Not only owners of large country houses, but also residents of city apartments can get a dog. It is worth stopping at those breeds that are adapted to living in a small area.
Otherwise, everyone will suffer: the dog will feel uncomfortable, whine, spoil things, and the owners will get problems and headaches instead of a faithful friend. Moreover, a puppy that is not adapted to an apartment can become seriously ill.
In order not to run into trouble, we have compiled for you the TOP of the best dogs for living in an apartment, based on the recommendations of dog handlers and the advice of owners.
- Top 12 small dog breeds for apartments
- Top 15 medium dog breeds for apartments
- Top 13 large dog breeds for apartments
Advantages of smooth-haired dogs
Unlike many other breeds, smooth-haired dogs have obvious advantages:
- absence or less seasonal shedding;
- simple coat care;
- tangles do not form on the body;
- shine of wool;
- easier to clean the apartment.
Despite their short hair, dogs in this group require proper and regular care, and can also cause allergies if they are individually intolerant.
Cane Corso
The maximum weight of an adult dog is 50 kg. Height at the withers is up to 68 cm. One of the most popular guard breeds is the Italian Cane Corso. The Cane Corso will protect the territory in which it lives from any uninvited invasion, and in case of danger it will rush into battle without hesitating for a second.
Cane Corsos are descended from gladiator dogs, their character is the golden mean between kindness and aggression. Simply put, Cane Corso packs show love, patience and loyalty towards their own members, and show an extreme degree of justified aggression towards strangers. Please note that it is reasonable.
That is, a Cane Corso is unlikely to rush into a fight without a reason. But if he senses signs of danger, he won’t wait for further confirmation. What is noteworthy is that Cane Corsos are not at all jealous or selfish. They are calm about the fact that the owner can devote more time to the household than to the dog.
Cane Corsos do not strive to become leaders, are not stubborn during training, and then unquestioningly follow the commands of their beloved owner. These giants are very easy to train, but the period of “childhood” is extended over time. Young Corsos are so playful that in a fit of reckless fun they may simply not hear the command, and then they repent so sincerely that it is impossible not to forgive them.
Adult Cane Corsos are inactive, so they can easily live even in a city apartment. If you can provide your dog with daily physical exercise while walking, then the Corso will behave completely calmly at home. When choosing a puppy, pay attention to his health - Cane Corsos often suffer from congenital hip dysplasia.
Small smooth-haired dog breeds
Small breeds of dogs are ideal for keeping in an apartment. They do not require complex care and require minimal physical activity and grooming.
Basenji, or African non-barking dog
The oldest dog breed, formed in Central Africa. The uniqueness of the Basenji is that they cannot bark, but make sounds reminiscent of purring and yodelling. The dog has not only a strong immune system, but also an extraordinary intelligence and affectionate character. This is an active and agile animal; it is better to choose coursing or agility as an activity. Behavior on the street may differ from at home - many representatives have a hunting instinct, so obedience training is mandatory from puppyhood. Cost from 50,000 ₽.
Jack Russell Terrier
Until the 20th century, the Jack Russell Terrier was used as a burrowing dog; today they are kept as a pet. This is a typical representative of the group of small terriers; despite their compact size, they have an explosive temperament and a huge amount of energy. Within the breed there are wire-haired and smooth-haired varieties, differing in their hair care features. When choosing a breed, it is important to consider that a large amount of physical activity is required, and loud barking can cause conflicts with neighbors. Price from 15,000 ₽.
Pug
A smooth-haired breed of decorative dogs brought to Europe from China. The Pug is easy to recognize by its characteristic appearance - a slightly angular body, a short and flattened nose. This feature leads to severe snoring and frequent problems with the respiratory system. The dog is great for first-time owners and families with small children. By their nature, they are not prone to aggression, are easy to train and do not require complex care. To avoid problems with the coat, it is enough to wash and dry the folds weekly. You can buy a puppy from 15,000 ₽.
