Munsterlander

Breed Type: Sporting
Common nicknames: Small Munsterlander, Munster, Small Munsterlander Pointer
Coat: Double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, patient, gentle
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Color & patterns:
Hero image
Munsterlander - brown and white
Munsterlander -Roan
Meet the Munsterlander, a fun-loving and charming breed that ranges between 35 to 83 pounds depending on whether they’re of the small or large variety and has striking coats of either black and white or liver and white. Bred to be all-around hunting dogs, Munsterlanders combine athleticism, a keen nose, and a sharp mind. When the working day is done, they’re all about cuddles, making them as good at fetching birds as they are at stealing hearts. So, if you’re seeking a dog who combines athleticism, brains, and loyalty, the Munsterlander might be the perfect fit for you.

Munsterlander characteristics

Learn about about Munsterlander basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Munsterlander facts.

Average height

17-26 inches (43.2-66.0cm)

Average weight

35-83 pounds (15.9-37.6 kg)

Average lifespan

10-14 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
Do Munsterlanders have webbed feet?

Yes, Munsterlanders have webbed feet, which is a common trait among many versatile hunting dogs. The webbing between their toes helps them swim, making them strong and efficient water retrievers. This adaptation is particularly useful for retrieving waterfowl during hunting or working in wetlands.

What colors do Munsterlanders come in?

The two Munsterlander breeds come in different colors. Large Munsterlanders can be black and white, black, blue roan, or white. Small Munsterlanders are brown and white, whether solid or with roaning or ticking.

How big do Munsterlanders get?

There are two Munsterlander breeds, and their size varies depending on whether they are Large Munsterlanders or Small Munsterlanders. Large Munsterlanders are 23 to 26.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 50 to 70 pounds. Small Munsterlanders are 20.5 to 21 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds. Both breeds are athletic and sturdy, though Large Munsterlanders are bigger and more robust than Small Munsterlanders.

What kind of coat does a Munsterlander have?

Munsterlanders have a medium-length, dense, and straight or slightly wavy coat. The coat is thick and just long enough to provide insulation and protection from cold or wet environments. The coat is somewhat water-resistant, which helps when they are retrieving in water.

Do Munsterlanders shed?

Yes, Munsterlanders do shed. Both Large and Small Munsterlanders have medium-length, dense coats that shed moderately throughout the year, with increased shedding during seasonal changes in the spring and fall.

Brush the coat once or twice a week to remove loose hair and reduce shedding around the house. During heavy shedding periods, more frequent brushing might be needed to manage the shedding.

Munsterlander temperament

Learn about about the Munsterlander temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Munsterlanders good with kids?

Yes, Munsterlanders are good with kids. Both the Large Munsterlander and Small Munsterlander enjoy being part of family activities, including playing with children. They have a patient temperament, which can be ideal for interacting with kids. Their energetic and playful nature makes them good companions for active children who enjoy outdoor activities.

As with any breed, early socialization and training are important to ensure that a Munsterlander grows up to be well-mannered and comfortable around children. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children. Always supervise interactions between dogs and young children to ensure safe and positive experiences for both.

Are Munsterlanders good with other dogs?

Yes, Munsterlanders are good with other dogs. Munsterlanders are generally adaptable and can adjust to having other dogs around as long as they are introduced properly and given time to acclimate. Their friendly and social nature usually helps them get along well with canine companions. Early socialization with other dogs can help them develop good social skills and become well-adjusted around canine companions.

Are Munsterlanders good with cats?

Munsterlanders can be good with cats, but their compatibility with felines often depends on individual temperament, early socialization, and training. Some Munsterlanders have a strong prey drive, which could make them more inclined to chase or bother cats. Others might be more relaxed and accepting of cats. 

Introducing a Munsterlander to cats at a young age can help them develop a positive relationship. When introducing a Munsterlander to a cat, it’s best to do so gradually and under supervision. This allows both the dog and cat to get used to each other in a controlled environment.

Do Munsterlanders bark a lot?

No, Munsterlanders do not bark a lot. In fact, they are relatively quiet dogs compared to some other breeds. They might bark to alert their people to the presence of strangers or unusual activity, and some Musterlanders also vocalize while hunting to communicate with their handler or indicate the presence of game.

Are Munsterlanders good family dogs?

Yes, Munsterlanders are good family dogs. Munsterlanders are friendly and affectionate and tend to be patient and gentle with children, making them a good choice for families with kids. Munsterlanders are adaptable and can thrive in different living environments, whether in a house with a yard or an apartment, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Their high energy levels and love for outdoor activities make them great partners for family outings, hikes, or playtime in the yard.

Are Munsterlanders easy to train?

Yes, Munsterlanders are easy to train. They are intelligent dogs who quickly learn new commands and tasks. Their problem-solving abilities make training sessions effective. They also have a strong desire to make their pet parents happy, which motivates them to follow commands and perform tasks correctly. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats, praise, and play. Just keep in mind that even if a certain dog breed is known to be easy to train, training any dog requires a long-term commitment.

