What is a Min Pin?
The Min Pin is a Miniature Pinscher and is a toy breed of dog. Miniature Pinschers aren't simply a smaller version of the Doberman Pinscher, but are a separate breed. Since the Min Pin looks so much like a tiny replica of the Doberman Pinscher, it's surprising that they were actually bred before the bigger dogs and were developed from crossing dogs such as terriers and Italian Greyhounds. The Min Pin was first developed in Germany in the seventeenth century to hunt rats in stables.
The Min Pin is known for being a very curious and active little dog. They are also fast and have been known to dash out of opened doors and jump over fences quite easily, so a secure yard is a must for these dogs. Min Pins may also pick fights with bigger dogs as they are often brave. They are said to make good apartment dogs but do need to be walked daily for exercise.
In general, Min Pins are considered a healthy breed, but they are prone to some eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) which leads to blindness. PRA is an inherited condition also known to affect breeds such as the Australian Heeler. The Min Pin is susceptible to cold temperatures and is the type of dog that does well with a sweater on winter walks.
The Min Pin's coat is quite easy to care for. Regular bathing is not usually advised for this breed as too much bathing can be drying to the skin. The coat color is often red, but black and tan, as well as chocolate, Min Pins are available. Unlike the Doberman Pinscher, the Min Pin is not usually considered a good breed for families with young children, but may do well with older children. Min Pins are said to have a mind of their own and proper obedience training is usually necessary.
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![The Min Pin is a smaller version of a Doberman Pinscher.]()
By: jurra8The Min Pin is a smaller version of a Doberman Pinscher.
Discussion Comments
My mother has been thinking about getting a small dog, and the min pin is a breed that is on her list. She lives in an apartment, and is allowed to have a small dog. Does anyone have any thoughts about how well this breed would do living in an apartment setting?
@raynbow- I think that a min pin would be a nice dog for an apartment dweller. However, I think that your mother should check out several dogs before committing to one. Some min pins are more active than others, and puppies require a lot of attention.
A min pin that would thrive in an apartment should be at least several years old and have a calm, adaptive temperament. The best way to find a min pin to match your mother's situation is to visit several animal shelters or dog rescues and spend time with several dogs. This will help your mother find the perfect dog for her.
@raynbow- I had a min pin when I was a child, and she was a very sweet, laid back dog. This breed is very loyal, and is happy just to be around its owner.
Since it is small and not too active, I think that a min pin would do just fine living in an apartment. However, I do think that your mother should be prepared to train her new dog, and be sure to take it on plenty of walks and give it lots of attention to keep it from making messes or barking out of boredom.
My mother has been thinking about getting a small dog, and the min pin is a breed that is on her list. She lives in an apartment, and is allowed to have a small dog. Does anyone have any thoughts about how well this breed would do living in an apartment setting?
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