Parson Russell Terrier
The breed was bred in England for burrow hunting of badgers and foxes. Today the dog has practically lost its working qualities, but has become popular as a pet. This is a small and active animal with a complex character. Like other terriers, they have endless energy, a love of play and a tendency to be aggressive towards other animals. The dog behaves friendly with people, becomes attached to one owner and the family in which it lives. Two-tone wool can be hard or smooth, the second option is easier to care for. The Parson Russell Terrier is recommended for active, experienced owners. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
Prague rat
In the past, dogs were used to hunt rats in urban environments, which is reflected in the name of the breed. Today the Prague rat is a popular pet with companion qualities. Despite its small size (only 2-2.3 kg), the dog feels confident in the role of a watchman and can hunt birds and rodents. They love to be the center of attention and are highly trainable. The smooth-haired Prague rat is suitable for keeping in a small apartment and adapts well to life in the city. When choosing this breed, you should remember that participation in international exhibitions is impossible - there is no FCI recognition. Price from 10,000 ₽.
Russian toy terrier
Despite its toy appearance and miniature size, the dog has many problems. They are difficult to train, prone to a number of diseases and often get injured. The Toy Terrier is perfectly adapted for living in an apartment; keeping it in a private house is not advisable. Care is simple, but regular walks and physical activity are recommended to prevent obesity. The cost of puppies is from 15,000 ₽.
Dachshund
The breed has an interesting appearance - an elongated body, short legs and disproportionately long ears. The dachshund combines pet charm and hunting skills. Advantages include their focus on people; they love communication, get along well with children and love playing together. Within the breed, there are long-haired and smooth-haired varieties of dachshund, which differ in appearance. It is important for the owner to remember that due to the structure of the spine, diseases of the support system often develop. Price from 10,000 ₽.
Whippet
A small smooth-haired hound dog. They easily develop enormous speed, which is still often used in hunting hares. The Whippet has a harmonious build, well-developed muscles and short hair. They are valued for their compact size and ease of training, lack of aggression towards humans, which makes them an excellent companion. In winter, it is recommended to wear a warm cape to avoid hypothermia, since there is no undercoat. You can buy a puppy from 20,000 ₽.
Fox terrier
Among small terriers, they have the most violent character, which complicates the upbringing and maintenance of these dogs. Originally bred for hunting, fox terriers have not lost their instincts today; they show aggression towards birds and other animals. The dog is valued for its beautiful appearance - a compact body with square features, smooth or wire-haired exterior. The breed is recommended for experienced owners; early socialization is required. Cost from 25,000 ₽.
miniature pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a German breed of smooth-haired dog. Despite their compact size, they have well-developed muscles and limbs. The diminutive size hides the character of a watchman, so when kept in an apartment, barking must be stopped from puppyhood. With proper upbringing, the miniature pinscher becomes a true family friend and companion. He loves fun games, children and spending time together. Grooming is simple, but it is advisable to wear warm clothes in cold weather. You can buy a puppy from 10,000 ₽.
Chihuahua
A Mexican breed of smooth-haired and long-haired dogs that has gained great popularity as a pet. The Chihuahua is distinguished by its miniature size, developed intelligence and social qualities. They are great for keeping even in a small apartment, but daily physical activity is recommended to prevent obesity. It is important to consider that Chihuahuas are prone to a number of diseases and require regular veterinary examinations. Price from 10,000 ₽.
French Bulldog
A breed of smooth-haired dogs with a friendly character. French Bulldogs are family friendly, they get along well with other animals and are great with children. From its fighting ancestors, the bulldog adopted a stocky physique, developed muscles and a powerful skull, but aggressiveness is unusual for the breed. Due to the structure of the nose, severe snoring is possible, which can be corrected by plastic surgery, and a tendency to allergies is also common. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
miniature pinscher
The maximum weight of an adult dog is 6 kg. The height at the withers is up to 30 cm. Despite its small size, the miniature pinscher is distinguished by increased conceit and disobedience. Its training is a primary task for the owner, because a poorly socialized dog can cause real mayhem at home, and then not feel the slightest remorse about it.
Representatives of the breed are very active, they can hardly be called homebodies - in order to throw out their ebullient energy, miniature pinschers enjoy spending time outside. Outdoor games, jogging and agility are what the owner needs to provide for such a pet on an ongoing basis.
Under no circumstances should you keep rodents in the same apartment as miniature pinschers. The breed is famous for its irreconcilable hatred of rodents: mice, hamsters, rats, including decorative ones.
Even if you place the cage at a height inaccessible to the miniature pinscher, the dog will sooner or later find a way to get to the defenseless rodent. Miniature pinschers get along well with school-age children, but they can respond to obsessive petting by children with overt aggression.
