Munsterlander, and in the United States the dog became known as the Small Munsterlander name. This is a multitasking hunting dog, and commenced to gain the limelight recently and vigorously not only in the FCI countries but everywhere else. This breed of dog has been working with the German hunters since before the 12th century. Their function was to discover and retrieve birds both from the water and from the land as well. They went as far as hunting boar and deer, beside other games, and sometimes even hunting with falconers. The history says that this breed first showed up precisely in Munster, selected from crossing the German Longhaired Pointers with Wachtelhunds (Longhaired Spaniels). The goal was to breed an outstanding multipurpose dog that could not only point but also track wounded or dead game. The exact forefathers of the breed were never known. Even in the beginning some noblemen making a rudimental registry the little hunter became better known and somewhat taken notice only from the 18th century on. The changes in German laws (as well as in most of
S M A L L M UNSTER L AN D ER G ER M AN Y
European countries) regarding dogs had been altered, and ownership of hunting dogs once forbidden to servants became permitted to own for everybody. The poor peasants of that time needed a dog, not for the “hunting sport” but to help them to feed their family. This was the Golden Era for the hunting dogs badly needed for their abilities not only in the water or the field, as they are easily trained and efficient hunters, but also for protecting and guarding their master’s belongings. The Small Munsterlander do not mind if the hunt takes him from the land into the water and has no problem working tirelessly for hours. This is not a fast moving, but a very resistant breed. This is a capable and agile pointing dog, self-confident and easily adaptable. Although a natural hunter that loves the outside life, they are mild-mannered and good-natured dogs that are very affectionate, making a great family companion. As with every other breed, early training is recommended, and if living in the house - being reckless and full of stamina - the dog needs to be regularly exercised. The smaller stature of the Small Munsterlander Pointer is distinctive among longhaired hunting dogs. A medium sized pointing dog of Spaniel type, this breed is elegant and balanced, and has a distinguished air and clean, flowing lines. In proportion it is just slightly longer than tall, and it has a flat glossy coat of good density and medium length. Males should stand between 20.5–22 in (52–56 cm), and females should stand between 19.75–21.25 in (50.2–54.0 cm) at the withers. The Small Munsterlander has a smooth, flat coat of brown and white or roan, with fringe hair on the tail, front legs, and the thighs of the rear legs. This is an elegant, confident and strong dog. The Small Munsterlanders are intelligent and require adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Small Munsterlanders, like many other German breeds, are
rare BREEDS OF THE WORLD
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Dog News 73