The German Shorthaired Pointer is a human family oriented and hunting dog. They need plenty of exercise and are just as willing to hunt as they are to play in the garden. They can tend to wander and are known as escape artists, so a well-fenced yard for exercise is ideal. Some say a fence of six feet or more is necessary. They can tend to be noisy dogs. They may chase cats and other pets, so early socialization is key. They like older children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate adult size

The approximate adult size (two years or older) of the male German Shorthaired Pointer is 23 to 25 inches at the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 55 to 70 pounds. The female stands 21 to 23 inches at the withers and 45 to 60 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed, and the German Shorthaired Pointer is no exception. Be on the lookout for canine hip dysplasia (genetic-based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritic pain and lameness), epilepsy (common in dogs), and entropion (inherited disorder in which the eyelid, usually the lower, it rolls inward and irritates the cornea and can cause visual problems (surgery can correct this condition but may disqualify the dog from shows). This list of diseases is only an informative guide. Other diseases can also be significant threats, contact your vet for a full list.

You should visit the vet several times during the first year for vaccinations, boosters, and checkups. Then, as an adult, he should visit the vet annually for vaccinations and checkups. As he gets older, starting at age six, he should visit the vet twice a year for checkups and vaccinations. Remember; Avoid giving your dog sweets.

Cleanliness

The German Shorthaired Pointer has a hard, short, thick coat. She must be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and will help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Their teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and a toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes plaque and tartar buildup that can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, bad breath, and other serious illnesses.

Toenails may need to be checked for growth and trimmed regularly. The toenails on the back grow more slowly than the toenails on the front. In general, a guillotine-style trimmer is best for this task, and competent instructions for accomplishing this can be found online.

Their ears should be checked once a week and kept clean. If you have it professionally fixed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection are part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get into the dogs ears, and do not attempt to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have discharge, a foul odor, or appears to be in distress and you suspect an infection or tumor, see your vet.

Life expectancy

The German Shorthaired Pointer can live for 14 to 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care, and excellent living conditions.

History

The German Shorthaired Pointer comes from Germany, where they were bred as hunting dogs. They may be a cross between a Bloodhound, Old Spanish Pointer, Hounds of St. Hubert, and German Pointer. They arrived in the United States in 1925. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1930.

some records

• German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America, Inc.
• UKC United Kennel Club
• NKC National Kennel Club
• CKC Continental Kennel Club
• APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
• AKC American Kennel Club
• FCI International Cynological Federation
• NZKC Kennel Club of New Zealand
• KCGB Kennel Club of Great Britain
• ANKC Australian National Kennel Club
• ACR American Canine Registry

litter size

7 to 8 German Shorthaired Pointer puppies

Category

Sport Group, Hunting Dog

Terms to describe

Agile, powerful, stamina, intelligent, friendly, willing to please, sensitive.

SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

• Very fast learner.
• Good watchdog.
• Good swimmers, webbed feet.
• Even personality.
• Very smart.
• They are very healthy
• They generally like children.

SPECIAL BAD POINTS

• They need obedience training.
• Medium watchdog ability.
• It can be a one person dog.
• It can be loud.
• They can roam.

Other names known for

Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund

Each dog is an individual, so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is only a good faith guide.