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German Shorthaired Pointer Information & Dog Breed Facts

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

Group Gun Dog
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German Shorthaired Pointer dog profile picture
OriginGermany flagGermany
Other Names
What other names does the German Shorthaired Pointer have?
Deutscher Kurzhaariger VorstehhundKurzhaarDeutsch KurzhaarGSP Dog
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Photo Gallery of the German Shorthaired Pointer Breed

German Shorthaired Pointer Size and Weight

Size
Is a German Shorthaired Pointer small, medium or large dog?

How big do German Shorthaired Pointer get?

What is the average size of a German Shorthaired Pointer?

LargeMedium
Weight
How much does the German Shorthaired Pointer weigh? How much should a German Shorthaired Pointer weight? What is the normal weight of a German Shorthaired Pointer? How much does a full-grown German Shorthaired Pointer weight?
Male: 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg), Female: 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a German Shorthaired Pointer?
Male: 62.5 pounds (28.5 kg), Female: 52.5 pounds (23.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the German Shorthaired Pointer? German Shorthaired Pointer height:
Male: 23-25 inches (59-64 cm), Female: 21-23 inches (53-58 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a German Shorthaired Pointer?
Male: 24 inches (61.5 cm), Female: 22 inches (55.5 cm)

German Shorthaired Pointer Price and Availability

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

Where to buy a German Shorthaired Pointer with a good pedigree?

$600-$800
If you choose to purchase the German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the German Shorthaired Pointer gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a German Shorthaired Pointer? How many German Shorthaired Pointer are there in the world?
Very frequent: The German Shorthaired Pointer is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

German Shorthaired Pointer Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the German Shorthaired Pointer? Is the German Shorthaired Pointer breed dumb or smart?
Very smart: German Shorthaired Pointer is an excellent dog breed. You can teach them many tricks and commands. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in 5-15 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 85% of the time or better.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is one of the top breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are German Shorthaired Pointer dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a German Shorthaired Pointer?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are very easy to train. They easily find out the association between commands and actions.
Watchdog Ability
Is German Shorthaired Pointer good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

German Shorthaired Pointer Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the German Shorthaired Pointer have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
IntelligentAffectionateTrainableBoldCooperativeBoisterous
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? German Shorthaired Pointer sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. German Shorthaired Pointer dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a German Shorthaired Pointer a good family dog?
Average to High: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund need? German Shorthaired Pointer social needs:
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the German Shorthaired Pointer to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does German Shorthaired Pointer roam?
German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer have high prey drive?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

German Shorthaired Pointer Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund bark?
Average: The German Shorthaired Pointer barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

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

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

German Shorthaired Pointer Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a German Shorthaired Pointer be left alone? How long can you leave a German Shorthaired Pointer alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

German Shorthaired Pointer Bite Characteristics

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

Between 200 and 400 PSI

German Shorthaired Pointer bite force: Ordinary. Bite force German Shorthaired Pointer measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a German Shorthaired Pointer is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This German Shorthaired Pointer bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer puppy not to bite from an early age.

The German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do German Shorthaired Pointer bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund? What are the odds of getting bitten by a German Shorthaired Pointer? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer do?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but German Shorthaired Pointer dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

German Shorthaired Pointer Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
German Shorthaired Pointers are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the German Shorthaired Pointer breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the German Shorthaired Pointer breed? Most common health risks of German Shorthaired Pointer:
HypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseEntropionOsteochondrosis DissecansCardiomyopathyPannusGastric TorsionCanine Hip Dysplasia (CHD)Lymphedema
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the German Shorthaired Pointer breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the German Shorthaired Pointer see the vet?
Rare
The German Shorthaired Pointer should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs live? How old can a German Shorthaired Pointer be? What is the age limit of the German Shorthaired Pointer? How many years can the oldest German Shorthaired Pointer live?

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

How long is the lifespan of a German Shorthaired Pointer?

12-14 years
The average lifespan of German Shorthaired 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.

German Shorthaired Pointer Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the German Shorthaired Pointer have? What is the activity level of the German Shorthaired Pointer?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a German Shorthaired Pointer need? How much exercise do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs require per day?

Do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs need a lot of exercises?

