Little Dog, Giant Personality: meet the Min Pin!
Looking back at the history of Min Pins, as they’re fondly called, their lineage was originally developed from a combination of the German Pinscher, the smooth Dachshund, and the Italian Greyhound.
Min Pins were primarily used as ratters. They have loads of energy, tending towards aggression if they don’t get enough exercise so it’s important to factor into your day some form of activity for him or to register with a doggie day care or dog walker to keep him busy during the day. Min Pins dislike being left alone and need to be around human family most of the time. This breed is not recommended for people who spend all day long at work and only get to spend a couple of hours a day at home
Miniature Pinschers are intelligent dogs with great confidence and self-possession. Naturally adventurous with endless enthusiasm, energy and curiosity, Min Pins need the close attention of their owners to prevent them from heading off to explore.
Min Pins are affectionate and love to cuddle with their owners when they aren’t running around the house or garden.
Since they’re so small, they fit themselves easily onto your lap and sneak themselves into your bed! Min Pins are also very protective of their owners and of themselves and their alertness makes them good guard dogs
Because Min Pins are so small and have so little body fat and fur, they get quite cold in the winter and need sweaters or jackets that cover their chest and belly. Regular bathing and grooming is essential to maintain a healthy skin and to keep his smooth fur healthy and shiny.
Min Pins are extremely curious, they will investigate anything and everything and, if they are not watched closely, this can get them into trouble. Think along the lines of having a toddler in the house – you can’t really take your eyes off them for too long! Min Pins are innate hunters, endlessly hunting down objects within reach to chew (bathroom bin contents, stray socks, dish towels and so forth), which can pose a choking risk. Medication is a concern too, because your Min Pin will find and eat pills that have fallen onto the floor and is not above chewing any blister packs within reach either, so you need to be careful that your Min Pin can’t reach things they shouldn’t have – but don’t underestimate the intelligence and determination of this little dog!! Your best bet is to have Min Pin friendly chew toys freely available and keep everything else out of reach.
With appropriate socialisation and if raised with them, Min Pins can get along well with children, and we always recommend a good Puppy School for socialising and for manners.
House training your Miniature Pinscher can be challenging, but your Min Pin will respond well to a routine. It best to put one in place from Day 1, so your Miniature Pinscher knows when to expect food, rest, and potty trips. Be patient – it will improve!
The Min Pin’s lively attitude and dynamic personality make it a great companion for the right home.
There really is a lot to love in this playful, energetic little dog.
