Before You Adopt
Tips for finding the best cat or dog for you; plus: preparing for a puppy
Adopt a German Shorthaired Pointer
Picture: Kent and Donna Dannen
Family:
gundog, pointer, versatile hunting dog
Area of origin:
Germany
Original function:
general hunting
Average size of male:
Ht: 23-25, Wt: 55-70
Average size of female:
Ht: 21-23, Wt: 45-60
Other names:
German pointer (shorthaired), Deutscher, kurzhaariger vortsehund, kurzhaar
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Energy
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Exercise
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Playfulness
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Affection
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Friendliness towards dogs
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Friendliness towards other pets
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Friendliness towards strangers
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Ease of training
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Watchdog ability
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Protection ability
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Grooming
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Cold tolerance
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Heat tolerance
German Shorthaired Pointer Dogs Available on Petfinder Right Now
See more adoptable German Shorthaired Pointer dogs available on Petfinder
German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Temperament
The German shorthaired pointer's idea of heaven is a day hunting in the field and an evening curled up by his family's side. This is an active dog that can become frustrated and "creative" if not given ample daily exercise, both mental and physical. He is a devoted family pet, although at times he is overly boisterous for small children. Because part of his heritage includes hunting mammals, some may not be good with small pets. He is a sensitive breed, responsive to gentle training. Some can whine or bark a lot.
German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Care
Bred to be an active hunting companion, this breed has a good deal of energy and requires a good deal of exercise. He thrives on mental and physical stimulation and can get both by hunting, hiking or playing with his people for a long period, at least an hour, every day. They like water and will swim if given the chance. This is a companionable breed that does best when allowed to live in the house with access to a yard. His grooming needs are minimal, consisting only of occasional brushing to remove dead hair.
German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Health
Major concerns: lymphedema
Minor concerns: CHD, entropion, gastric torsion, vWD, pannus, OCD
Occasionally seen: gastric torsion, ectropion, PRA
Suggested tests: hip, eye, (blood)
Life span: 12-14 years
Dogs Related to the German Shorthaired Pointer
German Wirehaired Pointer
Pointer
Brittany
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Flat-Coated Retriever
English Setter
Gordon Setter
Shelters with German Shorthaired Pointer Dogs
Some animal welfare organizations with German Shorthaired Pointers ready for adoption:
