Small Munsterlander
The Small Munsterlander is described by the AKC as intelligent, devoted, self-confident, a member of the Miscellaneous Class, originally from Germany.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 20.5-21 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 40-60 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Devoted / Self-Confident [1] |
| AKC group | Miscellaneous Class [1] |
| Origin | Germany [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 234 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
While Small Munsterlanders make wonderful family companions, they do require frequent exercise and stimulation. The breed was born to hunt and that is the task they are happiest at. This is an all-purpose, versatile hunting breed that was developed to hunt, point, retrieve, and track game. [1]
Grooming
Occasional brushings will maintain the quality of the coat with the occasional bath to keep them clean and looking their best. Small Munsterlanders are seasonal shedders and as such it is important to maintain their coats more frequently in the late spring and early fall. Their nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Like all breeds, there may be some small health issues, but conscientious breeders in both the United States and Europe have made a concerted effort to maintain the health of the breed. Some dogs may be faced with these health challenges in their lives, but the vast majority of Small Munsterlanders are healthy dogs. Regular veterinary care and proper feeding are vital to your dog's health. Yearly DHLPP vaccinations, rabies shots, a monthly heartworm preventative regimen, and, in many parts of the country, a Lyme Disease vaccination, should not be neglected. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Hip and Elbow Certification. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- It ranked No. 234 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Germany as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Hip and Elbow Certification. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 4/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Small Munsterlanders live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Small Munsterlander get?
AKC breed information lists height 20.5-21 inches and weight 40-60 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Small Munsterlander?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Small Munsterlander, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.