• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Portuguese Pointer Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Portuguese Pointer so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Gun Dog
Popularity Rank374
Reviews1
User Ratings
Compare the Portuguese Pointer With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Portuguese Pointer dog profile picture
OriginPortugal flagPortugal
Other Names
What other names does the Portuguese Pointer have?
Portuguese Pointing DogPerdigueiro Portugues
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Portuguese Pointer Size and Weight

Size
Is a Portuguese Pointer small, medium or large dog?

How big do Portuguese Pointer get?

What is the average size of a Portuguese Pointer?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Portuguese Pointer weigh? How much should a Portuguese Pointer weight? What is the normal weight of a Portuguese Pointer? How much does a full-grown Portuguese Pointer weight?
Male: 44–60 pounds (20–27 kg), Female: 35–49 pounds (16–22 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Portuguese Pointer?
Male: 44–60 pounds (20–27 kg), Female: 35–49 pounds (16–22 kg)
Height
How tall is the Portuguese Pointer? Portuguese Pointer height:
Male: 20–24 inches (51–61 cm), Female: 19–22 inches (48–56 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Portuguese Pointer?
Male: 20–24 inches (51–61 cm), Female: 19–22 inches (48–56 cm)

Portuguese Pointer Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Portuguese Pointer puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Portuguese Pointer in the United States? How much money is a Portuguese Pointer?

Where to buy a Portuguese Pointer with a good pedigree?

$800-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Portuguese Pointer, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Portuguese Pointer for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Portuguese Pointer gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Portuguese Pointer? How many Portuguese Pointer are there in the world?
Average: The Portuguese Pointer is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Portuguese Pointer Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Portuguese Pointer? Is the Portuguese Pointer breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Portuguese Pointer ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Portuguese Pointer dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Portuguese Pointer?
Portuguese Pointer dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Portuguese Pointer good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Portuguese Pointer dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Portuguese Pointer dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Portuguese Pointer dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Portuguese Pointer dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Portuguese Pointer Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Portuguese Pointer have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
AffectionateLivelyCalmSubmissive
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Portuguese Pointer sensitivity:
Portuguese Pointer dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Portuguese Pointer a good family dog?
High: Portuguese Pointer dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Portuguese Pointing Dog need? Portuguese Pointer social needs:
Portuguese Pointer dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Portuguese Pointer to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Portuguese Pointer roam?
Portuguese Pointer dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Portuguese Pointer have high prey drive?
Portuguese Pointer dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Portuguese Pointer dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Portuguese Pointer Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Portuguese Pointers are not the most playful dog breed. Sometimes they do like playing, but that's not their favorite activity.
Barking
Do Portuguese Pointer dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Portuguese Pointing Dog bark?
Low to Average: The Portuguese Pointer rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Portuguese Pointer good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Portuguese Pointer in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Portuguese Pointer breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Portuguese Pointer indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Portuguese Pointer Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Portuguese Pointer dogs don't adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't like moving from one place to another.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Portuguese Pointer be left alone? How long can you leave a Portuguese Pointer alone?
Portuguese Pointer dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Portuguese Pointer Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Portuguese Pointer has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Portuguese Pointer? How much bite force does a Portuguese Pointer have? How strong is a Portuguese Pointer bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Portuguese Pointer bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Portuguese Pointer measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Portuguese Pointer is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Portuguese Pointer bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Portuguese Pointer bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Portuguese Pointer puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Portuguese Pointer, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Portuguese Pointer bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Portuguese Pointer can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Portuguese Pointer bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Portuguese Pointing Dog? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Portuguese Pointer? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Portuguese Pointer has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Portuguese Pointer do?
Portuguese Pointer dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Portuguese Pointer dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.

Portuguese Pointer Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Portuguese Pointer dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Portuguese Pointers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Portuguese Pointer breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Portuguese Pointer see the vet?
Frequent
The Portuguese Pointer should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Portuguese Pointer dogs live? How old can a Portuguese Pointer be? What is the age limit of the Portuguese Pointer? How many years can the oldest Portuguese Pointer live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Portuguese Pointer?

How long is the lifespan of a Portuguese Pointer?

12-14 years
The average lifespan of Portuguese Pointer: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.

Portuguese Pointer Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Portuguese Pointer have? What is the activity level of the Portuguese Pointer?
Portuguese Pointer dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Portuguese Pointer need? How much exercise do Portuguese Pointer dogs require per day?

Do Portuguese Pointer dogs need a lot of exercises?

Portuguese Pointer dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Portuguese Pointer breed need?
Portuguese Pointer dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Portuguese Pointer Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Portuguese Pointer need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Portuguese Pointer breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Portuguese Pointer? How much food should I feed my Portuguese Pointer?
2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Portuguese Pointer risk for obesity:
Average: The Portuguese Pointer has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Portuguese Pointer weight regularly.

