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German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an athletic sporting breed that requires plenty of exercise. They are tireless workers in the field, good family pets and active companions.
- GSPs do not come in rare colors or coat patterns
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Breed Facts
Finding a German Shorthaired Pointer
Physical Characteristics
- Elegant, well-balanced, symmetrical
- Medium sized, body is square or slightly longer than tall; well-muscled, lean, athletic build, pound for pound very strong
- Head does not have a dramatic "stop" like the Pointer. The muzzle is in proportion to length of skull; has sufficient depth and width to grasp and carry game long distances
- Ears are set above eye level, they are broad tapering to a rounded tip; they frame the head when viewed from the front
- Eyes are dark brown, almond shaped with close fitting not loose eyelids
- Tail docked, mature length approximately 6 to 8 inches (some may vary)
- Desired heights: Males: 23-25 inches; Females: 21-23 inches (some may vary)
- Desired weights: Males: 55 - 65 pounds; Females: 45 - 55 lbs (some may vary)
- Color of purebred GSPs are liver and white or black and white but not a combination of liver, black and white.
- Some liver dogs may appear quite dark but if their nose is liver in color the dog is liver. Black dogs will have a black nose.
- Coat patterns may vary from solid with small amounts of white to those with ticking and patching or a roan
Temperament
- Energetic, smart, loyal, protective, eager to please
- Interaction with people: Good with children if properly socialized; Can be aloof strangers
- Interaction with animals: If properly socialized can learn their place. Care should be used with small furry animal not raised with them.
- Level of attention needed: Bred to be part of the family thus does better with family interaction.
- Bark: If left unattended for long periods of time they can be destructive and/or vocal.
Medical Conditions
- Bloat
- Acquired cardiac disease (including cardiomyopathy)
- Ophthalmic disorders (including progressive retinal atrophy, cone degeneration disease and entropion)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Not recommended for apartments
- Needs large yard with fence and active family
- Adaptable to most climates with proper protection
- Opportunist - will steal food and treats if left unattended
Grooming
- Sheds, can put on a heavier coat in colder climates
- Brush with a rubber horse brush or grooming glove
- Bath - if excessively dirty, careful to keep soap and water out of the ears
- Use a gentle shampoo so as not to strip essential oils from the coat
- Keep toenails trimmed and check feet; especially after field work or exercise
- Examine ears regularly to prevent infection
- Keep teeth clean with toothpaste made for dogs
Other Facts
- The SUV of sporting dogs
- Because of its varied coat patterns it is often mistaken for a Dalmatian, English Pointer, Blue Heeler, Spaniel or Labrador Retriever
- Average lifespan: 10-12 years, older dogs can be quite active
- Versatile gun dog, very athletic
- Bright and creative if not given a job can become bored
- Popular sporting dog breed - learns quickly
- First recorded import in 1925 from Austria by Dr. Charles Thornton of Missoula, MT
- The first American Kennel Club Licensed Specialty Show for this breed took place in 1942 in Chicago
Breed History
- Developed in the late 1800s' to be an all purpose gun dog
- Bred down from early French, Mediterranean Spain & Italian Pointers; Hanover Hound, Arkwright Pointer
- Purpose - a gun dog bred to point and retrieve all types of game regardless if fur or feather, to work in all conditions regardless if open fields, woods or water, track wounded game, stand its ground in face of a predator or a poacher.
- Not bred to be a kennel or pack dog, but as part of the family
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit GSPCA Rescue
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