German Shorthaired Pointer
Group 3: Gun dogs
Height:
Male: 62 – 66 cm
Female: 58 – 63 cm
Energy Level: Very high
Original Function: Hunting
Lifespan: 12 – 15 yrs
Recommended for: Active people & families.
About This Breed
The German Shorthaired Pointer origins lie in Germany, they were breed as an all purpose hunting dog, which could track, point and retrieve, which they managed to do all of these qualities very well. The most important distinctive feature of these dogs was their pointing performance. After the first double-barrelled gun was made in 1750, a pointing dog was required even more. In full sight of the dog, game birds in flight were shot. That was the beginning of the transition from a pointer to a versatile gundog.
Today the German Shorthaired Pointer still passes through the filter of elaborated breeding and trial regulations. The standard stipulates the constitution of the German Shorthaired Pointer, as a versatile hunting dog, which enables him to perform all requirements in connection with hunting activities, even when advanced in age.
They are a highly intelligent dog and respond to training very well. They can be wilful and exuberant, so firm, consistent, but not harsh training is required. They will fit into family life well and love plenty of affection and exercise.
General Characteristics
Appearance: A dog of noble and balanced appearance, the conformation of which ensures strength, endurance and speed. Proud attitude, smooth outlines, lean head, well carried tail, firm shiny coat and well reaching, harmonious strides emphasise its nobility.
Temperament: Intelligent, reliable, balanced, restrained temperament. Neither nervous, nor shy or aggressive.
Colour: Solid brown, without markings.
Brown with small white or flecked markings at chest and legs.
Dark brown roan, with brown head, brown patches or specks. The basic colour of such a dog is not brown mixed with white or white with brown, but the coat shows such an even intensive mixture of brown and white which results in that kind of inconspicuous exterior of the dog ever so valuable for the practical hunt. At the inner sides of the hindlegs as well as the tip of the tail the colour is often lighter.
Light brown roan with brown head, brown patches, specks or without patches. In this colouring the brown hairs are fewer, the white hairs are predominant.
White with brown head markings, brown patches or specks.
Black colour in the same nuances as the brown, respectively the brown roan colours.
Yellow tan markings are permissible.
Blaze, fleck and speckles flews are permissible.
Coat: Short and dense, rough and hard to the touch.
Grooming: Easy coat to care for, requiring a brush now and then and a bath when needed. Check ears regularly.
Exercise: these dogs need plenty of it and it is important to exercise their brain as well as their body.
Health: This breed is generally sound but some can suffer from hip dysplasia, eye problems and ear infections.