The Small Munsterlander
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The Kleiner Munsterlander, as it is known in Germany, originated in the 15th century as a offspring of the Industrial Revolution. The common man's place in society was elevated which allowed them the opportunity to hunt. Prior to the Industrial Revolution, hunting was only for the wealthy land owners who could afford specialized dogs for the pursuit of specific prey. New breeds were developed that could meet the needs of the new hunting class. Versatile dogs that would point, track and retrieve birds and mammals on land and in water. They would also locate, dispatch and announce wounded big game as well. Thus one dog could do the work of many specialists. Because it was kept in the home, size and temperment were factors. The Small Munsterlander, being one of the older longhaired versatile breeds, was likely used to develop some of the other longhaired breeds of this class. There was at one time two distinct "lines" of the breed. One with a fine body shape and bone structure which resulted in a lighter dog. The other being heavier boned and muscled, resulting in a heavier dog. In North America the heavier body type is more common but females can range from 33lbs. to 45lbs. and the males 40lbs. to 55lbs.
The Small Munsterlander is a one of the newest versatile hunting breeds to gain popularity in the United States. While they are relatively new here in the U.S., they have been around in Germany and Europe since the 13th or 14th century. There are several books on the breed,though they are only available in German at this time.
It is recommended that those interested in puppies should contacta breeder who does hunt testing and hip certification on both parents and their ancestry. You should only consider a puppy from parents that were approved for breeding by the Breed Council of the Small Munsterlander Club of North America, Inc. The occurrence of hip dysplasia and other genetic health disorders are relatively rare in the Small Munsterlander Pointer, buyers should be aware that there are dogs being bred that are producing offspring with hip dysplasia and temperament problems.
The Small Munsterlander Club of North America, Inc. Registry helps to ensure the future of the breed. Breeders that are registering their litters with the Small Munsterlander Club of North America, Inc. are meeting the Club's high standards for the betterment of the breed. These breeders have taken the necessary steps prior to breeding and are breeding only dogs that have been approved for breeding.
These dogs do make incredible housepets, but they are meant to be used for hunting and carry the hunting instinct.
