Large Munsterlander
Summary
The Large Munsterlander has curious origins: it developed from the same ancestors as the Deutsch Langhaar, but for aesthetic reasons — the Langhaar breeders preferred brown specimens and excluded the black and white ones. The owners of these "excluded" specimens then founded their own club in 1919 and standardized the Large Munsterlander as an independent breed. Today it is one of the most appreciated versatile hunting dogs of Central Europe.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 60–65 cm
- Height (female)
- 58–63 cm
- Weight (male)
- 25–34 kg
- Weight (female)
- 25–28 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Long and dense, not curly or rough; feathering on the front and rear legs and on the tail; short and smooth on the head
- Common Colors
- Solid black head (with or without white blaze/stripe); white or blue roan body with patches, flecking, or ticking of black
Temperament & Personality
The Large Munsterlander is loyal, affectionate, and reliable — qualities recognized in its breed standard. It is a dog with a balanced temperament that hunts at a medium pace and adapts to the hunter's style. At home it is calm and "easy to get along with," less excitable than the Kleiner Münsterländer. It adapts well to the family, including with children, when adequately exercised.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate to high
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Hereditary cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
- Recommended Health Tests
- Approved breeding stock must have certified hips and eyes
- CERF ophthalmologic examination
- OFA orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
