A medium to long coat that lies close and smooth or slightly wavy, never curly, with feathering on the legs and tail. The hair on the head stays short.32
Colourswhite with black patches or tickingblue roanblack3
Personality what they are like
An eager, biddable hunting partner that learns quickly and works reliably. It is spirited and full of drive, yet stays sensible rather than nervy.3
Daily activity how busy a day looks
A high-energy working gundog needing more than two hours of exercise a day, ideally including field work, retrieving or swimming.43
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush more than once a week, paying attention to the feathering on the legs and tail.43
Home where they are happiest
Best with an active household and access to open country, forest or water where it can use its hunting skills.34
Company who they like around
A cooperative dog that thrives when it works closely with its handler and family.3
The story where it all began
It descends from medieval bird and hawking dogs that later became the long-haired German pointers. When the German Longhair club stopped accepting black-and-white dogs in 1909, fanciers kept them going, and a club founded in 1919 began registered breeding with 83 foundation dogs in its 1922 stud book.324
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Its head is always solid black, sometimes with a small white blaze or snip.3
2
It is expected to hunt in field, forest and water, both before and after the shot.3
3
The breed's first stud book in 1922 was built on just 83 dogs.2
4
Its black-and-white colouring was once the reason it was turned away by the German Longhair club, and it then became the breed's trademark.4
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is named for the Münsterland region of northern Westphalia, Germany, where it originated.2
I wake to the scent of dew and the call of the morning. My human fills my bowl and we head out. The fields stretch ahead, and I race through them, my nose full of rabbit and fox. I find a stick and bring it back, tail wagging. After a dip in the stream, we return home. I curl by the fire, dreaming of tomorrow's run. It's a simple, happy life.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 118, Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.2 Continental pointing dogs, spaniel type; definitive recognition 20 December 1954; subject to a working trial; standard published 29 October 2013.1
Popularity German registrations averaged about 336 dogs a year from 2009 to 2023, around 0.4% of all German registrations.2
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Large Münsterländer. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Large Münsterländer tip
Large Münsterländers are very active dogs that thrive on high-quality, high-protein treats used for training, but keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories to avoid weight gain. Because the breed can be prone to urate stones, avoid high-purine treats like organ meats and ask your vet for guidance.
A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.
You need
120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)
How
Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Give to your dog as a supervised treat.
How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Large Münsterländer, and at what times?
Adult Large Münsterländers should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feeding times can vary based on your schedule; your vet can help set a consistent routine. Always follow the portion guidance on the food label.5
What should a Large Münsterländer eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, chocolate, onion, garlic, and raw dough. Avoid any human foods from the toxic list and consult your vet for a complete diet plan.6
How often should I bathe a Large Münsterländer?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Large Münsterländer need brushing?
Brush your Large Münsterländer at least once a week, paying special attention to the feathering on the legs and tail. Furry Diary's plan suggests weekly brushing, and more frequent brushing may be needed during shedding seasons.34Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Large Münsterländer's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 28 days or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you the proper technique.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Large Münsterländer need?
This high-energy gundog needs more than two hours of exercise daily, ideally including field work, retrieving, or swimming. An active household with access to open country or water is best for their wellbeing.34
How do I look after a Large Münsterländer's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth two to three times a week (daily is ideal) using only dog-safe toothpaste. Check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and dry them gently; never push anything into the ear canal.7Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Large Münsterländer live?
Large Münsterländers typically live around 10 years or more. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long and active life.4
Is a Large Münsterländer good with children and other pets?
Their sensible and cooperative temperament usually makes them good with children and other pets when properly socialized. However, individual temperaments vary, so it's best to ask a good breeder about the specific dog.3
Can a Large Münsterländer be left alone?
This breed thrives on close interaction with its family and may struggle with long periods alone. It varies by individual, so ask a good breeder about the dog's personality and consider gradual alone-time training.3
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Small Münsterländer
German Longhaired Pointer
English Setter