The Weimaraner's written history begins around 1880, when this breed was first exhibited at a Berlin, Germany dog show, where they were referred to as "l'mongrels". The Grand Duke Karl August of Weimar (Germany), wanted to develop a multipurpose dog.  It is speculated that he used a number of dog breeds to accomplish his end purpose, a dog with  the ability to work with speed, efficiency, and with endurance.  This dog also was to be a companion to the hunter in the field and at home. It's nickname is the "Gray Ghost"; this comes from not only the Weimaraner's color, but also its ability to be quick, using an almost cat-like stealth while in the field, combined with a silent, almost shadow-like way of working.
     In 1896, the delegate commission finally accepted the Weimaraner as a distinct and separate breed after it was given sufficient evidence. It was no longer referred to as "l'mongrel".  In the meantime, the German Weimaraner Club had been started by a few amateur sportsmen.  These men wanted to breed this dog strictly for sport, not for profit.  Therefore, a rule was made that no one was allowed to buy a Weimaraner without first becoming a member of the Club. In 1929, Howard Knight, of  Providence, RI (USA), became a member of the German Club and was permitted to come back to the U.S. with two Weimaraners.  Ultimately, Mr. Knight was instrumental in the founding of the Weimaraner Club of America.
     After World War II ended, many soldiers brought home stories of this wonderful, strangely colored dog known as the Weimaraner.  As people heard of these stories many wanted this new Wonder Dog.  The 1950's all but destroyed the Weimaraner breed.  It is said that, "the best bred dogs were unable to live up to the hyperbole that made the breed famous, and the mass-produced stock (from puppy mills) barely qualified as good companions".
     Since that time, breeders have struggled to recover this magnificient hunting and companion dog.  Almost all that breed this dog also hunt with the dog.  Their attitude is the only reason to breed is with the intention of improving the breed.  Within six months a Weimaraner will go from a 3 pound puppy to a 70 pound dog with a mind of its own.  It is not a plaything, nor should ownership be frivalous. Without proper training and socialization, this dog can become a neurotic, problem dog and almost impossible to manage.

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