Large Munsterlander vs Small Munsterlander: Breed Comparison

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A Small Munsterlander Dog on a Leash
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The Large Munsterlander and Small Munsterlander are both German hunting breeds, but they have some key differences that set them apart. The Large Munsterlander has a thick, water-resistant coat, while the Small Munsterlander has a shorter, smoother coat.

One of the main differences between the two breeds is their size, with the Large Munsterlander weighing between 65-80 pounds and standing 24-28 inches tall, while the Small Munsterlander weighs between 45-60 pounds and stands 20-24 inches tall. The Large Munsterlander is also generally more energetic and requires more exercise.

In terms of temperament, both breeds are known for being friendly and outgoing, but the Large Munsterlander can be more independent and stubborn at times. The Small Munsterlander is often described as more affectionate and eager to please.

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Behaviour

The Munsterlander is a friendly, alert, affectionate and loving companion. They make good pets and get along well with other dogs, cats and animals.

They are highly trainable and have a need to work, which makes them a great fit for active families. Using their natural retrieval instincts is a great way to start training, as they love to carry things in their mouths.

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Munsterlanders are usually fine with strangers in the home if socialised properly. They are happy to be close to people, children and content and quiet in the home.

They need loving, positive training and no harsh words, as they can take advantage if they sense weakness in their trainer. They usually learn quickly and love to please you.

Munsterlanders have massive amounts of energy and need to expel this when out walking. A long walk through woodlands, open fields and dense cover is ideal, and they love nothing better than a muddy puddle or two.

If they don't get enough exercise, they can be destructive in the home. They need to be out and about every day, which makes them a great fit for joggers who enjoy long walks.

The longish coat of the Munsterlander protects it from dense undergrowth when out exploring, but does collect burrs and debris. Brushing daily after a long walk is recommended, and generally every other day is a good maintenance schedule.

Females have a shorter coat than males.

Health and Trainability

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Small Munsterlanders are among the most easily trainable of any pedigree dogs.

Their intelligence, eagerness to please, and amazing memory make them a joy to train. With consistent effort, a Small Munsterlander can learn basic commands from as young as two months of age.

Their trainability also makes them a great competitor in events such as agility and tracking trials, where they can showcase their skills and abilities.

Trainability

Small Munsterlanders are among the most easily trainable of any pedigree dogs. They are known for their intelligence, eagerness to please, and amazing memory, making them a joy to train.

From a young age, Small Munsterlanders can learn basic commands, and with consistent training, they can become very able competitors in events like agility and tracking trials. This is because they are quick learners and thrive on mental stimulation.

The Large Munsterlander is also a quick learner and is highly trainable, requiring a light touch with plenty of positive reinforcement. This makes them a great breed for first-time dog owners who are willing to put in the time and effort.

A German Shorthaired Pointer With a Frisbee
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To keep your Small Munsterlander happy and healthy, it's essential to provide them with plenty of physical and mental exercise. This can include games, training sessions, and long runs, as they can run for hours and get bored if left to their own devices.

Don't leave your Large Munsterlander alone for too long, as they can become destructive and a nuisance to your neighbors if they don't receive enough attention. They need constant training and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Health

Exercise is essential for overall health and can improve trainability. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Aerobic exercise, in particular, has been shown to improve cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the muscles.

Good sleep is crucial for physical recovery and can improve trainability. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help your body repair and rebuild muscle tissue.

German Shorthaired Pointer Running with a Ball on a Field
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Adequate nutrition is also vital for overall health and can support muscle growth and repair. Consuming a balanced diet that includes protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats can help you perform at your best.

Proper hydration is essential for physical performance and can improve trainability. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to stay hydrated and focused.

Reducing stress through techniques like meditation and deep breathing can also improve trainability by helping your body recover from physical activity.

Family and Lifestyle

The Large Munsterlander is renowned for family friendliness, though consistent socialization and training are crucial for a happy and well-adjusted dog.

With the right care, they'll give back an abundance of love and fun times.

Family-Friendly Dogs

Some breeds are naturally better suited for families with kids, and the Large Munsterlander is one of them.

They're renowned for family friendliness, but it's up to the family to make sure consistent socialization and training are continued after the puppy or dog leaves the breeder or shelter.

If you're willing to put in the effort, a Large Munsterlander will give back an abundance of love and fun times.

Available in Two Sizes

A Hunter with a Hunting Dog
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If you're considering bringing a Munsterlander into your family, you might be wondering about their size options.

The Munsterlander comes in two sizes, Large and Small, with distinct height differences.

The Large Munsterlander stands at around 23–26.5 inches tall, while the Small Munsterlander reaches a height of approximately 20.5–21 inches.

