Pinscher

In the twenty-first century they are commonly kept as companion animals.

[1] Since the mid-19th century, breeders stopped crossbreeding these coat types, and with the formation of the German Pinscher-Schnauzer-Club (PSK) in 1895, advanced them to distinct breed varieties.

[2] There are several theories on the etymology of the word Pinscher; that it derives from French "pincer", meaning "to seize" and "to nip",[1] or "to bite" and "to grip" which are possibly related to their function of catching vermin on the farm,[3] that it derives from English "pinch" referring to their clipped ears,[4] "fox terrier" type of dog (considered that it was a descriptive term meaning "settler" or "terrier" dog method of working, and not heritage[2]),[5] or biter,[citation needed] although the verb "pinch" has the same early 13th century Old North French *pinchier derivation, which itself possibly originates from Vulgar Latin.

In addition, individual breeders often attempt the creation of new breeds which they may call pinschers.

There are a very large number of sporting clubs, breed clubs, and internet-based breed registries and businesses in which dogs may be registered under whatever name the owner or seller wishes.