Quick Facts:

Group Classification: Gun Dogs, AKC Sporting

Country of origin: Germany

Date of origin: 1800s

Weight (M): 29.5- 32 Kg (65-70 pounds) Height (M): 58.5 – 63.5 cm (23- 25 inches)

Weight (F): 20.5-27 Kg (45-60 pounds) Height (F): 53-58.5 cm (21-23 inches)

Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years

History

This breed originated in Germany as a cross breed of several other pointer breed dogs. German hunters during the 19th century required a dog that had a good nose and that had exceptionally good hunting skills. They needed a dog capable of retrieving feather and fur from both land and water. Breeds that were incorporated in coming up with this German Shorthaired Pointer were the Foxhound, Hounds of St. Hubert, the English and Old Spanish Pointer. The result was a breed that was a very good hunter, energetic and a fast runner.

General Description

The German Shorthaired Pointer has a tough structured body mainly attributed to their hunting history. The breed is well-balanced, lean, clear-cut and has an elongated chiseled head. It has a long muzzle that ought to be of similar length as that of its skull. Its eyes are almond shaped while the nose is brown; the same color as their eyes. The German Shorthaired Pointer eyes have an expression of good humor and intelligence. They have broad ears that are highly set and are closer to the head. They have strong teeth that forms a scissors bite. The dog’s coat are short, sleek, dense and has colors of white and liver, solid liver, white, patched, roan or ticked. Most of the breeds are in colors of white and liver. The dog’s skin is normally tight. Its tail is usually 60 per cent docked; this makes the dog sit on its tail. The breed’s feet are webbed and their claws ought to be removed.

Temperament

The German Shorthaired Pointer is smart, very energetic, loyal and willing to please its masters all the time. Its friendliness and cheerful nature attracts it to children. The dog gets along with all the members of the family and at times can be very protective of them. They are sociable and prefer to be around people rather than being withdrawn and alone; though they can be quite reserved towards strangers. The German Shorthaired Pointer will be comfortable with the family if it is regularly exercised. On the other hand, this breed can become nervous and destructive if left on its own without being properly exercised or trained. The dog requires the owner to be calm, confident and firm. These dogs have high energy and will require proper exercise to enable them remain active. The German Shorthaired Pointer is comfortable around other pets provided they have been raised together from puppyhood.

Health and Care

Although the German Shorthaired Pointer is a healthy dog breed, they can be susceptible to lymphedema, hermaphrodism and epilepsy, cataracts, thyroid problems, entropion and elbow dysplasia. The dog is not comfortable to live in apartments but will perform well in homes with large yards. The smooth coat of the dog makes grooming easy. All that is needed is regular brushing using a soft bristle brush. The dog should be washed only if it is necessary. Take special attention to its ears, and feet especially after a long exercise. The breed sheds averagely.

Exercise

Exercise is very essential for these energetic animals. The dogs can overpower even active families and thus they should be guaranteed regular exercise to make them more manageable and easy to handle. They should be taken through simple exercise such as walking, jogging and running.

Pets4You offers listings of German Shorthaired Pointer breeders with puppies for sale.