The Large Munsterlander from Munster in Germany was only introduced into Australia in the early 1980s. Bred in Germany as multi-purpose gundogs, Munsterlanders are required to hunt, point and retrieve game. With an excellent nose and stamina, working equally well on land or in water, the Munsterlander is a keen worker, and is easily taught. Classified as a utility gundog, the breed is growing in popularity in Australia.

Origin

The Large Munsterlander’s history shows the struggle it endured to survive. Descended from the German Longhaired Pointer, the black and white pups were refused breed registration and subsequently put down. Those that were pitied were given away to farmers and gamekeepers, who soon proved their working ability.

The German Longhaired Pointer Club finally admitted black and white pups but inexplicably reversed its decision in 1908. However, owners of the dogs met at Haltem rn Munsterland after Westphalia to rename the dogs Larger Munsterlanders and form a breed club. The official breed book was established in 1922 and only black and white dogs could be entered.

World War Il took its toll with only six kennels known to have survived. Careful and selective breed programs by breed controller Herr Egon Vornholt re-established the breed, twice using German Longhaired Pointers to increase the gene pool.

General Appearance

Often confused as a setter or spaniel, the Large Munsterlander is an alert energetic breed with a strong muscular body and a proud, free, long striding springy gait.

The coat should be long and dense not coarse or curly with feathering on the backs of both front and hind legs and on the tail, more so on dogs than bitches. The tail can be entire or docked at the tip. Their head should be solid black, white blaze, snip or star allowed. Their body can be white or blue roan with black patches, flecked, ticked or a combination of these.

Temperament

The Large Munsterlander is loyal, affectionate and trustworthy. Always energetic, he loves life. Munsterlanders are “people dogs” and need regular human contact, an ignored dog will not be a happy dog. Normally a protective breed, they will look after their owners and their territory, be it in the backyard or the car.

Care and Grooming

Regular exercise is a necessity. Brushing and the occasional bath will keep the dog looking good. They shed their coat once or twice a year. the breed rarely suffers from hereditary health problems, grass seeds are the only thing to watch for.