English Pointer

Group Classification: Gun Dog, AKC Sporting
Country of Origin: England
Date of Origin: 1650's
Weight M: 44-66 pounds
Height M: 22-24 inches
Weight F: 42-44 pounds
Height F: 21-24 inches
Life Expectancy 13-14 years

History

The Pointer is believed to have been bred 2000 years ago by cross breeding the Foxhound, the Italian Pointer, the Greyhound, the Bulldog, the Bloodhound, the Setter and the Newfoundland. The present-day Pointer has been in existence for approximately 80 years. The dog was named a pointer since it was a good hunting dog with a tail that points the hunter in the direction of where the game is hiding. The first confirmed mention of the English Pointer in England dates back to the year 1650, after the English Pointer was used to locate hare for hunting by the Greyhound. The pointer became popular in the early 1700's.

General Description

The English Pointer is potent, elegant and aristocratic. This dog breed has a watchful expression as well as an athletic and well built body. The nasal cavity is set high in comparison to the entire muzzle. The dog’s upper lip is full and not slack. The color of the dog’s eyes range from chestnut to hazel depending on the coat’s color. This breed has average sized pendant ears that are gently pointed. They also have a long neck with a straight tail that is tapered, but never docked. This breed has oval feet and removal of dewclaw on the façade legs is done, though it is optional. It also has a short, shiny, sleek coat that ranges in color from white to liver to lemon, black, or orange. The coat can be patched, solid, speckled and to some extent tri-colored. The nose should be similar in color to the patches on the coats.

Temperament

English Pointers are energetic dogs full of go-power. They are also devoted, loyal, patient and kind to children and their owners. It is also an intelligent, affectionate, clean breed of dog that can adapt to any environment in the home. This breed of dog is very sociable at a tender age, but is reserved when it meets strangers. The English Pointer requires a mentally strong owner as this feeds the dog with energy to steer clear of timidity. A nervous owner makes the dog nervous since the dog can sense the owner’s emotions. The dog also needs physical and mental exercise or else they tend to be easily upset and distractible. Without the presence of a strong willed owner, the dog tends to become stubborn and assume the role of the leader. This breed does not make a good watch dog, but they can alert the owner through barking when they hear any suspicious sound. Despite this, they make good hunting dogs as their hunting instincts develop when the dogs are young. This breed also enjoys a good rapport with other pets since they are not normally aggressive in nature.

Health and Care

This breed of dog, like many others, suffers from hip and elbow dysplasia. The English Pointers coat is smooth making it easy to groom with the minimum of care. It just needs regular brushing using a stiff bristle brush. Bathe only when it is necessary. Rubbing the coat using a chamois or a towel leaves it gleaming. Pay attention to the feet particularly after the dog exercises or works. Remember to thoroughly dry the dog to prevent it from getting cold. Check the ears of the dogs from time to time. This breed of dog sheds its coat moderately.

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