German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed Information - All About Dogs

German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointer

Description

The German Shorthaired Pointer (also called the Deutsch Kurzhaar) is a hunting dog, able to work in any terrain. He is well balanced, has a gracefully-shaped head and a slender physique. This breed was developed in the 19th century, by German hunters who needed a dog that is able to hunt even heavy game. The German Shorthaired Pointer was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

Height: 21-25 inches  Weight: 45-70 pounds  Lifespan: 10-12 years

Characteristics

The German Shorthaired Pointer is an active breed, responsive, affectionate and tender. German Shorthaired Pointers are friendly and always ready to earn a reward from their master. Their attention can be distracted quite easily, which is considered an incorrect trait.

Character

Highly energetic and smart, the German Shorthaired Pointer has a cheerful and friendly character. This dog gets along well with children, and he is in good relations with other dogs and cats, provided that he is familiar with them. Dogs of this breed are very loud barkers. German Shorthaired Pointers are loyal, always ready to protect their family and territory. These dogs get truly attached to their owner and cannot tolerate being alone and neglected.

Coat / Care

The German Shorthaired Pointer’s coat is rather coarse in its structure. It is short, dense and very smooth, protecting the dog’s body of adverse water. The color of the coat is solid liver or a combination of liver and white. It can be ticked, patched or roan. The German Shorthaired Pointer’s coat is easy to groom; it is enough to clean it regularly with a stiff brush. It is very important to regularly check on the dog’s paws, especially after hunting. Hence, make sure to gently dry them in order to avoid hypothermia. Shedding is of medium intensity.

Health Problems

The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Ear Infections, Hip Dysplasia and Skin Cancer. The German Shorthaired Pointer has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.

Weight / Height

The male German Shorthaired Pointer dog breed’s height is around 23 – 25 inches and weighs around 55 and 70 pounds. Female GSP dogs can reach a size from 21 – 23 inches and weighs between 45 and 60 pounds.

Training

The German Shorthaired Pointer is capable of learning very quickly, but he can be quite stubborn. Therefore, this dog needs a patient and tenacious training coach. Dogs of this breed are characterized with great agility, they are obedient and excel at tracking and hunting disciplines. The Shorthaired Pointer has a very strong prey drive. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out early socialization and obedience training.

Activity

This breed is full of life, and it hardly gets tired. That is why it needs intense exercise in order to stay healthy. Otherwise, the German Shorthaired Pointer can become nervous and even aggressive. This dog is suited for people who are leading an active lifestyle. Shorthaired Pointers require plenty of space, where they could run freely and explore.

Photo credit: Harold Meerveld/Flickr

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