The German Shorthaired Pointer is a human family oriented and hunter dog. They need quite a bit of exercise and are just as willing to hunt as they are to play games in the yard. They can tend to roam and they are known as escape artists so a properly fenced in yard for exercise is ideal. Some say that a six foot or higher fence is necessary. They can tend to be noisy dogs. They may chase cats and other pets so early socialization is key. They like older children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.



Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the German Shorthaired Pointer male is 23 to 25 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 55 to 70 pounds. The female ranges from 21 to 23 inches to the withers and 45 to 60 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the German Shorthaired Pointer is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy (common in dogs), and Entropion, (hereditary disorder where eyelid, usually lower one, rolls inward and irritates the cornea and can cause visual problems. Surgery can correct this condition but may disqualify the dog from shows). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The German Shorthaired Pointer has a tough, short and thick coat. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Life Span

The German Shorthaired Pointer can live between 14 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The German Shorthaired Pointer comes from Germany where they were bred as hunting dogs. They may be a cross between the Bloodhound, Old Spanish Pointer, Hounds of St. Hubert and the German Pointer. They came to the United States in 1925. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1930.