The German Shorthaired Pointer is a very iconic breed of bird dog that originated from the rustic German countryside. Famous for its hunting abilities, this canine has won the hearts of both hunters and enthusiasts alike. Read on to learn more about this charming breed!
1. This Dog Breed Hails from Germany
The German Shorthaired Pointer, as its namesake states, originates from Germany where it is also known as the Deutsch Kurzhaar. This German breed was developed by hunters in the 1800s who needed a versatile hunting dog that was skilled at navigating the dense forests widespread throughout Germany. They also needed a strong-willed dog to pursue various game animals, whether it be pheasants, deer, or even wolves and wild boars.
There are a few theories about the origins of the German Shorthaired Pointer. It is most agreed upon though that this canine was developed by crossbreeding a few breeds, such as the now-extinct Old Spanish Pointer and a few other similar hunting dogs. At first, the early crossbreds were too slow and not agile enough for hunting; because of this, the English Pointer was then bred with the breed to improve its agility skills, along with improving its overall physical appearance.
The German Shorthaired Pointer was officially recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1930. It was later accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1954.
2. These Dogs Were Selectively Bred for “Pointing”
Pointing is a behavior that is displayed in certain hunting breeds, obviously called “pointers.” This instinctual behavior happens when a pointing dog catches the scent and/or sight of prey. Pointers will stop, lift one of their front paws, and then aim toward a certain direction, “pointing” to the prey’s location. The original pointing trait is believed to have originated from a few pointing breeds, probably the Old Spanish Pointer (which is a now extinct breed).
Pointers are one of the three main categories of gun dogs, the others being the retrievers and the flushing dogs. The German Shorthaired Pointer, as you will learn in the next section, has traits of all three types and is therefore not considered purely a pointing breed. This dog can be used to mainly point and retrieve, but some individuals may also be used to flush prey.
3. These Dogs Are Great Hunting Companions
As mentioned earlier, the German Shorthaired Pointer could be considered a hunting dog that is the jack of all trades. While this breed is considered a pointer, this canine can also serve as a retriever. While this gun dog was bred for waterfowl hunting, it can also be used to pursue other game, such as pheasants, rabbits, and deer. If started early, German Shorthaired Pointers are known to make great hunting companions thanks to their easy trainability and prey drive. This breed is known to work through dense cover, cold temperatures, and wet environments with little to no hesitation.
The German Shorthaired Pointer can sniff out the game efficiently and will point in the direction of the prey itself. If a hunter shoots their target, whether it be a rabbit or a turkey, this breed can retrieve them all. German Shorthaired Pointers are strong enough to even bring over heavier game. This breed has also been utilized in falconry, assisting in both tracking and providing backup in case the bird of prey misses the target.
While highly regarded as a multi-purpose hunting dog, it is important to note that just like people, each dog is different and may have their own sets of quirks and abilities. Still, in general, German Shorthaired Pointers are known for being intelligent dogs with high biddability.
4. Pointers Love Swimming
As the German Shorthaired Pointer needs to be able to retrieve bagged quarry, it must be able to trek through a variety of terrain. With waterfowl, this breed needs to be able to swim, and the German Shorthaired Pointer possesses these traits for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. There’s no bones about it; these dogs are amazing swimmers.
However, while most love to go for a nice swim, some individuals may be a bit reluctant to enter the water. Introducing a hydro-phobic dog may take a bit of patience, which is why it is crucial to introduce them as early as puppyhood (a few months old is recommended). Slow exposure, treats, and praise can all boost your dog’s confidence when entering the water, whether it be a pool or a pond. Start in shallow water, and move toward deeper depths whenever you notice your dog being comfortable. Never rush this process, and don’t underestimate the power of positive reinforcement.
German Shorthaired Pointers may enjoy a nice dip in the water, but it is important to note that due to their short fur, this breed can get cold very easily, especially with puppies. Practice common sense and be mindful of the weather; for instance, it is unwise to allow your canine to swim in cold winter.
