Munsterlander (Large)

About this Breed

Large Munsterlanders are German gun dogs that have been well loved there for a few hundred years. Stately looking and handsome dogs, Large Munsterlanders make wonderful hunting companions as well as excellent pets. They are truly lovely dogs, with plush ears and expressive and noble faces.

Bred to be hunting dogs, Large Munsterlanders are gentle, intelligent, and loyal. While they are still primarily used as hunting dogs, they can make excellent pets for the right family. They have relatively high exercise needs and really thrive outdoors. Consequently, they really aren’t ideal dogs for small spaces or apartment living. They will be much happier in a suburban or rural home; however, with proper exercise and plenty of physical and mental activity, they can adapt well to city life. Without the proper precautions, though, they will become restless and bored. If prospective owners live in an apartment, they might want to consider enrolling their dogs in a sport, such as hunting trials, agility, or fly ball. That will help keep them mentally and physical stimulated and will make for a much better pet. If this is not a possibility, it might be best to consider another breed.

Large Munsterlanders are best known for their “balance”—they are extremely versatile hunting dogs and can work in a variety of different terrains. They are also friendly, intelligent, and eager to please. This combination of a great personality and exceptional hunting ability is what has led to their popularity both in their native Germany and abroad. They do well with other dogs and are great lovers of children, though they cannot be trusted to control their hunting instinct around smaller pets. If cats or rodents are present in the home, owners may want to look elsewhere and consider a less prey driven breed.

Large Munsterlanders are not terribly common in the United States, but people will likely be able to find a breeder who raises them as hunting dogs. Some will not give Large Munsterlander puppies to homes that don’t intend on using them for hunting, so prospective owners may need to do a great deal of searching.