| Description: Bred as a hunting dog to point out and track game, German Shorthaired pointers are very trainable, intelligent and eager to learn, thus they’re pretty easy to train if one is consistent. This breed is loyal, very active – true to its upbringing -- and brave with a friendly, playful disposition. Males tend to be more outgoing and are more aggressive hunters than females. Females tend to be less dominant.
German Shorthaired Pointers needs lots of exercise especially outdoors in order to be calm indoors and not spoil their naturally good nature. Otherwise, these dogs can get a little stir crazy. Keep this in mind as these dogs mature, because in addition to their high energy level, they seem to always have to have something in their mouths. Keep plenty of toys and chewable things.
Other Names: German Pointer (Shorthaired), Deutscher, Kurzhaariger Vortsehund, Kurzhaar
Height: 21 - 25 inches
Weight: 40 - 55 lbs.
Colors: Solid liver, liver and white spotted, liver and white spotted and ticked; liver and white ticked, the same variations with black instead of liver
Coat: Short and flat, coarse to touch
Temperament: Active, responsive, gentle, affectionate, even-tempered
With Children: Yes, loves to play with children but may be too exuberant with younger ones.
With Pets: Yes, but may chase the cat.
Special Skills: Field sports dog and family pet.
Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Medium
Care and Exercise: Minimal grooming should consist of brushing with a firm bristle brush and bathing only when necessary. Needs plenty of vigorous exercise.
Training: Loves to learn and is very trainable. He should have some form of obedience training. Patient, firm leadership are essential.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Medium, Problem Solving - High
Activity: Very High
Living Environment: Generally unsuited for city life he is not the type of breed to curl up in front of the fireplace all day, he needs activity that a hunter could provide. A house with a fenced yard is mandatory.
Health Issues: Health problems are rare but may include hip dysplasia, entropion and epilepsy.
Life Span: 14 - 16 Years
Litter Size: 8
Country of Origin: Germany
History: He was known as early as the 17th century where he was bred as a hunting dog. It is said that the German Pointer was produced by crossing the Spanish Pointer with the Bloodhound. In 1872 he was registered in the German Kennel Club. He didn't arrive in the United States until 1925 when Dr. Charles Thornton of Montana set up a kennel of the breed. In the United States and Great Britain he is more popular than his cousin the German Wirehaired Pointer.
First Registered by the AKC: 1930
AKC Group: Sporting Group
Class: Gundog |
