Small Munsterlander
A German gundog that points, retrieves and tracks, and is expected to do all three well. Smaller than most versatile breeds and just as hard working.
Photo by Ventus, CC BY-SA 3.0
Overview
The Small Munsterlander is a German versatile gundog expected to point, retrieve on land and in water, and track wounded game, which is what German hunters mean by versatile. It is not a scaled down Large Munsterlander but a separate breed with a different history.
It is one of the smaller versatile breeds at forty to sixty pounds, and it is bred almost entirely by people who hunt, which has kept both the working ability and the health in good shape.
Temperament
Affectionate, biddable and closely bonded. Small Munsterlanders are good with children, sociable with other dogs, and they want to be with their families rather than kennelled.
They are sensitive and respond to encouragement rather than pressure. They are also genuinely high drive, and a Small Munsterlander that is not hunted needs an equivalent outlet or it becomes difficult.
Care and grooming
A medium coat with feathering that needs brushing twice a week, with attention to the ears and legs. Moderate shedding.
Hip dysplasia is the main concern and the breed clubs test for it. They are generally sound. Twelve to fourteen years.
Living and exercise
Two hours a day with real work, ideally field work or scent work.
Most breeders will only sell to hunting homes, which limits availability and is also why the breed is in the condition it is.
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