German Short- Haired Pointing Dog
Summary
The German Shorthaired Pointer is one of the most popular hunting dogs in the world, bred in Germany in the 19th century to be the "perfect hunting dog" — capable of pointing, flushing, retrieving on land and water, and tracking trails. Its development involved crosses between the old Spanish Pointer, German scent hounds, English Pointers, and other hunting dogs. It is currently one of the most versatile and intelligent breeds in the group, being equally appreciated as an active family dog.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium to large
- Height (male)
- 62–66 cm
- Height (female)
- 58–63 cm
- Weight (male)
- 25–32 kg
- Weight (female)
- 20–27 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 10–12 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, hard, and rough to the touch; provides good protection
- Common Colors
- Solid liver, liver with white ticked or roan, black with white ticked or roan
Temperament & Personality
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an active, loyal, intelligent, and action-oriented dog, frequently described as "noble" and "aristocratic." It is very devoted to the family and excellent with children when well socialized. Having been bred to work in close collaboration with the hunter, it tends to be very owner-oriented. Its high energy and intelligence require daily physical and mental stimulation; without it, it can become destructive.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Very high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 90–120 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 0 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV — less frequent than in larger breeds)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Subaortic stenosis (heart condition)
- Von Willebrand disease
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- OFA orthopedic evaluation
- Ophthalmologic evaluation
- Von Willebrand test
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
