The Pet Atlas

Breed Dogs Sporting

Weimaraner

Silver-gray runner with demanding intensity

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
High
Exercise
High
Mental stimulation
High
Trainability
High
Vocality
Medium
Health sensitivity
High
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Large
Lifespan
10–13 years
Body weight
55–80 lb
Height
23–27 in
Apartment suitability
Not Ideal

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Can keep structure and daily outlets consistent
  • Like a training-first approach and clear routines

Not ideal

  • Have long weekday absences without a plan
  • Prefer minimal daily exercise most weeks

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Intense and athletic, with a strong need for structure and engagement. Many are “busy at baseline” and can get destructive or noisy when bored.

Handling & social style

Often bonds hard to family and struggles with too much separation. Confident routines and practiced calm behaviors make handling much easier.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Athletic, intense, and very attached—often brilliant and driven, but can become anxious or destructive without enough outlet and structure. Many thrive with serious daily routines.

Environment & space

Best for active households with time and space. Smaller homes are challenging unless exercise and training are consistent and substantial.

Daily routine

Running-style exercise plus training and mental work. Many do best when you build impulse control and calm settling into daily life.

Health sensitivities

Deep-chested bloat awareness, joint comfort, and maintaining lean condition are common practical priorities.

Grooming / coat

Easy coat care—low grooming with basic brushing.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Germany

Background

Developed in Germany during the 1800s as a versatile hunting dog, the Weimaraner was originally associated with larger game and later adapted to birds. Selection favored boldness, stamina, and a dog that could stay engaged for long stretches. Many modern Weimaraners still carry that intensity and need for structure. They often thrive with predictable routines, training, and enough exercise to match their engine.