The German Shorthaired Pointer
Other Names: German Pointer (Shorthaired), Deutscher, Kurzhaariger Vortsehund, Kurzhaar
Height: 21 - 25 inches
Weight: 40 - 55 lbs.
Colors: Solid liver, liver and white spotted, liver and white spotted and ticked; liver and white ticked, the same variations with black instead of liver
Coat: Short and flat, coarse to touch
Temperament: German Shorthaired Pointers are active, responsive, gentle, affectionate, even-tempered
With Children: Yes, loves to play with children but may be too exuberant with younger ones.
With Pets: Yes, but may chase the cat.
Special Skills: Field sports dog and family pet.
Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Medium
Care and Exercise: Minimal grooming of the German Shorthaired Pointer should consist of brushing with a firm bristle brush and bathing only when necessary. Needs plenty of vigorous exercise.
Training: German Shorthaired Pointers love to learn and are very trainable. They should have some form of obedience training. Patient, firm leadership are essential.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Medium, Problem Solving - High
Activity: Very High
Living Environment: German Shorthaired Pointers are generally unsuited for city life as they are not the type of breed to curl up in front of the fireplace all day, they need activity that a hunter could provide. A house with a fenced yard is mandatory.
Health Issues: Health problems are rare but may include hip dysplasia, entropion and epilepsy.
Life Span: 14 - 16 Years
Litter Size: 8
Country of Origin: Germany
History: German Shorthaired Pointers were known as early as the 17th century where they were bred as a hunting dog. It is said that the German Pointer was produced by crossing the Spanish Pointer with the Bloodhound. In 1872 they were registered in the German Kennel Club. They didn't arrive in the United States until 1925 when Dr. Charles Thornton of Montana set up a kennel of the breed. In the United States and Great Britain they are more popular than their cousin the German Wirehaired Pointer.
First Registered by the AKC: 1930
AKC Group: Sporting Group
Class: Gundog
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 7), KC (GB), UKC
