Breed Spotlight: The German Shorthaired Pointer
What are German Shorthaired Pointers? These less-common but majestic hunting dogs are sought after for their strong prey drive and companionable spirit. Here’s everything you need to know about this strong, energetic breed.
Breed History
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) was developed after over a century of breeding. German hunters if the 1700s were after the perfecting hunting dog to assist them. It was sometime in the 1800s that these breeds perfected the match of tracking and pointing hounds to create the present-day GSP.
The breed both then and today is credited as being one of the best hunting breeds. They are excellent trackers; their webbed toes make them superb swimmers and they are loyal companions. Even today, they are a top pick for avid hunters and family guardians. As hunters though, they do best with a very active family.
Physical Traits
The GSP stands 21 to 25 inches tall and weighs around 50 to 70 pounds. The breed is often described as being athletic, aristocratic, and well-balanced. As all pointers, the breed is known for its especially straight clean lines. This is especially the case when in the field.
They have a very unique coat coloration as well. Their short coat is normally a combination of white and “liver” color. This combination usually results in a liver or red-grey head with a speckled body of the same coloring. The speckling pattern on these dogs is often referred to as “ticked,” and can really help the dog hid well during the winter. The combination of liver and white looks almost like mud covered with snow, so the breed really has an advantage when hunting in the winter months.
To Dock, or Not to Dock
According to the American Kennel Club, the tail of the GSP must be docked. Any GSP who does not have a docked tail is disqualified from the competition. The practice of tail docking is simply the removal of a section of a dog’s tail for cosmetic reasons. For the GSP, the tail is normally docked to around 40% of its original size.
Docking the GSP’s tail is a must for the American Kennel Club. The practice has been made illegal in a number of countries, however. Sweden, Norway, Finland, Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands have all made the practice illegal. Many other European countries have passed legislation that has put restrictions on who can dock a dog’s tail and for what reasons the practice can be done.
Health Traits
Generally, the GSP is a healthy breed. Though, the breed can be affected by these medical conditions:
- Cancer
- Lymphedema
- Bloat
- Lupus
- Hip dysplasia
Because the GSP is a hunting dog, they can also come into contact with many different fungi and bacteria. If they have any open wounds that are exposed, these fungi and bacteria can infect the dog. If a GSP is used for hunting, any cuts or wounds should be dressed immediately to keep them safe. In addition, you should always make sure your dog has updated vaccines. Due to their hunting drive, they may come in contact with a variety of animals. To reduce the risk of diseases such as rabies, keep your dog’s shots up-to-date.
Grooming
Grooming is a snap for the GSP. They have a short coat that will need at least a weekly brushing. You can keep your home a bit cleaner if you brush them more often during their shedding periods. Because their hair is short, it can get stuck in fabrics and become difficult to clean up later. It’s easier to take the loose hair off the dog rather than off your furniture.
You should also check their ears during their weekly brushing. Because they have long ears, dirt and debris can build up in them if left unchecked. Trim their nails and bathe them as needed.
Also, if your dog spends time with you in the woods, be sure to check for ticks and small injuries.
Temperament
While grooming a GSP is rather easy, their exercise requirements are a bit more intensive. They need a lot of daily exercise. Actually, they are one of the most energetic dog breeds around. Most do best when given two hours of exercise a day.
When they are not able to get their energy out, the GSP can become bored and destructive. When properly exercised, the breed is a great companion. They love being around their family, and they are very intelligent and trainable. As a hunter, they will need to be trained on what is prey and what is off-limits. Houses with small pets, like hamsters, will need to train the dog that the pets are not food. For the most part, the dog will eventually understand, though they may still bring prey they’ve hunted home to show the family.
The GSP loves to be worked hard. They excel at hunting, running, carting, mushing, or dog scootering. These are great activities to help get out their almost endless energy.
Final Thoughts
The GSP as a great dog for active families. They want a lot of attention and have a lot of energy to get out. They’re also very bright and trainable, so a firm but loving pet owner can help develop this breed into the perfect dog.