German Shorthaired Pointer Complete Breed Guide

German Short-haired Pointers are medium-large sized hunting dogs who also make excellent companions. They are loyal, loving, and protective. As long as they get plenty of exercise German Shorthaired Pointers are happy, family friendly dogs that fit right in with families who fill their calendar with lots of doggie-friendly outdoor activities.

German Short-haired Pointers are medium-large sized dogs who are always on the lookout for something to chase. Their naturally high prey drive makes them great partners for families who hunt. German Short-haired Pointers are very muscular and often have a coat with small spots or ticked markings. They are fiercely loyal to their families, which makes them excellent watchdogs and protectors of children. German Short-haired Pointers are very intelligent, so be prepared to keep them busy, or they’ll keep you busy by creating mischief. One great way to keep them happy is to take them on long hikes or doing anything that involves being outdoors.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

German Short-haired Pointers need room to roam. They do not do well in apartments and prefer homes with big backyards where they can safely play. Families with other pets, especially small furry kittens, should know that German Short-haired Pointers don’t always distinguish between your pets and animals they want to hunt. They can learn to play nice with your other pets if they are raised around them, but you’ll always want to keep an eye out for aggressive play. German Short-haired Pointers need lots of human interaction and attention, so be prepared to keep them entertained with plenty of outdoor activities and exercise.

Exercise & Activity

You know that friend of yours who does triathlons? That’s the German Shorthaired Pointer. They need at least an hour of daily exercise to stay happy. Their passion is hunting, but as long as you take them outdoors and have adventures together, they will be happy. If you don’t get your German Short-haired Pointer the exercise they need, they’ll find a way to get it on their own. Digging, barking, and even finding a way out of your backyard are a few ways your German Short-haired Pointer might tell you it’s high-time that you two had some rigorous fun together.

German Short-haired Pointers are smart, and they need to be kept occupied. They love anything that gets them outside and would be happy to try to hunt down any annoying critters that have been destroying your flower garden. German Short-haired Pointers are protectors, which means they may bark in an effort to warn you about any upcoming strangers or squirrels invading their territory. They learn fast, so you can work with them to reduce barking or any other forms of puppy hijinx.

The German Short-haired Pointer never needs a raincoat because their hair repels water and keeps them warm in harsh conditions, but their coat does shed quite a bit. The shedding happens seasonally as they prepare their bodies for what nature will be throwing at them next. It’s best to brush them every week or so to keep their coat and skin healthy and to cut down on shedding.