Medium-sized smooth-haired dogs
A versatile group of breeds, the wide variety includes companion dogs, hunters and family pets. The medium size is suitable for both apartments and private houses.
American Staffordshire Terrier
The second name of this smooth-haired dog breed is Amstaff. The formation of the exterior was completed by 1972, today it received official recognition from the FCI. The Staffordshire Terrier has a stocky build; the beauty of its muscles is especially revealed with constant training. Their character combines opposite qualities - strength and affection, assertiveness and sensitivity. A dog always strives for its own safety; if threatened, it can even attack a loved one. Strict upbringing and mandatory training are required. Price from 25,000 ₽.
English bulldog
A short-haired breed of dog that has suffered enormous changes in appearance due to uncontrolled breeding. The ancient English bulldog was distinguished by excellent immunity, developed muscles and fearlessness. Today, representatives of the breed have health problems and a tendency to obesity. From their ancestors they have retained short hair, a massive physique and an innate calmness. The breed is recommended for keeping in an apartment; exercise is required to prevent diseases. Frequent washing and thorough drying of body folds are required. You can buy a puppy from 50,000 ₽.
Basset Hound
An English breed of smooth-haired hounds with a long, massive body and a sad expression in the eyes. By its nature, the Basset Hound is a born hunter, characterized by excitement, mobility and aggression towards animals. They adapt to any conditions, but keeping them in a country house is preferable. These are smart dogs that need not physical, but also intellectual exercise. Despite their love for a person, with the wrong approach to education, they can become aggressive and uncontrollable. When choosing a puppy, it is important to consider that the breed is prone to many diseases. Cost from 30,000 ₽.
Beagle
This typical English hound with its distinctive tri-color coat, muscular build and mischievous personality has become popular as a family pet. The Beagle is unpretentious in terms of maintenance and living conditions and gets used to the urban environment. Dogs of this breed require a lot of activity, which should be diluted with intellectual exercises. The main problem of the breed is frequent and loud barking, which can complicate life in an apartment. Price from 25,000 ₽.
Bloodhound
One of the largest smooth-haired breeds of the hound group. The breed was formed in Belgium, where it is still used in service. Dogs have a phenomenal sense of smell and the ability to follow a scent, which is important to use when training. Despite its formidable appearance, the Bloodhound has a good-natured character. The disadvantages include innate stubbornness, which an experienced owner can cope with. When caring, it is important to pay special attention to the folds on the body and the eyes, which are prone to disease. You can buy a puppy for 15,000 ₽.
Bull Terrier
This smooth-haired breed has received a bad reputation, which in fact turns out to be wrong. Bull Terriers require strict training, but with the right approach, they become true family friends. They are able to show amazing affection, warmth and love to play together, but at the same time they do not tolerate loneliness well. The animal needs frequent physical exercise, without which they become overly active and uncontrollable. Today, standard and dwarf varieties have been bred, differing in size. Price from 50,000 ₽.
Hungarian Vizsla
A smooth-haired dog breed that combines elegant appearance and hunting qualities. They are loved by their owners for their golden coat that is pleasant to the touch, their chocolate-colored nose, docile nature and unpretentiousness. For a comfortable life for an animal, regular exercise and communication with the owner are required. The Hungarian Vizsla can often be found not only at exhibitions, but also in agility and coursing competitions. The breed is suitable for families and first-time owners. Cost from 50,000 ₽.
Pitbull
The American Pit Bull Terrier is an example of a sociable dog with pronounced protective qualities. Originally bred for fighting, the pit bull is today used as a family pet. He is distinguished by a strong-willed character, a penchant for independence and love for people. The breed is recommended for experienced owners; proper training, plenty of physical activity and early socialization are important. You can buy a puppy from 25,000 ₽.
Thai Ridgeback
The oldest breed of smooth-haired dogs, which are the national treasure of Thailand. This is an amazing animal that combines strength, a balanced psyche and intelligence. The Thai Ridgeback is easy to train, but regular training is important to keep in shape. The dog easily gets along in a small apartment with daily walks. The dog does not tolerate loneliness well; in the absence of its owner, it howls and damages furniture, which is important to stop from childhood. Price from 40,000 ₽.
