Choosing to add a furry friend to your growing household is a long-term commitment, and picking a breed that fits your lifestyle is the key to a happy home. With over 160 American Kennel Club-recognized breeds, that decision can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help you meet the breed that’s right for you. If you’re looking for a gentle four-legged giant to add to your pack, find out everything you need to know about the German Shorthaired Pointer.
- Highly energetic
- Easy grooming
- Long lifespan
- Active lifestyle
- Pleasant temperament
Overview
If there was ever a quarterback of the canine team, the German Shorthaired Pointer would be it. The ultimate jock of the dog world, this breed excels at sports, including — hunting, tracking, pointing, sled pulling and just about any other activity you’d like to challenge it with. With a waterproof coat and webbed feet, German Shorthaired Pointers also make excellent swimmers. This high-energy breed makes an excellent addition for equally active families.
Breed standards
- AKC group: Sporting
- UKC group: Gun Dog
- Average lifespan: 12-14 years
- Average size: 45-70 lbs
- Coat appearance: Short, coarse, thick
- Coloration: Varies
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Other identifiers: Muscular, lean and chiseled body frame; clean-cut exterior; docked tail and dropped ears.
- Possible alterations: None
Is this breed right for you?
Couch potatoes steer clear of this energetic and athletic breed. Bred to excel in all land, sea and air athletics, the German Shorthaired Pointer requires rigorous daily exercise and then some. Due to its hyperactivity levels, this breed is recommended for families with older children who can keep up with an active lifestyle. This pup requires little maintenance in the grooming department, but if you’re not tolerant of shedding, this breed is not for you.
A dream day-in-the-life
A day filled with activities of any sort will keep this energetic pup happy and healthy. Running, dock jumping, playing fetch, herding and more encompass a perfect day for the German Shorthaired Pointer. Give it a daily job like herding farm animals or take it as your hunting partner, and this pooch will be in doggy heaven. Nothing would make this active dog frown more than sitting on a couch in a small apartment all day, so non-active households should steer clear of this sporting breed.
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