German Shorthaired Pointer
Quick facts
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AKC Group: | Sporting |
| Height: | Male: 23 – 25 inches; Female: 21 – 23 inches | |
| Weight: | Male: 55–70 pounds; Female: 45-60 pounds | |
| Colors: | liver or combination of liver and white | |
| AKC recognized in: | 1930 | |
Developed during the 1800s for hunting in Germany, the German Shorthaired Pointer or GSP is one dog breed streamlined with strong and powerful hindquarters. Ideal companions during hunting season, they are fast and capable of turning swiftly. Descended from the Spanish Pointer, a GSP is one unique breed especially when it comes to its outer features.
GSPs have fairly long floppy ears which are set a bit high on their heads. Their broad, strong muzzles enable them to retrieve heavy hunts during sporting and hunting events. Their profile is described as having straight Roman noses with eyes that are either brown or dark. Typically docked are their tails although in some countries, tail-docking is now prohibited. The docked tail must balance both the dog’s body and head and should not be too short or long. GSPs also have webbed feet just like the rest of all German Pointers.
It is a fun fact that the coloring of GSPs renders camouflage during the frosty months. The GSPs coat colored in dark brown or white creates concealment when they are lying down in broken snow or standing beside dead wintry trees.
Temperament
| Affection |  |
| Cold Tolerance | |
| Ease of Training | |
| Energy level | |
| Exercise Requirements | |
| Friendliness : Children | |
| Friendliness: Other Animals | |
| Friendliness: Other Pets | |
| Grooming Requirements | |
| Heat Tolerance | |
| Playfulness | |
| Protection Ability | |
| Watchdog Ability | |
The proper temperament of a GSP is that of a characteristically friendly, smart, and audacious kind of dog that is easily trained and very cooperative. GSPs are developed to suit family life and are great companions as well. You can easily coach them and they can learn new tricks fast.
German Shorthaired Pointers are actually excellent with kids although you might be careful when they are young as they can be rowdy and energetic. Proper care and attention should be given to them most of the time as these dogs just love human interaction. GSPs also appreciate families who provide energy outlets for them and in turn, reciprocate the favor by being cooperative and obedient in the long run.
Plus, GSPs are brilliant as watchdogs. Generally, the breed gets by with other dogs and they have a strong, instinctive nature. With the appropriate training, GSPs as family dogs can be able to live harmoniously with other family pets.
Usually, German Shorthaired Pointers are recommended additions to a family who appreciates the breed. They are well-suited for everyday life and are tremendously devoted and friendly. GSPs tend to be protective and vigilant when it comes to younger children as well.
Health and Exercise
German Shorthaired Pointers have an expected life span or between 12 and 14 years.
Indeed, a German Shorthaired Pointer is energetic with a penchant for fun and adventure. Tap that attitude by supplying the dog with tons of vigorous activities. Training GSPs is a necessity since the breed has a natural instinct to pounce on prey coupled with the enthusiasm for lively exercises. A uniquely independent character, the GSP has dynamic, physical enthusiasm and superior intelligence. If these traits are unused, the result will lead to undesirable performance since the breed will most likely amuse itself.
Lack of proper exercise and training can make a GSP hyperactive with adverse tendencies. Inactive dog owners are not suited to care for GSPs who are wired to exercise by themselves. These dogs should be given attention and sufficient training as they can likely escape enclosures easily and smartly. GSPs are known to hunt and may carry home dead trophies such as rats, birds, and cats. Teach them to distinguish what is prey and to keep their paws off other animals in your household.
GSPs are hunting dogs that are vulnerable to fungi especially on game hunts. The bacteria in the game can spread and cause infections on the gums. Female GSPs are also prone to breast cancer so have them checked by a veterinarian once in a while.
Visitor Comments
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