5. Pointers Are Very Athletic
As a result of its active nature as a hunting dog, the athletic German Shorthaired Pointer is one sporty canine. Full of energy, this dog needs a minimum of around two hours of exercise every day, and that isn’t something to skip through. A bored dog is a destructive dog, and the German Shorthaired Pointer is no exception.
While this dog may relish walks, the German Shorthaired Pointer needs to be able to stretch its legs and run around. A large, secure yard is essential for this breed. The German Shorthaired Pointer’s athleticism makes them a great choice for many different types of breed-specific sports. These can range from playing fetch and swimming to agility and field trials, which are fantastic for a hunting breed like the German Shorthaired Pointer.
This spunky canine is great for owners who live very active lifestyles themselves. If you’re a jogger, runner, or even a biker, the German Shorthaired Pointer would probably make a great exercise companion to accompany you on your routines. If you’re taking your dog on a trail run, it is always important to keep your canine on a leash. German Shorthaired Pointers may roam and wander off, and this dog may also follow any peculiar scents it may catch in its nose.
While these dogs love exercise, be sure to give them breaks when needed. And remember: intensive physical training isn’t recommended for puppies as their bones and joints are still developing!
6. These Dogs Have Low Grooming Needs
When it comes to grooming, the German Shorthaired Pointer is not a high-maintenance breed. A simple brushing session every few days with a grooming glove or a soft bristle brush should suffice in maintaining its coat. It is important to know that while German Shorthaired Pointers have short coats, they do shed. Regular brushing sessions will keep the hair under control. Unless your dog gets filthy, this breed only needs an infrequent bath every two to three months.
As with all other breeds, brushing their teeth, trimming their nails, and ensuring their ears are clean are all important for your dog. While highly recommended to brush your dog’s teeth every day, two to three times a week can suffice. While dogs love dental chews that can remove plaque, they shouldn’t be used as a substitute for toothbrushing! Trimming your dog’s nails about every month is important to prevent discomfort, and keeping their ears can prevent ear infections.
7. These Dogs Are Pretty Healthy
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a generally healthy breed, but like others, this canine can develop some common health issues. One common issue is hip dysplasia, which occurs when a dog’s hip joints don’t properly align, causing issues that will progressively worsen over time if not treated.
Another issue that the German Shorthaired Pointer may get is bloat, also called gastric dilation volvulus (GDV). Due to its deep chest and large size, this canine is prone to bloat. This life-threatening condition happens when the stomach fills with gas, then twists on itself, severing blood flow to vital organs.
Other issues that the German Shorthaired Pointer may be prone to are heart disease and eye problems, along with blood clotting problems and epilepsy. Taking your dog to a trusted veterinarian annually is crucial to ensure that issues are targeted early on (before they worsen), and always schedule an appointment if your dog is showing any concerning signs of illness.
8. This Breed Isn’t Recommended for Beginners
The German Shorthaired Pointer makes a wonderful companion and a family pet, provided they can satisfy its requirements of vigorous exercise. This dog is probably not suitable for first-time owners due to being highly energetic, which can be a handful for average people. As mentioned earlier, this dog thrives most in active households. While this canine can make a great family companion, its energy levels may be too much to handle for smaller children. Apartment life for the German Shorthaired Pointer is not recommended.
Early puppyhood training is a must for the German Shorthaired Pointer. This canine is highly intelligent and needs to be given a purpose; dogs not being given enough stimulation, either physical or mental, can become very destructive. As this dog is a hunting breed, this breed holds a strong prey drive; this is important if you have other pet animals in the household, such as cats. As mentioned earlier in the article, you cannot skip out on exercise for the German Shorthaired Pointer.
As with all breeds, research is a must. Obtaining your dog from a reputable source is also important: responsible breeders or rescue groups are both great options to obtain your puppy. If you can handle a high-energy breed like the German Shorthaired Pointer, this canine will make a great companion for years to come.
