Highly Intelligent and Trainable

Weimaraners are smart and eager to learn, excelling in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.

Loyal and Devoted

They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their loyalty and protective nature.

Excellent for Active Families

Weimaraners are energetic and love outdoor activities, making them ideal for families that enjoy hiking, running, or other active pursuits.

Minimal Grooming Needs

Their short coat is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to keep it looking clean and healthy.

High Energy Levels

Weimaraners require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, which can be challenging for less active households.

Prone to Separation Anxiety

They do not like being left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors if isolated.

Can Be Stubborn

While intelligent, Weimaraners can be independent and require consistent, firm training.

Not Ideal for Apartments

Due to their size and energy levels, Weimaraners are better suited to homes with access to outdoor space.

Exercise Needs

Weimaraners are extremely high-energy dogs that require plenty of physical activity to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy running, hiking, swimming, and playing fetch. Without sufficient exercise, they may become bored and develop destructive behaviors.

Walks

A minimum of two long walks per day, combined with playtime and mental stimulation, is necessary to meet their exercise needs. They also excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and tracking.

Training

Weimaraners are intelligent and eager to please but can be stubborn and independent. Consistent, firm training with positive reinforcement is essential. Early obedience training is key to managing their strong will and preventing unwanted behaviors. They respond well to structured environments that keep their minds and bodies engaged.

Purchase Price

$3,000 - $6,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup

Around $500 - $800 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $1,200 - $1,800 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs.

Grooming

Weimaraners have minimal grooming costs due to their short coat, with annual costs typically around $100 - $200 AUD for brushes and occasional baths.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $600 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $500 - $1,000 AUD per year, with additional expenses for managing potential joint or digestive issues.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 10-14 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $25,000 - $45,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Weimaraners typically stand 58-69 cm (23-27 inches) tall and weigh between 25-40 kg (55-88 lbs), with males being larger than females.

Coat

Weimaraners have a short, smooth coat that is easy to care for. Despite the low grooming needs, they do shed moderately, so regular brushing helps manage shedding.

Colour Options

 The breed standard is silver-gray, but some Weimaraners may have a blue or mouse-gray variation. Their distinctive coloring is one of their most recognizable features.

Temperament

Weimaraners are known for their high energy, intelligence, and loyalty. They are playful and affectionate with their families but can be protective, making them excellent watchdogs. However, they require mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.

Good with Children

Weimaraners can be great with children, especially if raised with them. They are playful and gentle but require supervision with younger children due to their size and energy, as they may accidentally knock them over.

Socialisation

Early socialization is important for Weimaraners to ensure they are comfortable around other dogs, people, and environments. Without proper socialization, they can become territorial or overly protective.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Weimaraners prefer to live indoors with their families but need access to outdoor spaces for exercise and play. They are not suited to being left outside for long periods, as they thrive on human interaction.

Apartment Living

Due to their large size and high energy levels, Weimaraners are not ideal for apartment living. They need plenty of space to run and play, making them better suited to homes with large yards or access to outdoor areas.

Time Alone

Weimaraners do not do well when left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety. They are best suited for homes where someone is present for most of the day or where they have another pet for companionship.

Climate Adaptability

Weimaraners can adapt to various climates but may struggle in extreme heat due to their short coat. In warmer weather, it’s important to provide plenty of water, shade, and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. Their short coat also makes them sensitive to cold, so they may require a dog jacket in colder months.

Common Health Issues

Weimaraners are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain conditions, including hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and avoiding strenuous exercise after meals are important to prevent bloat.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, it’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.

Guarding Ability

Weimaraners are naturally protective and make excellent watchdogs. They are alert and will bark to warn their owners of strangers or unusual activity, though they are generally friendly once introduced to people.

Affectionate Nature

Despite their size and strength, Weimaraners are affectionate dogs that love being close to their families. They enjoy cuddling and often seek out attention from their owners.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Weimaraners are generally social with other dogs, but supervision is recommended in dog parks due to their high energy and strong hunting instincts. Proper socialization from a young age helps ensure positive interactions.