The original Miniature Pinschers were working farm hands. Thanks to their small size and their curious nature, they were able to get into tight places and rid barns of vermin. The Miniature Pinscher has, over the years become a wonderful companion dog.

The Miniature Pinscher is not a smaller version of the much larger Doberman Pinscher. The Miniature Pinscher was in existence a long time before the development of the Doberman. Both may have descended from the German Pinscher, a medium-sized black and tan dog bred to control vermin in the barnyard, but there the relationship ends. The Miniature Pinscher reportedly came from crosses with breeds such as the Dachshund and the Italian Greyhound.

Part of the confusion in origin comes from the word "pinscher," which is another term for "terrier". In German, "pinscher" means "biter" and derives from the dog's habit of jumping on and fiercely biting its quarry.

The breed made its American debut in the 1920's where they were originally shown in the Terrier Group. The Miniature Pinscher Club of America, founded in 1929, wrote its first set of standards in 1935. The standards have been revised several times over the years with the latest revision in 1980.

The Miniature Pinscher is especially valuable as a watchdog, sometimes keener even than a dog twice its size. It is a born show dog, noted for its lively temperament, smartness and pep. The close, slick coat requires scant attention, hence always looks neat and clean. The "Min Pins" fondness for home and master is exceptional.

Miniature Pinschers from the early 1900's

We hope you enjoyed reading about the
history of the Miniature Pinscher.

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