German Shorthaired Pointer dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the German Shorthaired Pointer breed need?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

German Shorthaired Pointer Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a German Shorthaired Pointer need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a German Shorthaired Pointer breed eat per day? What is good dog food for German Shorthaired Pointer? How much food should I feed my German Shorthaired Pointer?
3 to 4 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? German Shorthaired Pointer risk for obesity:
Average: The German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer weight regularly.

German Shorthaired Pointer Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the German Shorthaired Pointer have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Dense
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper German Shorthaired Pointer coats?
Black White LiverRoan Copper
Grooming
How to groom the German Shorthaired Pointer and how often? How often should I take my German Shorthaired Pointer to the groomer?
Effortless: The German Shorthaired Pointer requires minimal 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 sometimes to avoid infections. German Shorthaired Pointer is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund? Do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs shed a lot?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the German Shorthaired Pointer need a bath? How often should you give a German Shorthaired Pointer a bath? Can I bathe my German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer breed hypoallergenic?
No
German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer drool?
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the German Shorthaired Pointer could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the German Shorthaired Pointer.

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

German Shorthaired Pointer Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs get along with other pets? Are German Shorthaired Pointer dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? German Shorthaired Pointer temperament with other people:
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are German Shorthaired Pointer dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? German Shorthaired Pointer temperament with children:
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer breed live with a cat?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is German Shorthaired Pointer good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs get along with other dogs?
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the German Shorthaired Pointer can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is German Shorthaired Pointer breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is German Shorthaired Pointer breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are German Shorthaired Pointer dogs good office canines? Do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
German Shorthaired Pointer is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do German Shorthaired Pointer dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund temperament with senior people? Are German Shorthaired Pointer dogs good for elderly owners?
German Shorthaired Pointers are usually recommended for elderly people.

German Shorthaired Pointer As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can German Shorthaired 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).

German Shorthaired Pointer is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can German Shorthaired Pointer be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a German Shorthaired 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.

German Shorthaired Pointer is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

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

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work. 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.

German Shorthaired Pointer breed is a good choice for detection purposes.

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

Yes

This breed would make an excellent 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 in locating missing people.

The German Shorthaired Pointer breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

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

Not really

German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired 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.

German Shorthaired Pointer is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

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

Not really

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

German Shorthaired Pointer Reproducibility

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

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female German Shorthaired 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 German Shorthaired Pointer have in a litter? How many puppies can the German Shorthaired Pointer breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a German Shorthaired Pointer have? How many puppies can a German Shorthaired Pointer give birth to?
7-12 puppies

German Shorthaired Pointer Recognition

AKC Group
Is German Shorthaired Pointer recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930 as a Sporting breed.
FCI Group
Is German Shorthaired Pointer recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Pointing Dogs group, in the Continental Pointing Dogs section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the German Shorthaired Pointer breed?
American Kennel ClubCanadian Kennel ClubFederation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainAustralian National Kennel CouncilNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

German Shorthaired Pointer Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Very smart: German Shorthaired Pointer is an excellent dog breed.
  • Trainability: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are very easy to train.
  • Health Issues: German Shorthaired Pointers are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming: Effortless: The German Shorthaired Pointer requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The German Shorthaired Pointer is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Adaptability: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: German Shorthaired Pointers are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog: After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
  • Search and Rescue Dog (SAR): This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the German Shorthaired Pointer breed.
  • Mouthiness: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Cat Friendly: German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: German Shorthaired Pointer is not the best dog breed for office environment.

German Shorthaired Pointer History

Fulfilling a need

In Germany, dense forests blended with open fields and housed all types of feather and fur, including grouse, rabbit, fox, deer, wolves, and wild boar. It was there that the Teutonic hunters aspired to produce a hunting dog that could effectively hunt all types of wildlife in all types of terrain available in their country. They needed a canine with a sensitive nose that could find a game from a safe distance. As most German hunters hunted on foot, they needed a dog with enough discipline and inbred instinct to stay on point once the game was discovered, allowing the hunters to close in on the target. Moreover, they wanted a hunting partner that could rescue fallen wildlife on land and in the water. In addition, the dog had to be courageous and aggressive enough to deal with and follow larger animals in the deep German forests, such as wild cats, foxes, and deer. Finally, and perhaps most crucially, these hunters desired a domestic pet who could be counted on to adequately protect the home and those inside when necessary. Keeping all of these quantities in mind, the seed of this dream was effectively planted, and the work has begun to develop such a dog.

