Dog breed · Sporting / Gundog

Weimaraner

The 'grey ghost' — a demanding all-round hunting dog that wants to be with its people constantly.

Large10–13 yearsGermanyNeeds more space

AI-generated editorial illustration of the subject; not a photograph of a specific animal, product or case.

Breed characteristics

Developed at the Weimar court in Germany for hunting large game, later adapted to birds.

Sleek and muscular in shades of mouse-grey with amber or blue-grey eyes.

Two hours daily of running, swimming, scent work or field training.

Minimal coat care; needs a coat in cold weather and firm crate-and-settle training.

Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
Check your routine can support the activity described here: Two hours daily of running, swimming, scent work or field training. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Bloat, Hip dysplasia, Hypertrophic osteodystrophy, Von Willebrand disease, Entropion), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime. Bloat has no screening test: learn its emergency signs and ask about prevention.
Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.

Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.

These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.