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Large Munsterlanders are typical hunting spaniels that are unaffected by wind, weather, and wet conditions. They resemble their close relative, the German Longhaired Pointer, as they were originally only listed as a color of this breed. In extensive research, we find out whether the breed could also be something for owners who are not actively involved in hunting. You can find out everything you need to know in the breed overview.
Identifying Features of the Large Munsterlander
Except for a few centimeters difference in size and the striking coat color, the Large Munsterlander and the German Longhaired Pointer are similar in many respects. The dogs belong to the pointing dogs of the spaniel type, which means they have very weatherproof fur and wide, long, hairy floppy ears. The German Longhaired Pointer reaches a height at the withers of between 60 and 66 cm, the Large Munsterlander is ideally between 60 and 65 cm tall, bitches should be slightly smaller and narrower with a height between 58 and 63 cm. The average weight of 30 kilograms is specified in the FCI breed standard for both sexes.
The Large Munsterlander from head to tail
- A distinctive feature of the head shape is the relatively long muzzle, which is supported by a pronounced chin musculature. The lips are relatively loose but do not hang beyond the corner of the mouth. The stop is hardly pronounced.
- The eyes are relatively small with an intelligent expression. Amber eyes are common, dark eyes are preferred.
- Typical spaniel ears: They are set high on the skull, are very wide, and hang over the chin. The tip is rounded.
- The body is strong and slender with close-fitting skin and a relatively broad chest. The lower profile line is slightly raised.
- The straight and heavily muscled front legs are striking. The hind legs are also straight. The absence of a wolf claw is typical of the breed.
- The tail is well feathered on the underside and has a slight curve (no kink). It is usually carried horizontally or upright.
The coat of the Large Munsterlander
The Large Munsterlander has long feathers on the tail, on the back of the legs, and on the ears, which is typical for spaniels. The hair in these areas should be particularly long and fine. In contrast to the monochrome brown German Longhaired Pointer, they are always black and white, with different variants to be distinguished:
- White with black panels and black polka dots.
- Molded black (many white prickly hairs).
- Black with white markings (snip or blaze).
- The head, including the ears, is black in all Large Munsterlanders.
- Brown roan and brown and white dogs occur but are not approved for breeding.
The Origin of the Large Munsterlander
It was only at the beginning of the 20th century that the Large Munsterlander breed was separated from the German Longhaired Pointer. The reason for this was a difference of opinion among breeders regarding the permissible colors. Since a black and white coat coloration was defined as a fault for the German Longhaired Pointer, but breeders in Münster clearly preferred this coloration, two separate breeds, and associated clubs were proclaimed without further ado. In 1919 the first association for pure breeding of the long-haired, large, black-and-white Munsterlander pointer was founded.
The modern hawk dog
The Central European bird dogs (also called hawk dogs) are considered to be the forerunners of the Large Munsterlander and the German Longhaired Pointer. Illustrations from the 17th century show clear parallels to medieval hunting and herding dogs. Spaniels have been used for hunting purposes for centuries – they are not afraid of water and make excellent gundogs for bird hunting.
Related breeds at a glance
- German longhaired pointer
- Small Munsterlander
- Epagneul Bleu de Picardy
- Epagneul Breton
- Epagneul de Pont-Audemer
- Epagneul Picard
- Stabyhoun
Nature and Character of the Large Munsterlander
The Large Munsterlander is a working trial breed. This means that breeding animals are primarily selected for their suitability for hunting. The dogs are therefore particularly obedient, active, and sharp. They indicate big game and special finds through the typical pointing posture, which purely companion dogs also instinctively use for communication.
You should expect that with a Large Munsterlander
- His strong hunting instinct cannot be stopped.
- The Munsterlander is very active and needs a lot of exercises.
- He never shows aggression towards his owner or his pack.
- He is very affectionate with children.
- He is also friendly towards strangers.
- He will defend himself and his pack when it counts.
- Large Munsterlanders love the water and are good swimmers.
- The dogs hunt according to tracks, so they tend to bark if they notice anything unusual.
Who is the Large Munsterlander suitable for?
Above all, the Large Munsterlander is and remains a hunting dog and should be allowed to live out and develop this disposition. If he is not used for professional purposes, he needs a lot of variety. So he’s only good with families that can provide him with several hours of active playtime per day. Single owners can hardly meet this great need for exercise and attention. The Large Munsterlander is easy to socialize with cats and other dogs. Cats (especially strange neighbor cats) often have a hunting instinct and the dog follows them over the garden fence.