![Munsterlander (Large) Dog Breed](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium_440x440/public/2022-07/Munsterlander-Large.jpg?itok=p_1mW1FE)
Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
Exercise needs: | 5/5 |
Easy to train: | 5/5 |
Tolerates being alone: | 4/5 |
Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
Energy level: | 4/5 |
Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
Shedding: | 3/5 |
The Large Munsterlander breed can suffer from:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hyperuricosuria which is where a substance called uric acid build up in the urinary tract and can lead to the formation of bladder stones.
- Hereditary cataracts which is a condition where the lens in the eye becomes cloudy and this can result in blindness.
- Epilepsy¹ which is a condition where abnormal brain function can lead to seizures which damage the brain.
Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
- Hip dysplasia screening scheme
- Elbow dysplasia screening scheme
- Eye screening scheme
- DNA test for hyperuricosuria which tests whether or not a dog has the potential to be affected by this condition.
¹A. D. Short et al, 'Characteristics of epileptic episodes in UK dog breeds: an epidemiological approach', 2011, Veterinary Record
Affectionate, lovable and patient, the Munsterlander makes an excellent family dog as well as a good working gundog. They will also act as watch dogs however, alerting their family to the presence of strangers or suspicious activity, and can therefore be quite vocal. Eager to work and with a desire to please, they are easily trained to perform a variety of tasks beyond the typical gundog jobs.
Whilst the Large Munsterlander can really be considered a different coloured German Long Haired Pointer, the Small Munsterlander (who is not that much smaller than the Large!) originates from a mix of Large Munsterlander and smaller Spaniel types. This is why the Small Munsterlander tends to be a slightly more intense, busy and independent dog compared to the calmer, steadier Large.