Weimaraner Calculators

The Weimaraner — the "Grey Ghost" — is a German hunting breed developed in the early 19th century for hunting large game and later adapted for bird hunting. They are distinguished by their unique silver-grey coat, amber or blue-grey eyes, and intense, athletic build. They are a high-performance breed that demands an active lifestyle.

Weimaraners weigh 23–36 kg and live 11–14 years. They are extremely affectionate and form intense bonds with their families — they do not tolerate being left alone and develop severe separation anxiety when under-exercised or isolated. This breed is not suitable for owners who work full-time away from home.

Bloat (GDV) — High Risk Breed

Weimaraners are deep-chested and at high risk for GDV. Studies suggest the breed has a lifetime GDV risk of approximately 12–15%. Prophylactic gastropexy is strongly recommended at time of neutering. Feed two meals daily from floor level, restrict vigorous exercise for 2 hours after eating, and know the signs: unproductive retching, distended abdomen, sudden deterioration.

Hip Dysplasia and Hyperuricosuria

Hip dysplasia is present in a significant proportion of Weimaraners. OFA hip screening is standard for breeding stock. Hyperuricosuria — elevated uric acid levels — predisposes to urate urinary stones, which can cause recurrent urinary blockages. DNA testing is available. A low-purine diet helps manage affected dogs.

Exercise Requirements and Calorie Needs

Active Weimaraners can need twice the calories of a sedentary pet-level dog. Use our Calorie Calculator with accurate activity level inputs — the difference between "low" and "very active" for this breed can be 600+ kcal per day.