German Shorthaired Pointer

Exercise is of paramount importance for these tireless, energetic animals. They are more than a match for even the most active family and they should not be taken on as family pets unless they can be guaranteed plenty of vigorous exercise. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. If under-exercised, this breed can become restless and destructive.

Low Maintenance: The German Shorthair’s water-repellent coat has thick, short hair that protects the dog from brush and helps insulate him from the cold. The coat itself is easy to care for — brush it weekly with a rubber hound mitt or firm bristle brush to keep the hair and skin healthy — but the breed has a couple of grooming quirks you should be aware of.

Easy Training: The German Shorthaired Pointer is intelligent and has a well-deserved reputation of being highly trainable. German Shorthaired Pointers adapt easily to a wide variety of hunting and field jobs including pointing and retrieving on land and water.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is an all-purpose close-working gun dog that combines agility, power and endurance. It is square or slightly longer than tall; although it has a short back, it should stand over plenty of ground. It should have a clean-cut head, graceful outline, strong quarters and an athletic physique. The gait is smooth, light and ground-covering. The coat is short and tough.

The German shorthaired pointer's idea of heaven is a day hunting in the field and an evening curled up by its owner's side. This is an active dog that can become frustrated and "creative" if not given ample daily exercise, both mental and physical. It is a devoted family pet, although at times it is overly boisterous for small children. Because part of its heritage includes hunting mammals, some can be aggressive to small pets unless raised with them. It is a sensitive breed, responsive to gentle training. Some can whine or bark a lot.