Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Münsterländer breed developed in Germany in the Münster region in the 19th century. It descended from old pointing dogs used for bird hunting. During selective breeding, the breed split into the Small and Large Münsterländer, differing in size and working characteristics. Thanks to their versatility, obedience, and endurance, Münsterländers quickly became valued as reliable hunting companions and have retained this role to the present day.
General Appearance
The Münsterländer is a harmonious, strong yet elegant dog with well-developed musculature. The body is slightly elongated, and the outline is balanced. Movements are free, wide, and confident. The expression is lively and attentive. The coat is of medium length, dense, with feathering. Color is spotted or roan. According to the ICCF standard, the type must reflect functionality, endurance, and the ability to work in various conditions as a versatile hunting dog.
Important Proportions
Under ICCF standards, the body length slightly exceeds the height at the withers. Chest depth is approximately half the height. The head is proportional to the body with a moderate stop. The muzzle length is roughly equal to the skull length. Limbs are of medium length and well developed, ensuring a wide, confident trot. The tail continues the line of the back. All proportions are aimed at an optimal combination of strength, speed, and stamina.
Behavior and Character
The Münsterländer is a friendly, energetic, and intelligent dog with well-defined working qualities. Under the ICCF system, it must be balanced, obedient, and quick to learn. The breed is people-oriented, easily establishes contact, and has a strong hunting instinct, yet with proper training remains manageable. The character is lively, active, and free of aggression. The breed gets along well with family, loves to work, and requires sufficient physical and mental activity.
Head
The Münsterländer’s head is proportional to the body, slightly elongated, with a smooth transition from forehead to muzzle. The skull is moderately broad, the cheeks are defined but not coarse. The stop is noticeable but not sharp. The muzzle is straight; the head musculature is well developed. The overall appearance of the head is harmonious and expressive, reflecting the dog’s working qualities and temperament.
Facial Part
The muzzle is strong and of medium width, tapering evenly toward the nose. The nasal bridge is straight; lips are tight-fitting without looseness. The nose is large and pigmented; the teeth are strong with a scissor bite. The facial part must be dry and well defined, with an intelligent, attentive expression that highlights the dog’s friendliness and lively character.
Eyes
The eyes are oval, medium-sized, and slightly slanted. The expression is lively, attentive, and intelligent. The color is predominantly dark brown. Eyelids are tight and fully pigmented. Light or protruding eyes, loose eyelids, or improper set are unacceptable. The eyes create the characteristic expression of concentration and friendliness.
Ears
The ears are set high, of medium length, lying close to the head and slightly rounded at the ends. They are covered with soft, dense hair, without excessive length or coarseness. The shape and placement emphasize head expression and the breed’s working type. Too short, stiff, or excessively long ears are unacceptable.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, dry and muscular, smoothly transitioning into the shoulder girdle. It has no dewlap or excess skin and widens properly toward the withers. It ensures free head movement and a harmonious connection with the body. It must support the smooth silhouette lines, reflecting strength and endurance.
Body
The body is strong and slightly elongated; the back is straight and firm. The chest is deep, ribs moderately arched, the loin short and muscular. The croup is wide and slightly sloped. The underline is slightly tucked up. The body construction provides stability, balance, and freedom of movement, combining strength with elegance.
Tail
The tail is of medium length, moderately coated with feathering. In motion it is carried horizontally or slightly above, continuing the topline. Breaks, excessive curl, or low set are not acceptable. The tail must be functional, harmonizing with the body and highlighting the breed’s working type.
Forelimbs
The forelimbs are straight, parallel, with strong bone. Shoulders are long and sloping, elbows tight, pasterns strong. Feet are oval and compact. The limbs provide free, confident movement, rhythmic trot, and stability when working in the field.
Hindlimbs
The hindlimbs are muscular and strong with well-defined angulation. Thighs are broad, hocks strong and low-set. Feet are oval and compact. The hindquarters provide powerful drive, ensuring endurance and stability, combining strength and elasticity.
Gait and Movement
Movements are free, wide, and springy. The trot is even, with good reach of the forelimbs and strong rear drive. The topline remains stable in motion. The gait demonstrates endurance, energy, and correct structure, reflecting the breed’s harmony and functionality.
Coat
The coat is medium-long, dense, slightly wavy, with feathering on the ears, tail, chest, and limbs. The undercoat is thick and protects against moisture and cold. The coat is functional, elastic, and pleasant to the touch, emphasizing the dog’s strength, health, and working qualities.
Acceptable Colors
Acceptable are spotted and roan patterns: black-and-white, black-roan, brown-roan, and brown-and-white with ticking. Solid colors are not permitted.
Size
Males are 58–65 cm at the withers; females 54–60 cm, weight 20–30 kg. Size and color must preserve harmony, functionality, and an aesthetically correct appearance consistent with the ICCF standard.
Faults
Faults include a coarse or overly light head, weak body, narrow chest, insufficient rear angulation, soft back, overly short or excessively long coat, light eyes, insufficient pigmentation of the nose or eyelids, aggression or shyness. Faults also include incorrect bite, toeing in/out, poor movement, insufficient musculature, or imbalance of proportions.
Disqualification
Dogs with evident structural defects are disqualified: cryptorchidism, incorrect bite, missing teeth, completely depigmented nose, aggression or panic fear. Also disqualified are dogs with solid coat colors, albinism, extreme deviation from size limits, tail deformities, or severely incorrect movement. Dogs without ICCF documentation are not allowed for breeding or show participation.
Important Notes
The Münsterländer must demonstrate a combination of working qualities and a balanced character. Evaluation is based on functionality, proportion, and endurance. Special attention is given to movement, head expression, and coat quality. Dogs must have a complete ICCF pedigree confirming origin, health, and adherence to breed requirements.
Conclusion
The Münsterländer is a versatile hunting breed combining intelligence, activity, and friendliness. The ICCF standard emphasizes the need for harmonious conformation, correct character, and strong working abilities. Participation in shows and access to breeding are possible only with official ICCF documents confirming origin and compliance with breed requirements. The breed suits active owners and performs excellently in hunting and dog sports.