Are Munsterlanders smart?

Yes, Munsterlanders are smart dogs. They are quick to pick up new commands and skills, and they have good problem-solving abilities, which helps them excel in tasks that require thought and strategy, such as hunting and retrieving. Their ability to adapt to various environments and situations demonstrates their cognitive flexibility. This trait is especially useful in their roles as versatile hunting dogs.

Are Munsterlanders friendly?

Yes, Munsterlanders are friendly and sociable dogs. They are affectionate with their family members and also enjoy meeting new people and other animals, including dogs and cats, when properly introduced. Munsterlanders are playful and energetic, which translates into a friendly and engaging personality.

Munsterlander history

Learn about where this Munsterlander came from!

Is a Small Munsterlander recognized by the AKC?

No, the Small Munsterlander is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a fully recognized breed. However, it is part of the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service (FSS), a program that registers rare or developing breeds that are not yet fully recognized to compete in AKC events like conformation dog shows. The Small Munsterlander is also recognized by other kennel clubs, including the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Where are Munsterlanders from?

Munsterlanders are from Germany. Specifically, they come from the Münster region in northwestern Germany, which is where they get their name. There are two distinct varieties: Large Munsterlanders and Small Munsterlanders. Both breeds are prized for their tracking, retrieving, and pointing abilities, making them popular among hunters across Europe.

What were Munsterlanders bred for?

Munsterlanders were bred for hunting. They are versatile gun dogs prized for their ability to point, retrieve, and track game in various terrains. Specifically, they were bred to assist hunters by locating and pointing at game (such as birds), retrieving from land or water, tracking game in fields, forests, and wetlands.

What is the difference between Small and Large Munsterlanders?

The main differences between Small and Large Munsterlanders lie in their size, appearance, temperament, hunting style, and history. Large Munsterlanders are larger and have black and white coats. Small Munsterlanders are smaller and have brown and white coats. 

Large Munsterlanders are calm, steady, and excellent at working in water. Small Munsterlanders are more energetic and lively, and they tend to be highly adaptable in different terrains. Large Munsterlanders were recognized in the early 20th century. The Small Munsterlander is a much older breed, with records going back to the Middle Ages.

Is a Large Munsterlander a spaniel?

No, the Large Munsterlander is not classified as a spaniel, though it shares some similar traits, such as flushing and retrieving game. Instead, the Large Munsterlander is a versatile hunting dog classified as a pointing breed. It falls under the broader category of German gun dogs.

Munsterlander health

Learn about about the Munsterlander health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do Munsterlanders have health issues?

Like all breeds, Munsterlanders are prone to certain health issues, although they are generally healthy and robust dogs. Regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, exercise, and proper grooming can help maintain their health and catch any issues early.

What diseases are Munsterlanders prone to?

Munsterlanders, like many breeds, can be prone to certain genetic and health conditions. While they are generally healthy dogs, being aware of potential issues can help with early detection and management. Some diseases and health concerns that affect Munsterlanders include:

  • Hip dysplasia: A hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket, which can lead to arthritis and pain.

  • Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint and can cause lameness or pain.

  • Eye disease: Some Munsterlnders might develop hereditary cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a genetic eye condition that causes gradual loss of vision and can eventually lead to blindness.

  • Hyperuricosuria (HUU): This genetic condition involves an elevated level of uric acid in the urine, which can lead to the formation of uric acid stones (uroliths) in the urinary tract, such as the bladder or kidneys.

  • Gastric dilatation and volvulus (bloat): A serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.

  • Ear infections: Due to their floppy ears, Munsterlanders can be prone to ear infections if moisture and debris are trapped in the ear canal.

  • Allergies: Munsterlanders can suffer from allergies that cause skin issues or gastrointestinal problems. Environmental and food allergies are both possible.

  • Autoimmune disorders: Some autoimmune disorders, where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, can occur, though they are less common.

Find Munsterlander puppies near you

Adopting a Munsterlander

We don't see any Munsterlanders available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

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Penny

American Pit Bull Terrier Mutt

Female, adult

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Color
Black - with White
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Penny came to us from Franklin County rescue at 3 years of age. She’s an energetic and happy but also loves to relax when she’s at home and comfortable. She absolutely loves being outside and taking road trips. She does get agitated when meeting new dogs, especially those that are reactive but warms up relatively quickly. She lived with another dog for a year and they got along great. That said I would not recommend her for homes with cats or other small critters.
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Lucky

Mutt Labrador Retriever

Male, adult

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Color
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Details
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Story
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Barry

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Color
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Details
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Story
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Herbie 🩷

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Male, young

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Color
White - with Brown or Chocolate
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Needs experienced adopter
House-trained
Shots are up-to-date
Story
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Henry and Raaz

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Color
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Details
Good with kids
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Needs experienced adopter
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Story
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hobbs

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Male, adult

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Color
Black - with Tan, Yellow or Fawn
Size
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Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Needs experienced adopter
House-trained
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Story
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