GROUP 3 - GUNDOGS

Brief History
The Large Munsterlander was developed in the German area of Munster as a hunting, retrieving, pointing gundog, to work on land and in water, with fur and feather game, such as ducks, rabbits, quail and pheasant. He has an excellent nose and was also used to track and hunt deer and foxes. Although only recognized as a stand-alone breed in the early 1900’s, the breed has been in existence since the Middle Ages, usually referred to as various types of Long-Haired Pointers.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 11 to 13 years.

Temperament
The Large Munsterlander is a very loyal, affectionate, calm and trustworthy dog that is family friendly, but is inclined to bond more strongly with one person in the family.

General Breed Description
The Large Munsterlander is an alert and energetic dog, with a strong muscular body. A multi-purpose gundog with an excellent nose and staying power, he works equally well on land and in water, having good movement with drive. He is a keen worker and easily taught. He is well suited to dog sports such as Agility, Obedience, Rally, Flyball and Conformation dog shows.

The head of the Large Munsterlander is solid black in colour, but may have a white blaze, while the body is white or blue roan with black patches, flecked or a combination of these.

Coat and Care Requirements
Although the Large Munsterlander has a long, thick waterproof coat which protects him against cold, the coat is a compromise well suited to temperate climates. The body hair is long, soft and thick, with longer hair forming a fringe on the legs and tail. Brushing at least twice a week ensures that knots do not develop under the ears, armpits and chest.

Size
Height: Males 60 to 65cms (23.5 to 25.5ins), Females 58 to 63cms (23 to 25ins).

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about the breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Large Munsterlander is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally. These may include Hip Dysplasia (HD), Elbow Dysplasia, Hereditary Cataracts and Hyperuricosuria (HUU), for which a DNA test is available.

Suitability
The Large Munsterlander is sociable, healthy, versatile, gentle and very intelligent. Valued as an active, friendly & loyal family dog, it is very well suited to both indoors and outdoors. Easily trained and with a strong desire to please, they will keep their owner company while walking and running once they have finished growing. They are easy to live with and will adapt to almost any lifestyle, but do require daily exercise and stimulation. Like all dogs they should be well socialised and trained from the puppy stage.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/120