The German Pinscher is the "middle" dog of the Pinscher breeds of Germany. The largest of the Pinscher dogs is the well known Doberman, while the smallest is the equally well known Miniature Pinscher. The "Standard" Pinscher is simply known as the "Pinscher" by the Kennel club of Great Britain and is called the Standard Pinscher in its home country of Germany. The word "pinscher" in German means terrier. The word "pincer" in French means "biter". Either of these terms is an appropriate definition of the original functions of the German Pinscher, for it is as tenacious as a terrier, skillful and effective as a ratter and equally effective as a family watch dog that will aggressively attack any perceived threat.