German Longhaired Pointer

Everyday life

The German breed club selects for hunting ability and recommends placing puppies in working hunting homes. This is a breeding policy, rather than a general legal condition of owning the dog. It still matters to prospective owners: before choosing a puppy, you should know what hunting training, knowledgeable guidance and actual work you can provide.

A working day also includes quiet periods. After an outing, the dog can dry off and sleep while equipment is put away. On walks, it should learn to stay near you when asked, such as while cyclists pass or you look for a safe route into the water. Practise waiting on a quiet path first, rewarding your dog for staying beside you. As it becomes more confident, you can move the exercise to busier places.

Where wildlife is present, off-lead exercise and searching should match the dog's training and local rules. Start recall practice somewhere with fewer distractions. A long training line on a harness can help you move on to more demanding paths. Reward coming back, then allow further exploration where suitable. Staying in touch with you should remain worthwhile even when the surroundings offer fascinating scents.

In a home with children, the dog's sleeping place should be protected. Adults should supervise contact and show children how to give it space when eating or resting. Small pets need separate, secure areas. Your plans should also include dependable care during long working days.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

The longer hair on the ears, legs and tail needs regular attention. Burrs and fine twigs can collect there on woodland walks. Comb through gently several times a week, and after outings when needed. Small tangles are often easier to ease apart early. If matting is tight against the skin, ask a skilled groomer for help.

After walking through long grass, check the paws, spaces between the toes and ears for grass awns. These pointed plant parts can lodge in hair and skin. Sudden head shaking, constant paw licking or a tightly closed eye should be assessed by a vet. After water work, dry your dog and provide a clean, dry resting place. Short grooming exercises with rewards help a young dog understand these checks.

Size and build

The German Longhaired Pointer has been bred as a distinct breed since 1879. The later standard aimed to develop a more consistent, versatile working dog from the long-haired gundogs of the time. Today's breed remains closely linked to that practical role. Its coat includes various brown colours and brown-and-white patterns.

The international breed standard issued by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) gives a shoulder-height range of 60 to 70 cm for males, with 63 to 66 cm considered ideal. Females have a range of 58 to 66 cm and an ideal of 60 to 63 cm. Weight is described as an average of 30 kg. The standard therefore distinguishes the permitted height range from a narrower ideal range.

For a puppy, small searching games, choosing to come back to you and calmly waiting at an open door can provide early foundations. Physical demands should suit its age. Regular rests and suitable growth food help you raise the youngster without already expecting the stamina of an adult working gundog.

From puppy to senior: caring for your dog through every life stage ↗