Origin: France (1500s)
Weight: 40-60 pounds
Height: less than 14 inches
Life Span: 8-12 years
Breed Type: scenthound
The German Shorthaired Pointer is the result of the breeding of several hunting dogs like the Old Spanish Pointer, English Foxhound, and the English Pointer. This dog is ideal in retrieving, pointing, and tracking—on land and in water. With a muscular body and short coat in liver roan, liver, or liver and white, this dog is intelligent, strong, and hard working. At home, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a pleasant and loving pet. It gets along with kids, other pets, and the whole family. This social breed loves companionship and the feeling of belonging. It does not like being left alone for long periods. Eager to please and learn, this breed is highly trainable. Protective toward its family and home, the German Shorthaired Pointer makes a great watch dog. This breed needs a lot of activity. It needs an active family that would provide it with opportunities to run in a large open space. They would appreciate a large yard. Apartment living is not ideal for this dog. When it comes to grooming, they need the occasional brush and bath. Concerning health, German Shorthaired Pointers are prone to epilepsy, eye disease, and hip dysplasia. Weight gain is also a concern for this dog breed.