German Short Haired Pointer
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Appearance
| German Short Haired Pointer Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | |
| Origin | Germany |
| Size | Medium-large |
| Height (at withers) | 21-25in (53-63.5cm) |
| Weight | 45-70lbs (20-32kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | Liver, white |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
| Energy Level | High |
| Litter size | 7-8 |
| Shedding | Medium |
| Grooming | Medium |
| Barking Tendency | Medium |
| Exercise requirements | High |
| Ease of training | High |
| Suitability for kids | Medium |
| Animal compatability | Medium |
| Aggression levels | Low |
| Distress if left | Medium |
The German Short Haired Pointer is slightly smaller than the standard pointer and has a sturdy and athletic build. The feet are webbed and the tail is normally docked so that the dog can sit on it. The finely moulded head has an elongated muzzle, a large brown nose, perky ears and almond-shaped eyes. The coat is short and sleek and harsh in texture, and the colouring is normally liver, or liver and white combinations.
Temperament
German Short Haired Pointers are sociable and cheerful dogs with good-natured temperaments. Affectionate and loving towards their owners and familes, although versatile they do not like being left for long periods of time. They also need plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation, otherwise boredom can set in and this oftens leads to destructive behavior. Intelligent, tolerant and obedient, these dogs are quick to learn and this can make training very easy, although some can have stubborn or dominant streaks that make them more suited to confident and assertive owners with some experience of dog ownership. German Short Haired Pointers get along well with older children, as they are a little large for smaller kids, and will also be good with pets they have been well socialised with, although some may chase cats and be aggressive with strange dogs. Around strangers their reactions can vary from friendly to reserved and aggressive. These dedicated dogs are protective by nature, which makes them good watchdogs.
History & Skills
German Short Haired Pointers originate from Germany, as suggested in their name, and were developed in the 1800s from a mix of Old Spanish Pointers, Foxhounds, Hounds of St. Hubert and English Pointers. They were used for tracking and were able to point towards possible targets over considerable distances. These dogs proved to be good hunters and natural retrievers that required little training.
Breed Specific Ailments
German Short Haired Pointers live between 12-16 years are a relatively healthy breed, but some of the health probelms and disorders noted includes hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, gastric torsion, hermaphrodism, thyroid problems, cataracts, vWD, entropion lymphedema and pannus.
Grooming
German Short Haired Pointers are medium shedders that also shed more heavily on a seasonal basis, and so are not best suited to those that suffer from allergies. However, all that said, grooming is not demanding. The coat should be brushed once or twice a week, and rubbed down with a damp cloth occasionally. The feet and ears should be checked regulary if the dog is used for hunting.
Exercise & Environment
German Short Haired Pointers are not suitable for small homes, such as apartments, as they are very active dogs that require a fair amount of exercise. A daily walk is required, plus access to a secure yard or garden area. These dogs make ideal outdoor exercise partners for those with an athletic bent.