Pharaoh Hound
According to the FCI classification, this smooth-haired breed is classified as both a greyhound and a primitive dog. The dog has elegant exterior features; its head is often compared to Anubis. Height can reach 63 cm at the withers, but larger sizes are achieved thanks to long limbs. Caring for a Pharaoh Hound is simple, but it requires insulation in winter during walks, since the undercoat is not developed. Representatives of the breed are easy to train and unpretentious in maintenance, which makes them excellent companions. Cost from 50,000 ₽.
Shar Pei
Originally a universal dog breed, today they are more often adopted as a companion. The Shar Pei has a remarkable appearance - an unusual head shape, signature folds on the body and a dark shade of the tongue. Despite their plush appearance, these smooth-haired dogs have a complex character. These are stubborn animals prone to independence. Training requires a lot of effort, because the Shar Pei will do what he wants. The dog requires early socialization and careful care of the folds. Price from 15,000 ₽.
Estonian hound
Despite the small distribution of the breed, these smooth-haired dogs are highly valued among hunters. They combine unique unpretentiousness and working skills. The Estonian Hound is easy to train and quickly learns all standard commands. Caring for a smooth coat is simple - you just need to wash it and occasionally comb out dead hairs. The dog has no tendency towards aggression and destruction, and easily finds a common language with children. You can buy a puppy from 10,000 ₽.
Doberman
The maximum weight of an adult dog is 45 kg. The height at the withers is up to 72 cm. The black smooth-haired Doberman dog . This unique animal is very easy to train, but the intervention of a competent dog handler is desirable. The Doberman looks very serious: black or brown shiny fur, erect ears, muscular body and unusually intelligent eyes.
The Doberman is always on the alert. If he or his owners are in danger, the dog will rush into battle without hesitation. He perceives his family as something “his own.” The Doberman rides in the car in “his” seat, plays with “his” children, sleeps in “his” place.
A balanced character is a consequence of many years of selection, because initially Dobermans were raised as service dogs, endlessly loyal to their owners and unjustifiably cruel to strangers. Today, devotion has been preserved, but cruelty has been replaced by intelligence and common sense.
The owner must make an effort to become a real authority for the Doberman. Without this, you will never achieve 100% obedience even from such a trainable breed. While still a puppy, a Doberman must see its owner as a like-minded person and best friend, so never scold the dog “after” for chewing a doorframe or other pieces of furniture or clothing. Teach and prohibit for the future, and not after the “crime” has been committed.
Breeds of large smooth-haired dogs
Large and giant breeds are recommended for experienced owners. Keeping is recommended in a private house or large apartment. There are also disadvantages - the need for a large volume of feed, shorter life expectancy.
Boxer
The German Boxer is a smooth-haired breed of working dog. They are often kept as a pet because of their calm nature, love for people and unpretentiousness. With the right approach, a boxer can become a nanny, a security guard or a companion. Intense endurance exercise and daily walks are recommended. Short hair is easy to care for, requiring only weekly washing. You can buy a puppy from 35,000 ₽.
Bullmastiff
A young breed of smooth-haired dogs of the Molosser group, bred in England at the end of the 19th century. This is a large and strong animal with developed muscles, due to which they create an intimidating appearance. Despite their powerful dimensions, they are distinguished by dexterity and agility. The Bullmastiff is not prone to aggression, but there are cases in history of attacks on people, so strict training is required. The color of the short coat can be red, fawn or brindle. Price from 15,000 ₽.
Weimaraner
Among gunhounds, the Weimaraner is distinguished by its aristocratic appearance and unique silver shade of coat. This is an obedient, trainable and intelligent dog. She is often kept as a pet; care for the animal is minimal. To prolong life and avoid the development of obesity, serious physical activity is required. This smooth-haired breed is suitable for both beginners and experienced owners. You can buy a puppy from 30,000 ₽.
Dalmatian
Croatian breed of smooth-haired dogs with a contradictory character. At the height of the popularity of the children's film, Dalmatians became popular, which led to their uncontrolled breeding. This has affected the overall health of the breed; today many puppies are born with serious pathologies. The Dalmatian is suitable for experienced owners; despite their developed intelligence, they are prone to stubbornness and aggression. They need a lot of exercise and frequent walks. Price from 5000 ₽.
