The small Munsterlander descends from an elite dog used by nobility in Munster, Germany to hunt small game with falcons in upland areas. In the early 1900s the breed was further developed to track large game and retrieve from land and water.
It has a strong and harmonious build with a long muzzle, upright stance, flowing outlines and a glossy and dense coat in variations of brown and white. An intelligent, driven and even-tempered dog, it works in close connection to its handler in all phases of the hunt. It is an affectionate companion in active working homes, friendly with strangers and other dogs, but may be too exuberant for the very young and elderly.
The small Munsterlander is a popular all-round hunting dog in central Europe. In the UK it is an excellent choice for rough shooters and can be used for wildfowling, falconry and beating or picking up at a local shoot.