Meet the German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer can do almost any job. They’ve detected bombs for The Air Force, assisted game hunters and fishermen, and dominated dog sporting events. Aside from their physical feats, they’re relatively low-maintenance and a pleasure to train.

This breed is both a capable hunter and compassionate companion, intelligent enough to trail deer and retrieve from water, but affectionate enough to be the family pet.

Overview of the German Shorthaired Pointer

A male German Shorthaired Pointer stands between 23 and 25 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs between 55 and 70 pounds. Females are smaller, standing from 21 to 23 inches at the shoulder and weighing 45 to 60 pounds. Their average lifespan is between 12 and 14 years, so adopting a German Shorthair is a long-term commitment.

German Shorthaired Pointers demand high-energy and loads of attention and require at least an hour of exercise or walking each day, which makes them an ideal pet for families with big backyards and suitable outdoor space. They’re also the perfect companion for a long hike or bicycle ride.

Despite their versatility as both work and play dogs, the Pointer does not adjust well to solitary time, and many become rather destructive following long periods without exercise or accompaniment. Negative behaviors that can be expected from the breed including digging up the yard, climbing fences to escape, barking, and chasing small animals and pets.\

Personality of the German Shorthaired Pointer

Though they’re known for their energetic demeanor, the German Shorthaired Pointer is more than capable of adjusting to quiet time with the family, and is well-known for their decorum around younger family members and children. This emotional intelligence allows them to adapt to training at an early age.

They’re also very protective of their family, and will bark to warn you of strangers on your property, in addition to warding off strange cats, birds, and other small animals. This brave attitude, when paired with their muscularity and enthusiasm, makes them a great candidate for early training, since they’ll need to adjust to the limited physical strengths of children and other household pets.

What Families Love About the German Shorthaired Pointer

This is a loyal dog that loves being part of the family. Owners love the diversity of the German Shorthaired Pointer, since they’re as content with quality time on the couch as they are on a swim or light jog.

Their short, smooth coat is also remarkably easy to groom, only requiring occasional brushing and limited maintenance.

To learn more about the pointer breeds, go to All About the Different Types of Pointer Breeds.