Doberman
A smooth-haired breed of working dog that combines strength, grace and fearlessness. The natural intelligence of these animals allows them to cope even with complex exercises, and physical activity is often used in competitions. Despite the Doberman's amenability to training, a strict approach is required; if you let the dog go, it can become dangerous to others. The dog does not require care, but you need to pay attention to the condition of the joints and kidneys. The cost of a puppy is from 10,000 ₽.
Kurzhaar
This smooth-haired breed is a typical pointer - a dog for gun hunting. Over many years of breeding, they have not lost their working instincts and are still used by hunters. This is a slender and lean animal with a spotted color and short coat. The shorthaired pointer is famous for its efficiency, unpretentiousness and focus on people. In addition, they enjoy good health. Price from 40,000 ₽.
Dogo Canario
A rare breed of guard dogs with a formidable guard appearance. These are smooth-haired animals weighing up to 65 kg. They are valued for their even-tempered nature, self-confidence and ability to learn. Despite their fighting background, they are not prone to unmotivated aggression and, when trained, often demonstrate phlegmatic behavior. In cold climates, indoor keeping with regular walks is recommended. You can buy a Dogo Canary for 50,000 ₽.
Cane Corso
The history of the breed begins in Ancient Rome, the exterior and working qualities of the Canne Corso were restored artificially. These are large animals weighing up to 50 kg, with developed muscles. The dog has a balanced character and protective instincts, but in recent years they are more often taken into the role of a companion. Cane Corsos are phlegmatic, but in their work they demonstrate strength and activity. When choosing this breed, it is important to carefully study the litter and the parents of the puppies; congenital pathologies may occur. Cost from 35,000 ₽.
German dog
One of the largest smooth-haired dogs in the world, males can grow up to 90 cm at the withers. Despite its formidable appearance, the Great Dane is a balanced and obedient animal that is easy to train. They do not express aggression towards people, love communication and get along with children, but due to their size they can cause injury to them. The Great Dane is easy to care for, but requires veterinary supervision to prolong its life. On sale you can find fawn, brindle, merle, black and blue puppies, price from 50,000 ₽.
Neapolitan Mastiff
A massive and powerful dog, notable for its thick, folded skin. Behind the menacing appearance lies a pliable animal that cannot imagine life without its owner. The breed is not recommended for beginners; in the early stages, training requires a lot of time and skill - the mastiff can express stubbornness and independent behavior. When caring, it is important to pay attention to the condition of the folds in which water and dirt accumulate. Cost from 30,000 ₽.
Rottweiler
A German breed of smooth-haired dogs bred for work. Due to their versatility, they are highly valued among breeders, and puppies are often chosen as family pets. The Rottweiler learns quickly and has a stable psyche. They are unpretentious, but intense training is a must. Price from 18,000 ₽.
Tosa Inu
The birthplace of the breed is Japan, where the Tosa Inu has been bred for fighting since ancient times. Today these are rare animals that are kept as companions. These are large, smooth-haired dogs weighing up to 90 kg, distinguished by a combination of fearlessness and self-confidence. The Tosa Inu has a complex character; it requires proper upbringing, early socialization and serious physical activity. Puppies with excellent pedigree can be purchased in Europe and Japan.
Italian Greyhound
The maximum weight of an adult dog is 5 kg. The height at the withers is up to 38 cm. Looking at Italian Greyhounds, you begin to understand what true grace is. These miniature cat substitutes look very elegant and sophisticated, but have a rather playful character.
Their behavior is unpredictable: today the Italian greyhound is a model of love and affection, devotion and obedience, and tomorrow a little imp breaks through, who, in a fit of unbridled delight, completely forgets that he is supposed to listen to his owner.
The whole point of an Italian greyhound's life is constant contact with humans. She will not put up with the fact that you want to spend the evening in quiet solitude. The attention of an Italian greyhound is pleasant, but sometimes too intrusive. However, these dogs are too smart, they will not bother you for hours, but will find something else interesting to do.
For example, they will chew the owner's slippers or organize a hunting season for a guinea pig. If rodents or birds already live in your house, then it is better to refuse to buy an Italian Greyhound - its hunting instincts break out every now and then. But Italian greyhounds live peacefully side by side with cats and other dogs, showing no signs of aggression or jealousy. These naughty creatures also get along well with children.
Smooth-haired dogs for apartments
When choosing a breed of smooth-haired dog for an apartment, it is important to take into account not only its appearance, but also its temperament and size. For active owners, medium and large dogs that need training are suitable, for example, Rottweiler, all smooth-haired terriers and hounds, pit bull, Thai Ridgeback.
