The Miniature Pinscher is as much fun to own as it is to say. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s also nicknamed the ‘Min Pin’. With enormous glossy marbles for eyes that seem to know exactly what you’re thinking, this toy dog walks like it owns the room. It’s a headstrong, proud, smart and tidy little breed – well-suited to apartment living. The Miniature Pinscher is shy around strangers and can get feisty when it meets unknown dogs.
History
Exact originals of the Min Pin are unknown, but experts agree that it’s actually unrelated to the Doberman Pinscher. Likely breeds in its heritage include the Dachshund, German Pinscher and Italian Greyhound.
Health
The Min Pin lives roughly 12-14 years.
Health-wise the Miniature Pinscher gets off lightly, but this breed can be prone to knee, hip, eye and heart problems.
Characteristics
The smart cookie
Can’t wait to teach your dog a trick or two? The Miniature Pinscher will surprise you with its speed and willingness to learn. This breed is always shiny and alert and responds well to training. They also have better than average hearing and are often touted as good little guard dogs. They need a lot of care and attention to thrive, so make sure you have enough time in your life to raise yours to be healthy and happy.
Small Dog Sydrome
As with all smaller breeds, it’s easy to fall into the trap of babying your adorable Min Pin. Beware though – if you let them boss you around, they’ll turn into quite a handful. They can also become aggressive towards other dogs without appropriate training.
Training
Min Pins are inherently smart but can be difficult to train, owing to their headstrong and demanding nature. If you’re considering owning one, you’ll need to make sure you have plenty of time to dedicate to it. Watch out for signs of Small Dog Syndrome.
Housebreaking
Miniature Pinschers aren’t difficult to housebreak by nature. However, as such as small breed, puddles may go overlooked – which means your Min Pin might not learn as fast as it should.
Where to find Min Pins
Miniature Pinscher Groups
Looking for fellow Min Pin enthusiasts to swap stories with? Find a Miniature Pinscher breed group below.
Miniature Pinscher Club of Great Britain
Adopt a Miniature Pinscher
Want to adopt a Miniature Pinscher in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.
Miniature Pinscher Rescue
Breeders
Can’t wait to share your sofa with a Min Pin? Find an approved Miniature Pinscher breeder.
Do you own a Miniature Pinscher?
If you own a Min Pin let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.