Weimaraner

Built for Speed. Glued to Your Side.
Also Known As -
Weim, Gray Ghost
Weimaraners are intelligent and athletic dogs, known for their sleek gray coat and loyal personality. They require experienced owners and plenty of exercise.

Experienced Owner

Weimaraners do best with owners who’ve been around the training block. They’re not difficult—but they’re smart, sensitive, and quick to test limits. Clear boundaries and consistent engagement are key.
Activity Needs
High
High
High
High

This isn’t your average “daily walk” dog. Weimaraners need real exercise—runs, hikes, games, or canine sports. Without it, they’ll get creative (and not in a good way).

Trainability
Willing
Willing
Willing

They want to please—but they also want to move. Training works best when it’s fast-paced, positive, and engaging.

kid compatability
Kids
Kids

Weimaraners adore their people and are great with respectful kids. That said, they bond intensely with one or two humans and can be clingy.

grooming needs
Low
Low
Low

Short, sleek coat with low grooming needs. They shed a bit, but a weekly brush usually does the trick.

noise level
Can Be Vocal
Can Be Vocal
Can Be Vocal

Can Be Vocal—especially if bored or under-stimulated. Not a chronic barker, but definitely expressive.

Good for Allergies
No
No

Not hypoallergenic—light shedding and dander can be an issue for sensitive folks.

About the

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a sleek, silver-grey sporting dog originally developed in Germany for hunting large game like boar and deer. Named after the Grand Duke of Weimar, whose court favored the breed, the Weimaraner eventually transitioned to hunting smaller animals such as fowl and rabbits. Today, it’s recognized as a versatile, all-purpose gun dog—equal parts pointer, retriever, and tracker.

These dogs are known for their speed, stamina, and power, paired with deep loyalty and an intense desire to be close to their family. While affectionate with their people, Weimaraners are often reserved with strangers and may become territorial without proper socialization. Early and consistent training is essential—not just for manners, but to help channel the breed’s high energy and excitable temperament.

Weimaraners need substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, they’re prone to destructive behaviors, especially in puppyhood and adolescence. They’re best suited for active owners who can provide plenty of movement, structure, and attention. Their prey drive is strong, and while some can live peacefully with cats or small animals, others may not—especially if not raised with them from a young age.

With the right balance of exercise, training, and companionship, the Weimaraner makes a devoted, athletic, and elegant addition to the family.

Similar Breeds: Vizsla, Rhodesian Ridgeback

What It's Like To Own One

Living with a Weimaraner is like rooming with a high-energy athlete who’s also your emotional support system. They’re sleek, sensitive, and absolutely glued to your side—what some call a “Velcro dog,” but with rocket boosters attached. They want to be with you, work with you, and move with you. Every day.

This is not a dog that fades into the background. They’ll press their head against your chest for reassurance, follow you into every room, and need regular mental and physical challenges to stay balanced. When engaged, they’re brilliant, intuitive, and affectionate to their core. But ignore their needs or leave them alone too long? You might come home to chewed furniture, creative landscaping, or a jailbreak attempt.

They’re not just pets—they’re partners. A deeply attached, intelligent working breed that thrives when you treat them like part of the team. If you’re up for the energy and the closeness, you’ll gain a loyal, breathtakingly devoted companion who never wants to leave your side.

Tail Of The Tape

Trait
Low
High
Height
23
in
27
in
Weight
55
lbs
90
lbs
Lifespan
10
yrs
10
yrs

Personality Snapshot

• Intensely loyal and people-focused

• Athletic, smart, and driven

• Needs a ton of exercise and attention

• Sensitive and can develop separation anxiety

• Not ideal for casual or low-energy homes

Breed Embodiment

Chris Hemsworth as Thor
Strong, loyal, adventurous, and a little dramatic—especially when he’s not the center of attention.

Dating Profile

Looking for someone fast, fun, and maybe a little obsessed—with me. I’m loyal to the core, built for adventure, and happiest when I’m glued to your side. If you’re into running, exploring, and nonstop companionship, we’re already halfway to soulmates. Must love movement, affection, and always having a shadow.

