The German Short-haired Pointer is a breed of dog developed in the 1800s in Germany for hunting. It is a versatile hunter, an all-purpose gun dog capable of high performance in field and water.
History: Originally developed in Germany, where it is known as the “Kurzhaar”, the German Shorthaired Pointer has been used to hunt fur or feather on land or over water. Developed from a cross between the Spanish Pointer and the Bloodhound, the earlier Kurzhaars were heavier and less agile than the modern German Shorthaired Pointer breed. The German Short-haired Pointer was brought to North America in the 1920’s, and has since grown very popular as both an excellent sporting dog and cherished family pet.
Appearance: The German Shorthaired Pointer is a clean-cut, lean, well-balanced, hunting dog with an elegantly chiseled head. The muzzle is long, but never pointed. Set quite high, the broad ears lie flat against the head. Usually docked to 40% of its original length, the tail is set high, hanging down when the dog is at rest and held horizontally when active. The short, dense, sleek coat should be solid liver or liver & white, patched, ticked or roan. The only permitted colors are liver and white. The skin should be tight.
Size: Height: Dogs – 23-25 inches (59-64 cm); bitches 21-23 inches (53-58 cm)
Weight: Dogs – 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg); bitches 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg)
Temperament: The German Short-haired Pointer is an active breed that is responsive, affectionate, and gentle. They are friendly and willing to please. They do not have a flighty or nervous disposition, but may become easily distracted. This breed is normally reserved around strangers and tends to bark or whine quite a bit. The German shorthaired pointer is intelligent and therefore trainable, but the owner must make the dog understand who is in charge, as this breed has a mind of its own. It can be a welcome addition to the family, and is a good, multitalented hunting dog.
Health: Usually a healthy breed but some are prone to epilepsy, hermaphrodism and lymphedema. Some minor concerns are CHD, entropion, gastric torsion, VWD, pannus, OCD. Life expectancy is about 12-15 years.
Grooming: The German Short-haired Pointer is extremely easy to groom. They must be brushed regularly with a stiff bristle brush. It is important to check this breed’s feet after exercising and working. They must be dried thoroughly after strenuous activity to keep them from becoming chilled.
Puppy price: $ 400.00 - $ 800.00