it on the bed open the cap, which is no easy task,you have to push and turn, then drink the entire bottle without spilling a drop. I came home, the bottle was upright in the middle of the bed. I cant imagine life without them. You have them pegged precisely. By the way, we also have 4 cats that sleep with or on top of the Weims
Well we’ve taken the plunge and collect puppy Skipper in a few weeks. Looking forward owning this magnificent breed and enjoying the challenges and experiences he will bring us. Your post confirms everything we’ve been told and more. Can’t wait!
Loved this post, we have a very intelligent and active 10 month old boy called Brechin. He has always been ver playful and friendly with other dogs and wants to play with everyone, recently however as his adolescence has kicked in he is becoming less responsive when they tell him to go away. He goes on big group walks everyday and will try to play with everyone but now if the older dogs give him a wee bark or snap to tell him they don’t want to play he just continues to chase and mouth at them, do you have any tips for how to stop this behaviour? Thanks
I had 3 Weims father mother and daughter, all have pad away. Miss them.
My family and I have shared the love of a weim for 8 years. Your experiences with weims are on the nose with mine! She is currently taking up over half of my bed… Earlier she was trying to bribe some Chick-fil-a from me
I’m currently a full time RVT student, but I am moving out soon to expand my horizons. I am in love with these grey dogs, and I intend on sticking with them. I will be in touch within the next year or so.. hopefully to claim a pup from one of your litters! Your love and devotion to your Weims and family is truly inspiring. I hope your fur children and human children are doing well!
I just want to say thank you. Your website and that article is what I needed. I was just about to find my 11 month old girl a new home, i felt that I was not giving Karma what she needed. But stumbling across this I realized that its not about giving her what she need, it’s more about BEING what she needs. And that will in turn give her everything. We are so closely bonded I could never imagine a life with out her. And yes, you are right when you say this breed is not for everyone. But I couldn’t imagine ever having any other dog. Thank you, you are truly inspirational as are all the others who have posted their stories on the comments. It has helped me tremendously.
The pictures of your daughter in her car seat are why I’m commenting. She is not secured at all and in one picture the straps aren’t even on her arms. This is SO dangerous because in an accident she would fly out of her seat. Chest clip is supposed to be on the CHEST and the straps should be tight enough to where there’s no slack. I hope you see my post and take my advice.
These pictures are great. Your site is beautiful. I have a blue 6 month old puppy and a grey 6 year old. This is our family http://pawesomeprices.com/about/ we have a 6 pack. All are rescues except the puppy.
Until about a year and a half ago, I have never had a dog before in my life. When i finally decided to get one the Weimaraner grabbed my attention. It was love at first sight. Now almost a year and a half later I would not hesitate to get another one! She is truly a pleasure to be around, despite all the attention she requires. They love, and they love hard. They are extremely intelligent and if you are not a strong willed individual willing to lead them, they will make your life difficult.
As well as my girl 1.5y/o Maya knows her boundaries she still tests me regularly, just like a toddler! Daily training is a must. Time and patience will pay off when training. Additionally, the Weim will be happiest off leash!
Question. My 6 month old puppy has been chewing the hair off of his paws=/ and tail. Does anyone have any ideas? I have tried everything. I am now starting to think it is food but we have tried a few types and I am out of ideas. Anyone has any solid food and treat options that their weim doesn’t have any problems with? We have a 6 month old blue male.
Spot on. Every bit of this.
As my Weimareners loved!! sleeping under the blankets, but if someone happened to pass gas our male would get upset and literally suddenly stand up and take the blankets with him to his dog bed on the floor. Once he even growled when my wife passed gas!!!
It seems our male gets hot VERY easily. He is always looking for shade, even when it’s only 70ish…he loves to find water to cool down in, or digs under the porch for cool soil. I’ve never had a dog who seemed to get hot so quick…normal? Advice? We adopted him, 3rd owners, and he’s only 3, so needless to say he has BAD separation anxiety…won’t do a crate, breaks out in no time! He has also become more and more protective, aggressive…advice? Thoughts?
My dog is only part Weimaraner and you still NAILED it!
I love Weimaraners so very much, I worked with a lot of different ones and I also have a 10 year old girl! This article describes them exactly! My girl is still very much a puppy in the way she acts, and can run for hours, or play ball, which has been great. I had my first child when she was 4 and she did great with her and with my son almost two years ago, I think sometimes though she’d rather be an only child.
