Breed Spot Light – The German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers were developed in the 19^th century.  Later bred with the English Pointer, they became the sleek breed they are today.  These German hunters were an all-purpose utility dog that had good nose sense in addition to being a good tracker and retriever.  These dogs are great companions, watchdogs and weekend hunters.  This bred was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

Breed Description

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile all-around gun dog.  The muzzle should be equal in length to the skull.  The large nose is brown and the almond-shaped eyes are dark brown.  Ears are high-set and are broad and close to the head.  The compact feet are webbed.  Their skin is tight and the coat is short, thick and rough to the touch. Coat colors include solid liver, liver and white, liver ticked or patches, white ticked or liver roan.  They weight between 45 and 70 pounds.  GSP height is usually between 21 inches tall to 25 inches tall.  The lifespan of the GSP is typically 12 to 15 years.

Breed Personality

This breed is one of the most energetic breeds around.  The GSP is a hunter by nature.  They are protective, clever, eager and willing to please. They are very fond of their human family.  The German short-haired pointer loves nothing more that engaging in some sort of constructive activity such as a long walk, hike or game of catch.  They are not suited for a sedentary life and they crave human contact.  They are well suited to families with children, although they may become boisterous, especially with small children.  Because the GSP is a hunting breed, other pets may be mistaken for game.  Care should be taken to introduce other pets at an early age.   Companions for this breed include active singles, families, suburbanites, and outdoorsy types. This breed is not recommended for apartment life and does best with a large yard and active, energetic family.  A GSP may be able to jump a fence that is lower than six feet.  A bored GSP becomes an active escape artist!

Grooming Requirements

Grooming of the German short-haired pointer is easy.  Brush regularly with a firm brush and bathe only when necessary.  Drying a GPS with a chamois will leave the coat gleaming.  Checking of the feet is recommended, especially when the dog has been exercising or working.  A GSP sheds an average amount.

German Shorthaired Pointers want to please their human counterparts and are easily trained as long as the training is consistent.

Photo:  Courtesy of Kjunstorm via Flickr (CC by 2.0)