Fictional Owners

Indiana Jones
Loves adventure, loyal to a fault, and always on the move.
Lorelai Gilmore
Talkative, intense, and always up for a spontaneous bonding moment.
Meredith Grey
High-energy and emotionally intense—she’d thrive with a dog who mirrors her passion and persistence.

Where They Want To Live

Weimaraners need space to move and someone to move with. They do best in homes with active families, runners, or outdoor lovers who want a constant four-legged companion—one who’ll happily hike, run, explore, and then curl up at your feet (or in your bed).

They’re not built for solitude. Long hours alone or confined apartment living without serious daily exercise and engagement? That’s a recipe for restlessness and destruction. This is a breed that bonds hard, lives close, and thrives in environments that offer both physical outlets and emotional connection. If you want a graceful athlete who also spoons—this is your dog.

🐾 Bringing home a

Toy dogs can bring big challenges.
Start with puppy socialization tips for your 
Weimaraner
to build confidence early.
And make sure to check out, Help! I Got a Puppy, a complete guide for new dog parents to raise a great pup without losing your mind.
Small dogs can bring big challenges.
Start with our puppy socialization tips for your 
Weimaraner
to build confidence early. And make sure to check out, Help! I Got a Puppy, a complete guide for new dog parents to raise a great pup without losing your mind.
We’ve got you covered with
first 48-hour tips for your
Weimaraner
puppy to start off right.
To prep for the wild ride ahead, grab Help! I Got a Puppy, the first book every new dog owner should read.
Big pups grow fast. Get ahead of the curve with
puppy proofing tips for your new  
Weimaraner
puppy and make your home safe from day one. Then dive into Help! I Got a Puppy, a step-by-step handbook for everything you’ll need (and didn’t know to expect).
Start with this
Puppy 101 for your new  
Weimaraner
to build habits before that little giant grows up.
And don’t miss Help! I Got a Puppy— the Google Maps of puppyhood and your sanity-saving handbook for the first year.

Things To Know

• Not a good fit for low-activity households

• Needs mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise

• Can be clingy or develop anxiety if left alone often

• Prey drive is strong—watch small animals

• Off-leash only in secure, fenced areas

Gear Guide

• High-durability hiking harness

• Hands-free leash for runs

• Scent games and puzzle toys

• Crate for downtime and anxiety prevention

• Cozy bed—preferably next to yours

Health Watch: Common Breed Risks

Weimaraners are generally healthy, but their active lifestyle and genetic makeup make them prone to a few key issues:

• Bloat (gastric torsion—can be life-threatening)

• Hip dysplasia

• Entropion (eyelid issue)

• Hypothyroidism

• Separation anxiety-related stress conditions

• Skin allergies

Owners should be vigilant about bloat prevention and joint support throughout their lives.

Coat Types & Color Variety

The Weimaraner’s sleek, iconic coat is part of their signature look:

• Common colors: silver-gray, mouse-gray, blue-gray

• Coat types: smooth (standard), long-haired (less common)

• Minimal shedding and low odor

• Weekly brushing keeps their coat glossy and reduces loose hair

• Sensitive skin—avoid harsh shampoos

Their elegance comes easy—but still needs gentle upkeep.

Diet & Nutrition Needs

These athletic dogs need a nutrient-rich diet to match their energy:

• High-protein, moderate-fat kibble or fresh food

• Feed twice daily to reduce bloat risk

• Avoid heavy exercise right before or after meals

• Monitor weight closely—lean body condition supports joint health

• Consider joint-supportive supplements (glucosamine, fish oil)

Hydration and mealtime pacing are key for this high-output breed.

Health Care Tips

The Weimaraner’s sleek, iconic coat is part of their signature look:

• Common colors: silver-gray, mouse-gray, blue-gray

• Coat types: smooth (standard), long-haired (less common)

• Minimal shedding and low odor

• Weekly brushing keeps their coat glossy and reduces loose hair

• Sensitive skin—avoid harsh shampoos

Their elegance comes easy—but still needs gentle upkeep.

Bottom Line

Weimaraners aren’t just pets—they’re full-on partners. Loyal, intense, and endlessly affectionate, they’re high-maintenance in all the best ways. If you’re ready to commit to their energy and emotional depth, they’ll reward you with fierce devotion and a bond that runs deep. Not for the casual dog owner—but unforgettable for the right one.

Additional Resources