German Shorthaired Pointer

Origin

The exact origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer is not clearly defined. It is probably a mix of various kinds of German dogs, exceptional retrievers and hunting dogs, on the ground as well as in the water for any kind of game. They have been hunters, family companions and watchdogs. The German Shorthaired Pointer was recognized by the AKC in 1930. The earliest form of this kind of dog dates from the seventeenth century. The German Shorthaired Pointer as we know him today was bred in the mid to late nineteenth century to be versatile hunting dogs.

Description

The coat of the German Shorthaired Pointer is short and flat with a thick undercoat, making him almost impervious and keeping him warm in cold weather. The color can be a dark brown, referring specifically to the English word “liver” (or incorrectly as “chocolate” or “chestnut”), black, or either brown and white or black and white. Males are between 23 and 25 inches (59-64 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh 55 to 70 pounds (25-32 kg). Females are 21-23 inches (53-58 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh 45 to 60 pounds (20-27 kg). Their life expectancy is about 12-15 years.

Temper

A remarkable example among the most vivid races, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a hunting dog by nature. Protective, intelligent, happy and excited, he will be ideal if you are unusually attached to him. Ecstatic, the German Shorthaired Pointer is just looking to participate in any kind of activity with his owners, for example, a long walk, run, climb, hunt, or a session of frisbee. This breed is not suited for living in an apartment. Undaunted, bright and willing, the German Shorthaired Pointer loves and connects easily with children. The level of dominance and vitality fluctuates slightly from puppy to puppy even within the same litter. He generally requires more action than the normal pointers. He is best suited for a dynamic family. When they need action, they can get to be nervous and confused. The German Shorthaired Pointer may not listen if he feels stronger than his owner, but he will react badly to too much power. The German Shorthaired Pointer needs someone who has natural leadership and is safe and steady on the principles to be followed. The German Shorthaired Pointer needs structure in his life. Otherwise, he may become anxious, nervous and destructive. With a balanced and stable mind, enough physical activity, he will coexist well with other dogs and cats. He likes to bark and can be shy around strangers. He is most at ease during hunting trips. The German Shorthaired Pointer can participate to virtually all types of hunting. He is a pointer and a retriever, on land or in water. He is a superb swimmer who copes well with difficult terrain. Most German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are amazing guards. He prefers not to be left alone and can otherwise develop anxiety. He is very easy to train.

Living conditions

This breed is not for an apartment life and live better with a large garden and a dynamic and athletic family. He has the ability to jump over a smaller fence up to 6 feet (1.8m) high. Without any activity, he will easily get bored and escape. He must be taken for walking or jogging near you or when you bike on a daily basis. Otherwise, this breed tends to become restless and destructive.

Care

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a clean race. Their short coat requires almost no maintenance. Just an occasional brushing. They continuously shed. They only need to be washed if needed (after hunting for example). As the German Shorthaired Pointer is quite large and dynamic, these dogs may require a respectable amount of food. Older or less active individuals can also become obese if they are fed more than enough.