These size variations mean you can choose the Munsterlander that best fits your living situation and family needs.

Here's a quick comparison of the two sizes:

The Small Munsterlander also has a unique color variation, with brown and white and brown roan options available.

Comparison and Facts

The Large Munsterlander and Small Munsterlander are two distinct sizes of the same breed. The Large Munsterlander stands at 23-26.5 inches tall, while the Small Munsterlander is slightly shorter at 20.5-21 inches.

In terms of coat, both varieties have a long, dense coat, but the Large Munsterlander has a longer coat that fits close to its body. The Small Munsterlander's coat can be straight or have a slight curl or wave.

The Large Munsterlander has loose-fitting skin on its body, while the Small Munsterlander has tight-fitting skin. The Large Munsterlander's coloring features a white background with black patches, roaned, or ticked, while the Small Munsterlander has a white background with brown patches, roaning, and ticking.

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Pictures

German Shorthaired Pointer on Bar next to Fence
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Pictures can be a powerful tool for conveying information and emotions.

A single image can speak a thousand words, as seen in the comparison between the serene landscape of the Grand Canyon and the bustling cityscape of Tokyo, where the Grand Canyon's vast expanse of natural beauty is juxtaposed with Tokyo's densely packed skyscrapers.

The Grand Canyon's iconic vistas are often captured in stunning photographs, showcasing the Colorado River's winding path and the dramatic rock formations that surround it.

In contrast, Tokyo's neon-lit streets are a photographer's dream, with billboards and advertisements lighting up the night sky in a kaleidoscope of colors.

The contrast between the two cities is striking, with the Grand Canyon's natural beauty standing in stark relief to Tokyo's urban chaos.

Similarly Sized Breeds

If you're looking for breeds similar in size to the Munsterlander, you'll want to consider the Armant and Pungsan, which share a 98% similarity in size.

The Armant and Pungsan are both medium to large breeds, with the Armant weighing in at around 70-80 pounds and the Pungsan at 80-100 pounds.

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The Porcelaine Dog is another breed that's similar in size, with a 97% similarity to the Munsterlander. It typically weighs between 70-90 pounds.

The Vizsla is also a great option, with a 97% similarity in size to the Munsterlander. This energetic breed typically weighs between 40-60 pounds, but can reach up to 70 pounds with proper exercise and care.

Here are some breeds that are similar in size to the Munsterlander:

  • Armant (98% similar)
  • Pungsan (98% similar)
  • Porcelaine Dog (97% similar)
  • Vizsla (97% similar)
  • Schnottie (97% similar)

3 Little-Known Facts

The Large Munsterlander has a unique appearance, and one little-known fact is that its coat should fit close to its body and be flat without any curl.

The Small Munsterlander's coat can either be straight or have a slight curl or wave, which is a subtle difference from its larger counterpart.

One notable feature of the Large Munsterlander is its loose fitting skin on its body, which is a distinct characteristic from the Small Munsterlander's tight fitting skin.

The Small Munsterlander's coloring can have brown patches, roaning, and ticking on a white background, which is a different combination from the Large Munsterlander's black patches, roaned or ticked on a white background.

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General Information

Credit: youtube.com, Small and Large Münsterländer Dog Breed - Facts and Information

The Large Munsterlander has a long coat that is dense except on his head, which has short, smooth hairs.

The Small Munsterlander also has a long, dense coat that is weather resistant and can either be straight or have a slight curl or wave.

Both Large and Small Munsterlanders originated in the area of western Germany around the city of Münster, but they do not share ancestry.

The Small Munsterländer was developed as a breed in the late nineteenth century by the Löns brothers, who wanted to create an all-round gundog.

The Large Munsterlander should have loose fitting skin on his body, while the Small Munsterlander should have tight fitting skin.

The Large Munsterlander's coloring should have a white background with black patches, roaned or ticked, while the Small Munsterlander's coloring should have a white background with brown patches, roaning and ticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does a Large Munsterlander get?

A Large Munsterlander typically reaches a height of 60-65 cm (24-26 in) for males and 58-63 cm (23-25 in) for females, weighing around 30 kg (66 lb).

What is good about Small Munsterlander?

The Small Munsterlander excels as a hunting dog with exceptional tracking and retrieving abilities, thanks to its intelligence and trainability. Its versatility and strong instincts make it a valuable companion for outdoor activities.

Bertha Hauck

Senior Writer

Bertha Hauck is a writer with a passion for sharing knowledge about canine companions. With a focus on Dutch Shepherds and other breeds originating in the Netherlands, Bertha's articles provide in-depth information for dog enthusiasts. Her expertise in herding dogs and FCI breeds has earned her a reputation as a trusted authority in the field.

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