Are you thinking of getting a Weimaraner? It is important to do some research to help decide if this breed suits your lifestyle.

Crate training is a must- as is obedience training, and daily exercise. This is a 10 - 15 year commitment and should not be taken lightly.

Weimaraners are very smart, very stubborn, and have lots of energy. They are good with kids, although they do tend to (un-intentionally) knock over the little ones during bursts of excitement.

You will need lots of time, patience, energy and determination in order to "tame" this beast. The Weimaraner's "adolescent stage" can sometimes last years. This is probably why many say that the Weimaraner is not a dog for beginners. When trained properly, you will end up with the best darn personal gun dog/canine companion/couch snuggler you've ever had. If you don't follow the training and exercise regimen seriously from the get-go - then by the time your pup is just six months old, you may end up having your home and your life ruled by a wild gray banshee from hell!

Daily vigorous exercise is recommended - Frisbee, jogging, biking, or an off-lead romp in a safe area.

Make sure that you read The Gray Ghost Weaves Its Spell, an excellent comprehensive and concise article about Weimaraners. After that, you may wish to get another opinion about whether you really want to own a Weimaraner. Here are some more words of wisdom that you must read Before You Get a Weimaraner.

If you become convinced that the Weimaraner is indeed the right breed for you, then you need to learn How to Choose a Responsible Breeder. The best place to find responsible breeders is at dog shows and through your local Weimaraner Club. Never buy a dog from a pet store. Pet store dogs come from puppy mills.

You may also want to consider adopting an older Rescue Weimaraner (check out Joanne's story). Visit the DC Area Weim Rescue and the Weimaraner Club of America's Rescue Website.

After you obtain your Weimaraner, your breeder is your best resource for information about your dog. The next best resource is The Weimaraner Manual.