The Large Munsterlander is a versatile hunting dog able to point, track and retrieve game . Unlike some sporting breeds which have split into bench (show) and working lines, most breeders of the LM aim to produce dogs that can hunt, whether or not they also show. Both in the United States as well as abroad (particularly in their home country of Germany) it is considered very important to test the dog’s hunting abilities before breeding, thereby ensuring that future generations will retain these important hunting instincts and traits.
Large Munsterlanders are most prized for their hunting abilities – including being incredibly responsive to the hunter/owner, versatile in different terrain, and exceedingly cooperative. However they are also known for their calm temperaments and bright minds in the home. They can make great family dogs as they are gentle with children and rarely hyperactive (with enough exercise). That said, just because they aren’t hyperactive doesn’t mean they are lazy! These dogs will run, jump and play with the best of them once they are let outside. They love to race, explore and swim (when possible), oftentimes with no regard to how dirty they might become in the midst of their adventures. Taking on this breed means being prepared to have an active (and occasionally messy) lifestyle with your dog! They MUST be exercised every single day, regardless of the weather.
The LM is a large breed that generally lives between 12-13 years. They remain affectionate toward their owners all throughout their lives, and also tend to do very well around other dogs as well. This social dog needs to live inside the home and not kept outside as a kennel dog. Furthermore, kennel dogs rarely get enough exercise and this breed in particular can develop destructive and obnoxious behaviors such as non-stop barking when not given enough stimulation.
The LM is actually an off-shoot of the German Longhaired Pointer. Occasionally black and white puppies would be born in a litter, however in the early 1900’s the breed club decided to no longer allow this color. These black/white dogs eventually formed their own breed which was to become the Large Munsterlander. Like their close cousins they also have a medium-length coat, although color-wise they can range from almost all-white to almost all-black, with many dogs having both colors in either patched, roaned or ticked patterns. The coat serves as protection in the cold and in heavy brush although can be somewhat hindering in very hot temperatures – not only because of bulk/length but also because black dogs “soak up the sun” more than lighter colored breeds. Be mindful if hunting in humid summers.
Although very adaptable in the field, the Large Munsterlander is less adaptable when it comes to suitable living situations and doesn’t tend to do well in apartments. He is simply too big, too playful and requires too much exercise to be happy in a small space. When living in the opposite situation – a ranch, be aware that he may try to hunt birds and small animals. Farm animals may or may not be chased so be prepared to train him not to do so. With a bit of supervision and training, however – the larger the area and the more exposure to hunting, the happier the LM.
The LM is easy to train and picks commands up quickly, which is good because he really needs a job to do in his daily life! If not being taken out hunting on a regular basis, he needs some other form of mental and physical exercise – and obedience training fits that bill. Even if he is going to be hunted with regularly, a solid recall and basic obedience are always recommended. Be aware that this breed can be a bit sensitive and doesn’t do well with harsh training methods. They are also slow to mature so be prepared to spend a little extra time when working with a young dog. Once they mature they become wonderful working dogs and loyal friends.
Photo By Pia C. Groening