The small spaniel belongs to group 7 of this classification, it is part of the pointing dogs. This group corresponds to hunting dogs whose function is to search for game by instinctively stopping when they have found it to make way to the hunter. They then point their noses in the direction of the game. More precisely, the small Münster spaniel belongs to section 1.2 of pointing dogs, namely continental spaniel-type pointing dogs.

The small Münster spaniel was used mainly in Westphalia from the 18th century. A versatile dog, since this spaniel tackled the most diverse tasks from the end of the 18th century, notably hunting, which was his second nature. This breed was also used to drive livestock and guard houses from possible visits. In the 19th century, the latter experienced crossings with langhaar in the city of Münster. This small spaniel, however, stands out from the Large Münster Spaniel despite the fact that they have the same geographical origin and that they were both crossed with langhaar.

The little spaniel is, as its name suggests, “small”. At least, he is not strictly speaking one of the small dogs but he is small for a spaniel. It is therefore a medium-sized dog with balanced proportions, with a powerful and harmonious posture which gives an impression of nobility and elegance. This spaniel is a breed that measures between 50 to 56 cm for males and 48 to 54 cm for females. As for their weight, it generally varies between 18 and 23 kg. Its body is straight, with the top line slightly drooping. He has a firm, well-muscled back, his rump is long and broad as well as well-muscled. Her stomach is dry, which gives her an elegant appearance. Its chest is quite high and long and its ribs are well sprung. Its tail, of medium length, is garnished with a long fringe, the tip of which is white. It is carried horizontally when standing up, and drooping when resting. The ears of this spaniel are fringed and set high, they are notably wide, pointed and drooping. Her skin is smooth and tight, without wrinkles. Its eyes, of medium size, are preferably dark brown. They are neither protruding nor sunken in their sockets. Shiny, thick, mid-length hair that is rather smooth or very little wavy. The thickness of its coat allows it to resist water or other bad weather and also makes it less susceptible to injury. Its coat is brown and white, with large brown spots on the body and the limbs are white with brown speckles. It also has fawn spots (dark red-brown) on the muzzle and around the eye.

The Little Münsterlander is a robust dog. His health does not pose any particular problem, congenital problems being very rare in this breed. However, this breed would be more particularly susceptible to ear infections, hip dysplasia and even skin problems. To avoid hip dysplasia, it is important to protect the dog well during its growth by limiting too frequent going up and down stairs, for example. You should also ensure that your dog is well fed with a quality diet and given plenty of exercise to minimize possible health problems.

The Münsterlander is a hunting dog, field dog and of course a companion dog. In fact, he seems to have a second nature for hunting; he acts very recklessly. Endowed with a passionate and inexhaustible predatory instinct, it is very reactive towards game. He is also very intelligent and learns very quickly, and if you train him constantly he will impress you. Very balanced dog, with a stable character. Attentive, playful and friendly with humans, he is a very good family dog. Gentle breed, he is easy to socialize. Clean by nature, the little Münster Spaniel tends to seek cleanliness for its environment from a very young age. Very versatile dog, since it easily adapts to different climates and terrains. He can live in an apartment but only if he has daily walks, after all he is a hunting dog, so he really needs to exercise. They will need a lot of daily exercise to tame them, even if they are obedient by nature. They must be trained from a young age and handled gently to enable their proper development. They get along well with other dogs and members of the family, but you have to be careful with other animals, they could mistake them for prey.