 

Origins

The German Shorthaired Pointed was developed in the 19th century, but there are many different theories regarding the actual origins and ancestry of the breed. According to experts, the breed development was initiated by a cross between the old Spanish Pointer and traditional continental pointers, including the old German Pointer and the Braque Francais. Furthermore, to improve scenting abilities and soften the temperament of the new breed, German hunters decided to cross it with tracking hounds as the German Bloodhound and French Gascon. The genes of the German tracking hounds also helped to overcome many of the unpleasant or undesirable features of the traditional pointers, including reduced trailing ability, a natural dislike for water work, and a noticeable lack of aggressiveness towards predators.

However, early breeders remained dissatisfied despite all of these advancements. The dogs produced by the previous crossings were too slow in the hunt and lacked true agility. Furthermore, these hunters loved the scenting abilities that came from the Bloodhound but didn’t want their new breed to look like it. As a result, another cross with the English Pointer was made in the 1860s to improve the breed’s speed, style, appearance, and pointing instincts. All of these efforts resulted in a sleek, good-looking, clever, loyal, and versatile gundog with exceptional stamina, a keen sense of smell, a highly developed pointing instinct, and a desire to retrieve fallen game on land or in water. The German hunters now had a partner who could track and scent both furred and feathered game, point and retriever game birds, and deal with larger species such as deer, fox, and boar because he had the size, strength, and courage. Furthermore, the first studbook for the German Shorthaired Pointer as its own defined breed did not come about until 1870. Though the standard for the breed in Germany was set in 1879, many individuals out there were removed from the breeding pool as the standard set a correct type for the breed and started to standardize it.

 

The 20th century

As Germany became more united, the German Pointer evolved as well. Unfortunately, the two World Wars in which Germany was involved resulted in significant gaps in the breeding stock. Some kennels that thrived before the World Wars found it impossible to rehabilitate thereafter. During World War II, the fascist government-controlled hunting and the breeding of all hunting dogs with Hermann Goering minister responsible for all matters relating to both. At that time his order said that all clear white and liver dogs should be destroyed because they did not blend in with the woods like the solid liver and liver roans. There was little to no information about the kennels of East Germany as very little of the breeding stock was rescued or survived. What is known for sure is that a breeder named Gustav Machetanz has managed to escape with a few dogs ahead of the approaching Russian army and resettle in West Germany. This is very significant because one of his dogs, Axel vom Wasserschling proved to be one of the most important sires after the war and was essential in rebuilding the breed in Germany.

 

Outside of Germany/U.S recognition

Fortunately, before the World Wars, the German Shorthaired Pointer had also caught some American hunters’ attention. These hunters imported dogs into the United States. The breed was admitted into the American Kennel Club in 1935, and its popularity increased in 1938 in Minnesota and Wisconsin, which allowed dedicated breeders to apply to the AKC for a club status, which resulted in the formation of the German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America. This sparked a wave of significant revisions in the breed standard. The first was in 1946,  again the following year in 1947, along with several more. The last and most recent being in 1992.

Rate The German Shorthaired Pointer Breed

German Shorthaired Pointer Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Lori Vrbanac

    Dec 28, 2022, 9:37:19 AM:

    Thought He was lost; didn’t find for 1 1/2 hrs Found on point standing nearly 90 degree nose down huge quail covey out of wind on a steep path Held point so long his leg muscles trembling. Fantastic!

  • Nia

    Feb 25, 2022, 6:45:51 AM:

  • German shorthaired pointer puppy owner

    May 29, 2021, 6:46:12 AM:

    The best dog ever! He is so smart and he is the cutest

  • german short hair pointers

    May 8, 2020, 2:12:59 AM:

    best dog i’ve ever had and i’ve a lot of dogs

  • Holly

    Apr 15, 2020, 1:54:20 AM:

    Amazing dogs! Really love them