History of the Small Munsterlander

Der Kleiner Munsterlander Vorstehhund, as the breed is known in Germany , originated in the 15^th century as an offspring of the Industrial Revolution. Falconry was the original use of the breed but gunpowder’s creation led to the breed’s even more common use as a gundog, as the common man’s place in society was elevated to a place which allowed them to pursue hunting (an activity formerly only for the wealthy land owners who could afford specialized dogs for the pursuit of specific prey). New breeds were developed that would meet the new needs of the new hunting class. Versatile dogs that would point, track and retrieve birds and mammals on land; track and retrieve birds and mammals in water; and locate, dispatch and announce wounded big game. The Small Munsterlander being one of the older longhaired versatile breeds was likely used to develop some of the other longhaired breeds of this class.

There was at one time two distinct “lines” of the breed. One with a fine body, narrow head, and of lighter weight. The other heavier boned, muscled and with a blockier head (obviously of greater weight).  In North America we see many more dogs of the later body type. Males averaging 50lbs. and females 42 lbs. Yet the lightest female I have owned was 34lbs.

The colour in the Small Munsterlander is liver and white in any combination. The liver is dominant and shows up as large areas called plates or small areas referred to as ticking. When the liver areas cover a great potion of the body the coat colour is referred to as roan and the white appears almost silver. Many people prefer the solid liver head but white on the face or head is not a fault.

Note I do not use the adjective “pointer” in the name of this breed. At one time in North America the breed was called the Small Munsterlander Pointer. However, many years ago the then Munsterlander Club (a mixture of Large and Small Munsterlander owners) agreed to drop the “Pointer” from the name. (There was concern by some that the other skills that the breed should possess to be truly “versatile” would be overlooked). The Small Munsterlander Club of North America can’t even agree on the proper name of the breed. Their club name and pedigree papers don’t use the word “Pointer” but their website uses the word often. (The concern from the Johnny come lately fanciers is that the pointing ability needs to be more prominent). No registering body in North America uses the word “pointer” on their registration papers.

The North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association, Field Dog Stud Book, United Kennel Club and the Small Munsterlander Club of North America offer registration paper. The former three organizations do not recognize the fourth. The Canadian Kennel Club, which only recognizes the F.C.I., offers a certificate in their Miscellaneous Class.