Portuguese Pointer Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Portuguese Pointer have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Rough
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Portuguese Pointer coats?
White BrownYellowLight
Grooming
How to groom the Portuguese Pointer and how often? How often should I take my Portuguese Pointer to the groomer?
Easy to groom: The Portuguese Pointer doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Portuguese Pointer is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Portuguese Pointer dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Portuguese Pointing Dog? Do Portuguese Pointer dogs shed a lot?
Portuguese Pointer dogs are low shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Portuguese Pointer need a bath? How often should you give a Portuguese Pointer a bath? Can I bathe my Portuguese Pointer every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Portuguese Pointer breed hypoallergenic?
No
Portuguese Pointer dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Portuguese Pointer has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Portuguese Pointer drool?
The Portuguese Pointer is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Portuguese Pointer Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Portuguese Pointer dogs get along with other pets? Are Portuguese Pointer dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Portuguese Pointer dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Portuguese Pointer temperament with other people:
Portuguese Pointer dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Portuguese Pointer dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Portuguese Pointer temperament with children:
Portuguese Pointer dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Portuguese Pointer dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Portuguese Pointer breed live with a cat?
Portuguese Pointer dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Portuguese Pointer good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Portuguese Pointer dogs get along with other dogs?
Portuguese Pointer dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Portuguese Pointer breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Portuguese Pointer breed suitable for first-time owners?
No
Portuguese Pointer dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.
Office Friendly
Are Portuguese Pointer dogs good office canines? Do Portuguese Pointer dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Portuguese Pointer is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Portuguese Pointer dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Portuguese Pointing Dog temperament with senior people? Are Portuguese Pointer dogs good for elderly owners?
Portuguese Pointers are commonly okay with elderly people.

Portuguese Pointer As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Portuguese Pointer be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Portuguese Pointer is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Portuguese Pointer be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Portuguese Pointer be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Portuguese Pointer is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Portuguese Pointer be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Portuguese Pointer is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Portuguese Pointer be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Portuguese Pointer is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Portuguese Pointer be a boat dog?

Not really

Portuguese Pointer breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Portuguese Pointer be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Portuguese Pointer is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Portuguese Pointer dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Portuguese Pointer Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Portuguese Pointer pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Portuguese Pointer breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Portuguese Pointer: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Portuguese Pointer have in a litter? How many puppies can the Portuguese Pointer breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Portuguese Pointer have? How many puppies can a Portuguese Pointer give birth to?
5-8 puppies

Portuguese Pointer Recognition

AKC Group
Is Portuguese Pointer recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Portuguese Pointer recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Pointing Dogs group, in the Continental Pointing Dogs section.

Portuguese Pointer Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Portuguese Pointer doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Shedding Level: Portuguese Pointer dogs are low shedders.
  • Watchdog Ability: Portuguese Pointer dogs are good watchdogs.
Cons
  • Health Issues: Portuguese Pointers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Portuguese Pointer dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Portuguese Pointer breed.
  • Mouthiness: Portuguese Pointer dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Portuguese Pointer dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Adaptability: Portuguese Pointer dogs don't adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Portuguese Pointer dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Cat Friendly: Portuguese Pointer dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Portuguese Pointer is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Portuguese Pointer dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.

Portuguese Pointer History

The Portuguese Pointer, in its original name, the ‘Perdigueiro Português’, was developed from the Iberian peninsula’s hunting dogs with its presence in Portugal which can be traced back even to the early 12th century. The breed was originally bred in royal kennels to be used in falconry and they are still, nowadays used by falconers in Portugal too. The dogs quickly gained popularity among the lower classes of society as hunting companions. In the 16th century, the breed became known as the perdigueiro, from their Portuguese name where the word “perdiz” translates into partridge in English.

According to records, Portuguese navigators took the Portuguese Pointer along in their ships during the time of the discovery of the Americas, and the breed was used in the formation of popular breeds such as the Labrador Retriever. Many English families, in the 18th century, established a presence in the region of Oporto, in Portugal, entering the business of wine production, and during their leisure time, they came to be introduced to the Portuguese hunting breed. The Englishmen quickly became amazed by the breed’s abilities, so later, when returning to their homes in England, they brought Portuguese Pointer puppies with them. That is the reason why, the Portuguese Pointer is thought to be playing a part in the breeding process, thus an ancestor of the English Pointer.

Although, during the 19th century, the breed began to decline progressively, because Portugal was experiencing significant social hardships. Until the 1920s, some breeders made an endeavor to salvage the breed by locating some of the ancient Portuguese dogs in the northern parts of Portugal which were considered inaccessible and very hard to reach.

In 1932, the Portuguese pedigree book was then established, and then, the breed standard became specified in 1938. Nowadays, a thousand years after its creation the breed still remains many of the same conformation and functional traits as its ancestors possessed. Having a square head, a marked stop, triangular ears, and compact look and since the 17th century, the same docked tail, and a very distinguishing skull-facial convergence. The breed is also popular among the hunting society, using them, not just as family pets, but as hunting companions for upload game birds.

Rate The Portuguese Pointer Breed

Portuguese Pointer Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Mel

    Feb 2, 2020, 6:08:25 PM: