If you’re a person who would like a Doberman, but aren’t in for a big dog, you ought to consider the Miniature Pinscher. The two are similar in every way, but Min-Pins are up to 100 pounds lighter!

While they may look just like a scaled-down Doberman, these dogs aren’t directly related. The Min-Pin developed long before the Doberman; it’s the product of breeding a German Pinscher with a much smaller breed. Even though American Kennel Club deems the Min-Pin breed to be a “˜toy’, they aren’t at all lapdogs. Bred to be a tough, aggressive ratter, the Min-Pin weighs between 8 and 10 pounds and stands 10 to 12 inches high.

Miniature Pinschers are compact and muscular. Their short coats can be any combination of red, black, and brown. The Min-Pins tail is docked (meaning it was developed not to be long and wag-able, but short and stubby). Also, some owners crop their dog’s ears, which is unnecessary, as most will develop upright ears as they mature anyway. A Min-Pin’s soulful eyes are very dark brown; almost black.

Even with their high energy level, these dogs will fare well in apartments if they get a long daily walk. Naturally, the Min Pin will also enjoy the freedom of a fenced yard. These dogs love to roam, and they’ll search high and low for escape routes, so make sure your fence is secure. A Min Pin’s escape could result in a quick tragedy, since they’re too small to be seen from cars.

Miniature Pinschers are genuinely loyal dogs, and completely devoted to their owners. Unfortunately, such loyalty doesn’t extend to young kids – they’re often nippy with glad-handling babies and toddlers. If you’ll frequently have any toddlers around, you should crate your dog while your visitors are over to avoid problems. Also, some Min-Pins are strung a little tight and can become mean towards adults, especially those in uniform, such as mailmen and deliverymen.

While they’re still puppies, they can be stubborn and hard to control. Attend obedience classes with your Min-Pin, and take care to follow up on each command. They’ll excel in agility training, and competition can give them their chance to shine. The Min Pin’s work ethic is strong, and he was bred to take vermin very seriously. If there’s a mouse in the house, your dog will work tirelessly to catch it.

Miniature Pinschers can develop some serious health problems, such as heart or thyroid conditions, or epilepsy. Also, they’re prone to hip dysplasia, which is rare in most small breeds. While Miniature Pinschers don’t consume tons of food, they can be little gluttons. You might need to find a food which controls weight gain to avoid seeing your pup turn into a walking blowfish.

Min Pins don’t need much grooming, but they can have nail problems. Be sure to check your dog frequently and trim them when they get too long.

Granted, Miniature Pinschers aren’t for everyone, but if loyalty in a sleek little package is what you seek, then they’re the dogs for you.