I loved the description of Weims. Mine is about a year old and it matches all her lovely quirks. I was curious, how do you manage to trims your dogs nails? Mine absolutely hates it and it becomes a huge ordeal. The vet won’t even cut her nails unless she is sedated because she squirms and runs away so much.
My girl hates it to, and will pull her paws away with amazing speed if I attempt it alone. Our vet offers a nail trim service for about $20, but I find it’s easier to get the aid of a friend or family member. One of us holds her in a standing position so she cannot wriggle away, and the other quickly makes the rounds on her nails. When she knows she can’t escape, she pretty much lets it happen (with a look of total defeat in her eyes). If all else fails, the vet always trims them for us when she’s under anesthesia for a teeth cleaning once or twice per year.
I have a Weim and he is 10 months old. He is so hyper and cannot sit still. Everything you had mentioned in the article seems so unrealistic about the dogs. Did you give them extensive training? I have a 2 year old and a 9 year old. The Weim doesn’t do anything to the 9 year old but he does chase after my 2 year old. To some extent it seems like he goes into pray mode and runs after him. Have you ever experienced this? I had my Weim trained in board and spent lots of money for that, yet the weim is very stubborn and doesn’t want to listen. Like he is set in his own mind to do whatever he wants. Can you throw some advice on how to go about this situation? Thanks.
Thankyou so much for your wonderful article, My Penelope is a rescue Pit Bull and Weimaraner.She was rescued from a kill site in Georgia and brought to The Richmond Spca where I got jer she had been abused, had to have part of her tail amputated because it had been damaged.I see so much of her in your description of their character and traits, she is very very smart I cannot say the word walk or dog park if I am not planning to take her that second and she very much always up into my personal space.I am working with a Dog trainer because I of course didn’t have anyway of knowing exactly what breed she was other than the Pit of course. She wants to run after walking,running people and bikes and barks and whines unlike any dog I have ever had I of course cannot imagine my life without and will do whatever I have to do for her to have a wonderful life
Thanks a lot for sharing this incredibly complete information! I am waiting for mine and trying to get to know the breed as much as possible. It was straight honest, clear and adorable.
How do they do with small dogs? I have a small Blue Heeler, and am hoping to get her a weimy brother. A puppy most likely, will the pup grow up to be good with little dogs then? Thanks for the help!
Good writeup. Most people will think you’re exaggerating or just bias, but after 13 years with our furry baby, we found it’s all true. A lot of dogs have personality, but it’s not quite the same. We have a saying with our boy (Raz), and that’s “To know Raz is to love Raz.” That’s not proud parents talking. That’s over a decade of watching it happen to person after person throughout his life. Many who don’t like dogs at all.
The time and energy it takes to raise a weim right is comparable to what it takes to raise a toddler. It’s not the same, of course, but still. When Raz had just turned 1, his exercise routine was a 4-mile run, 10-20 minutes of swimming (fetching balls), at least 1 visit to the dog park (usually morning and evening) and a 20 minute walk and more ball playing at some local baseball fields and then the nightly wrestling and playtime at home. Every. Day.
Around $5k of damages for our homes (locked himself in a bathroom and destroyed everything (twice) to give you an idea). The last year of his life we averaged about $800-1000/month in vet bills and home-made food. They cost money…lots of money.
But I’d do it all again in a heartbeat. They are amazing members of your family, and you’ll realize, like all Weimaraner owners do, that they’re just a breed apart.
