History of Weimaraners
The standards of today's Weimaraner breed were solidified in the mid-1800's, though the breed itself dates back as fars the 17th century. Weimaraners are believed to be descendants of older pointing breeds such as the Continental, as well as the mastiff. Originally, they were bred purely for nobility of the day - the goal being to create a regal, austere canine who could be relied upon as a gundog. Because of their elite status, Weimaraners were highly prized and kept very close to their owner family. This constant human contact has instilled in today's Weimaraner a need to always be near people and is why their temperament will crumble if they are kept kenneled.
Born and bred in Germany, the Germans were quite protective and possessive of their prized breed. In the mid-twentieth century however, they were exported to the United States where they found quick popularity. Although considered slower than other Pointing and hunting dogs, Weimaraners' thorough hunting prowess made them quite popular amongst the sportmen and hunters of the day. The breed is also particularly good as a family dog, although their exciteable temperaments can cause problems in families with younger children.
Several prominent historical figures helped usher in a great love for the Weimaraner breed. The first was President Eisenhower's prized Heidi - a beautiful female Weimaraner. The second which many folks - even those unfamiliar with the Weimaraner breed - will recognize is the world renowned photography of William Wegman. Wegman routinely dresses his two Weims - Man Ray and Fay Ray - in people's clothing which has created somewhat of a pop culture icon. His dogs have on the primetime U.S. television show, Saturday Night Live, as well as on Sesame Street.