The German origin of the Weimaraner has been an important factor in the carefully controlled development of this breed. Germany has for many years been a leader in Europe as far as carefully controlling the selection of breeding stock. Breeders who are mindful of the quality of breeding stock are aware that a dog of German origin is usually considered to be of the best descent. The Weimaraner is an original German breed that came originally from the court of Weimar. The breed was highly prized as a superior hunting dog, bred to stalk deer and trail and hunt bear and wild boar. Later the dog began to be used as a bird dog since it showed such a great propensity for this sport.