I’m a Weimaraner owner of Jake I have him 11 years and he is amazing I always exercise him feed him the best of everything I love him more then the husband😂🐾 my dog when he was a 6 months old while in his crate managed to shimmy his crate over to my couch and chew a hole in it 😩 never yell at them .They never forget .They have huge personality and funny.chow hounds.Major food thieves,bed hogs and Velcro to your ass.Once you have one it will change your life in a beautiful way .I kiss my boy 100 times a day.🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾
I HAVE TWO WEIMYS.ONE WEIMY IS ALMOST 3 AND SHE HAS BEEN SO EASY HER ENTIRE LIFE.SHE IS A COUCH POTATO,HATES EVEN GOING OUTSIDE. NOW I ALSO HAVE A 6 MONTH OLD WEIMY PUP WHO HAS BEEN THE COMPLETE OPPOSITE. SHE HAS CHEWED UP MY COUCH, MY CARPET,MY KITCHEN FLOORING,WINDOW FRAMES YOU NAME IT SHE’S DONE IT. BUT SHE’S NOT HYPER EITHER SHE JUST GETS BORED. BUT THE POINT I’M TRYING TO MAKE IS,IF YOU CAN GET THRU THE PUPPY STAGE,OMG THERE THE BEST OF THE BEST. THERE LITERALLY LIKE HAVING CHILDREN. AND AS FAR AS GOOD WITH KIDS, LORD YES , MINE LET MY GRANDBABY CRAWL OVER THEM, MOST THE TIME THERE SHARING TOYS AND SOMETIMES THEY ALL GET PUT IN TIME OUT LOL. HONESTLY THERE GREAT DOGS.DONT GIVE UP ON THEM,THERE WORTH IT.
After months of research I had almost decided a Weimy was the breed for me . I’ve had German Shepard’s, boxers, Labs, and I just lost my 12yr old American Bully . My dogs have always had the best home a dog can have . We have several acres and a lake . After reading your article I’ve completely changed my mind . I don’t know if you intended it to be overly negative but to me , you make them sound like an uncontrollable breed . I guess I’ll get another Labrador .
Thanks for the note. Agreed! If you can’t find amusement in the typical Weimaraner, this breed is definitely NOT right for you. No hard feelings; not everyone should have them. They especially deserve owners who have a sense of humor. And not every “best” home is the “right” home for a Weim. Best wishes with the Labrador! 🙂
Simply the best dog ever
Our first Weim Ilsa lived to be 16 1/2. We were so heart broken when she passed away we got another one 8 days later. Bella is now 6 and adored by all of us. People comment on how she’s always smiling when we are out for a walk. Loved your article. They are the best dogs!!
Loved it! All these traits fit my Vizsla too! He’s my shadow and I love it.
I got my first Weim (Ace) over 16 years ago. I swore I wouldn’t do it again. I trained him and loved him because I don’t give up on any dog. I received a call from my teenage children one day, upset, frantic, the neighbor’s pit bull got loose and ran after my children in my yard and my Ace scaled the fence and gracefully took the pit bull back to his yard but came back bloody. I told the children to wash him, I was on the way home immediately to take him to an emergency vet. They called back, he had no bite marks on him anywhere. Towards the end, I got in a bad accident and was laid up for months and he was my sanity. After I recovered he passed at the age of 15. I loved him so much I couldn’t get over it. Two months ago I picked up my baby Beau. Love forever.
Loved your article – used to have a Viszla (aka the velco dog) and I see lots of similar traits here! Super high energy/zany, super loving. Looking forward to adopting a Weim.
Love your website and your dogs. We have always had dogs in my family, and I will always have them, can’t even imagine life without dogs. We have 2 weims. We got our first weim 11 years ago (still acts like a puppy) and then a spur of the moment rescue female about 7 years ago. We were at the doggie park one day a few years ago with our first weim (he was still a puppy) and a couple was there with a weim, and they were on their 9th one. She said to me “you are going to find that once you go weimie you never go back” and she was so correct. they are such a precious dog, and we will always have weimies. We might have other dogs too, ie rescues, etc. but will always have weimies in our family.
This is an amazingly accurate account of my own life with my favorite dogs.
I had a male for 12.5 years of pure joy until a stroke took him from me.
My current lady is 14.5 years old and living on love every day. Suffers from seizures but you’d hardly know it as she wakes me each day to start another. Pure sweetness and hugely human as if one of my children.
I’ve read this page so many times – multiple times before getting my two Weims, and another half-dozen times since, when I’m beyond frustrated and feel like I need to “talk” to someone who understands.
I often find myself at wit’s end, having unfortunately moved out of my house and into a third-floor apartment, and breaking up with my partner who used to sponge a lot of their energy and attention.
At one and three years old, they are both my biggest joys as well as my biggest frustrations – this page helps me get through.
Thank you for taking the time to write this article. It has given me understanding and perspective in the really tough moments. Really – thank you.
Dylan
This is a great article about weim traits. I was giggling and smiling the whole time I was reading. We have two weims-mom and son. They are the lights of our lives. I don’t know what I’d do without them. Athena has become my shadow and Slater is my husbands. They are the most loyal, loving, cuddly dogs.