For a small apartment, it is best to choose miniature smooth-haired breeds: Chihuahua, Prague rat or pug. If you live in a big house, then you can safely get any giants and large dogs, for example, Great Dane, German boxer, mastiff.
Pug
The maximum weight of an adult dog is 8 kg. The height at the withers is up to 32 cm. The pug is a very popular dog breed in modern society. The red, smooth-haired muzzle with black tan evokes affection just by its appearance. Brown round eyes, a snub nose, cute folds and a ringed tail are what make pugs stand out from other breeds.
The dogs are ideal for indoor keeping by inexperienced owners. They are absolutely devoid of aggression towards people and other animals. They do not need long walks; the older the dog gets, the less active it is, although pug puppies do not mind running and frolicking.
Among decorative dog breeds, you rarely find such a calm and even slightly phlegmatic representative as the pug. Dogs by nature have a completely healthy psyche, but long-term loneliness can provoke depression and melancholy. Even your neighbors can look after your pug—a representative of the breed willingly makes contact with strangers.
Pugs are perhaps the biggest treats in the canine world. For their favorite treat, they are ready to hypnotize the owner with their gaze for as long as desired. But it would be a big mistake to succumb to the pug’s charm and give him a piece from the master’s table.
Firstly, Pugs are prone to obesity, so their diet must be carefully balanced. Secondly, if you give in once, be prepared to watch the beggar during every meal.
Pugs are definitely not suitable for people who sleep very lightly. These babies are snoring champions. And when they are not sleeping, pugs grunt, sigh and make any sounds except the usual barking. They begin to bark very rarely, in moments of particular emotional instability.
Briefly about the main thing
- Smooth-haired dog breeds are easy to care for; there are no tangles left on the body, and shedding occurs to a lesser extent.
- All smooth-haired dogs can be divided into three groups according to size: small, medium and large.
- When choosing a dog to keep, it is important to take into account the characteristics of the breed, your needs and living conditions.
- Many smooth-haired dogs need clothing when walking in winter; street keeping is not recommended due to the lack of a pronounced undercoat.
What is the best breed of smooth-haired dog? Share your opinion in the comments to the article.
Flaws
In addition to significant advantages, dogs of smooth-haired breeds have several disadvantages that should be taken into account:
- hard hairs of wool digging into fabric and upholstered furniture;
- the need for warm clothes for walking in autumn and winter;
- complex execution of a special hairstyle for an exhibition.
Calm
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A wonderful breed in all respects: quiet, calm, intelligent, but affectionate. They do not take up much space and are very attached to their owner.
Scottish Terrier
Who doesn't know this charmer? The Scottish Terrier is a breed that fits perfectly into the conditions of a city apartment. In addition, they do not need to be combed daily, but trimming is required once every 5-6 months.
A special plus is given to Scotch for its character: it does not require attention, does not bark for no reason and does not spoil things, and remains alone in the apartment almost the entire day without any problems. But for this, the dog will be happy to get long and leisurely walks with his beloved owner or mistress!
Whippet
The graceful English Greyhound occupies an intermediate position between the large Greyhounds and the small Italian Greyhounds. The height of whippets is 44 – 51 cm, body weight is up to 13 kg.
Owners see pure merit in their pets. Whippets are clean, do not smell, rarely bark, and are well trained. They behave friendly at home and get along with children.
Whippets are natural runners. In a straight line they reach speeds of up to 70 km/h.
Pinchers
In the 19th century, hardy, energetic pinschers lived in stables. They served as guards and rat catchers, accompanied passenger and mail stagecoaches, tirelessly running tens of kilometers a day. Now they have turned into ideal residents of city apartments, friendly and sociable.
German pinscher
Smart, obedient dogs 45–50 cm tall, weighing up to 20 kg. The smooth, shiny coat is colored solid red-brown or black with bright tan. German Pinschers became the founders of other popular breeds in their group: miniature miniature pinschers and large Dobermans.
Austrian Pinscher
A versatile farm companion dog with the skills of a shepherd, guard, and rat catcher. Height at the withers is 42 – 50 cm. Colors are red-brown, black and tan. Purebred Austrian Pinschers are rarely found outside their homeland.