American Pointer Breed Description

An Owner's American Pointer Description
I always thought of these dogs as being strictly for the birds. I mean strictly for bird hunting, as pointers or locaters of the bird for the hunter. But it seems that there is more to these fellows than meets the eye. I've been told by several owners of this breed, that these dogs don't consider themselves to be dogs at all, but rather, humans. Or, at least members of the family, the human family that is caring for him.

They love working the field as a hunter but also love being pampered and doted over before a show. It seems that all pointers favor the comforts of the home as well as those who dwell there. They are extremely protective of their domain and will sound an alarm if anything seems to be unusual or out of place. They are excellent with children and will play with them all day long if allowed.

My perception of nothing but a down-to-business, serious, working dog is not totally accurate. Although they take their task seriously while working, this is not the total sum of who this dog is. When he's not working or in a show, he's a fun-loving and mischievous pup at heart. Sometimes he carries this to extremes and develops some bad habits that need to be rooted out if he is to retain his true value as a bird dog.

From all counts that have been conveyed to me, it appears that if a Pointer is to be a house pet, giving him some sort of obedience training would be most advisable. This training, along with developing social skills will help to develop his manners as he matures into a true member of the family.

 

 

Introduction

The American Pointer, believed to be from Spain, was previously known as the Spanish Pointer. This breed can be traced to the Civil War period and was probably brought to the new world by their masters. With proper handling, this breed has no equal in the obedience ring, which is a true test of the versatility of these hunters. American Pointers do not think of themselves as dogs but rather as one of the family. They weigh 44 to 66 lbs. and stand 24-27" at the shoulder. They have minimal grooming needs.

History

The logo of the Westminster Kennel Club, Sensation, is an American Pointer. In fact, that organization was originally founded to develop this wonderful breed. Pointers are more than fast runners - they are smart with a distinctly 'pointer' sense of humor. First pointers are written about during the late middle ages; there are portraits of monarchs of many European countries with packs of these dogs. Breeding since the 1600s has continued to refine and enhance the Pointer; the American variety is amongst the best of the breed.

Description

General Appearance as defined by the AKC Breed Standard (adopted in 1975) notes that the Pointer is bred primarily for sport afield, "...he should unmistakably look and act the part," it instructs, and few dogs do it better than this breed!

The skull is approximately as wide as the length of the muzzle, resulting in an impression of length rather than width. Slight furrow between the eyes, cheeks cleanly chiseled. There should be a pronounced stop. The nose is slightly higher at the tip (than the muzzle) at the stop. Parallel planes of the skull and muzzle are equally acceptable. The muzzle should be deep without pendulous flews. Jaws ending square and level, should bite evenly or as scissors. Nostrils should be well developed and wide open - again, this is a dog bred for the sports field and scent is a vital component to that performance. Ears are set at eye level, and should reach just below the lower jaw when hanging naturally, with little or no folding. Tips are pointed (not rounded) and they are soft leather. Round eyes are dark (in contrast with the animal's markings) wit an expression of intense and intrepid willingness.

The neck of the Pointer is slightly arched, springing cleanly from the shoulders, which are long and thin. The shoulder blades are close together at the Elbows are well let down, directly under the withers and truly parallel so as to work just clear of the body. Forelegs are straight and with oval bone. Knee joint never to knuckle over. Pasterns of moderate length and slightly slanting. The deep chest must not hinder the dog's free action of forelegs. The breastbone is bold, without being unduly prominent. The ribs well sprung, descending as low as the elbow-point. The tail is long (but not beyond the hock), heavier at the root and tapers to a fine point.

Back legs are muscular and powerful with great propelling leverage. Thighs are long and well developed. Stifles well bent. The hocks clean: the legs straight as viewed from behind. Decided angulation is the mark of power and endurance. The Pointer's feet are oval shaped, with long, closely-set, arched toes, well-padded, and deep.

Colors

Liver, lemon, black, orange: either in combination with white or solid-colored. "A good Pointer cannot be a bad color," says the Standard. In the darker colors, the nose should be black or brown: in the lighter shades it may be lighter or flesh-colored.

Temperament

"Game On!" is probably the best description of these dogs. They are good natured and even the AKC Standard describes their congeniality. Most owners will tell you they make terrific couch potatoes, but that's just in the house. Like a professional athlete, the Pointer will rest in comfort when it can, storing up energy and strength for the hunt (or dog park run) later in the day. Smart and fun, they are devoted to their people.

Health and Care

Average shedders, Pointers require little more than regular petting, nail trimming and toothbrushing to be at their best. The most important aspect of their care is to provide regular exercise. They need to run daily to be happy and well-adjusted. If you are not a runner yourself, find a dog park or other gated facility where your Pointer can run unobstructed. Other owners ride their bicycles with their Pointer running alongside. And hour or two of running each day is vital.

Sources

The American Pointer Club, The American Kennel Club, Wikipedia

Colors

The Pointer is typically a solid shade of yellow (known as lemon), red, black, or orange. The coat may have white markings.

Living Area

Any will do as long as the dog has plenty of daily exercise. If alone during the day, be sure there is another dog for company!

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of American Pointer breeders with puppies for sale.