fellfolio
Herding dog
German Shepherd
An alert working dog that enjoys learning and benefits from a clear role. Strength and herding instincts both need to be part of the plan.
Pointing dog
German Shorthaired Pointer
A versatile hunting dog with a fine nose and high stamina. Shared work and reliable recall are central parts of daily life.
Size: LargeActivity: Very highGrooming: Several times weekly
At a glance
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 56–67 cm
- Weight
- 20–34 kg
- Lifespan
- over 10 years
- Activity
- Very high
- Grooming
- Several times weekly
- Training
- Demanding activities
- Owner experience
- Experience recommended
Run, search, work together
German Shorthaired Pointers were bred for hunting. Many are friendly and keen to learn, but need daily activity. A scent outdoors can be more compelling than recall.
Everyday life
PDSA recommends over two hours of exercise. Combine running with scent and retrieving work. Use a lead and enclosed areas until recall is reliable.
When you need to go out
Being alone needs gradual practice. The RSPCA advises no more than four hours at a time; puppies and some adults need much shorter intervals. Arrange company during longer absences.
Day-to-day care
Brush short-coated dogs once or twice a week. Wire- and rough-coated varieties may also need occasional stripping; PDSA’s German Pointer entry covers more than one German pointing breed.
Size and build
The figures come from PDSA’s combined German Pointer entry. Short-, wire- and long-haired varieties are not given separate measurement series there.
Health
That page lists hip dysplasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus, von Willebrand disease, atopy, and eye and heart problems. Ask a breeder and vet which concerns apply to the specific variety.
Could this breed fit your life?
Could work well if …
- You want to take part in sport or hunting work with your dog.
- You can offer substantial exercise and consistent recall training.
May be more difficult if …
- You keep small pets and cannot safely manage hunting behaviour.
- You want a relaxed companion that is content with little activity.
Breed traits describe tendencies. Breeding line, socialisation, care and experience shape the individual. Children and animals always need responsible supervision.
Similar needs, different dogs.
Selected by shared size, activity, grooming and training characteristics.
Sled dog
Siberian Husky
An enduring sled dog with a dense coat and a strong need to move. Company, secure routes and summer heat all need planning.
Working and guarding dog
Dobermann
Athletic, alert and closely bonded to its family. A Dobermann needs plenty of exercise and regular training, while its short coat requires little grooming.
Sources and photograph credit
Portrait · Pleple2000 · CC BY-SA 2.5 · Image cropped
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