Webvet
Main Content
Pointer
The Pointer is a large, graceful sporting breed. They require minimal grooming but do need plenty of exercise. Pointers are revered hunters for their stamina and devotion.
Try out our new Dog Breed Chooser Tool to help you select a breed.
Breed Facts
Finding a Pointer
Physical Characteristics
- Muscular, athletic body
- The nose may be level with the muzzle or slightly higher than the rest of muzzle
- Medium-sized ears, pendant and partially pointed
- Straight, tapered tail
- Coat: Shiny, smooth, hard hair; Color: Liver, lemon, black, orange; either in combination with white or solid-colored.
- Eyes: Should be dark in contrast with the colors of the markings, the darker the better
- Height: Dogs: 25-28 inches; Bitches: 23-26 inches
- Weight: Dogs: 55-75 pounds; Bitches: 45-65 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-14 years
Temperament
- Adaptable, smart, even-tempered, affectionate, loyal, independent, energetic
- Interaction with people: May be reserved toward strangers, but early socialization will help combat this
- Training: Socialize early to combat tendency for timidity
Medical Conditions
- Deafness
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Ophthalmic disorders (including cataracts and entropion)
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; does best in rural areas
- Extremely energetic and tireless; needs vigorous daily exercise
- Enthusiastic hunter, calm at home
Grooming
- Easy to groom
- Average shedder throughout the year; short needle-like hairs
- Brush regularly with a firm-bristle brush
- Dry coat after hunting to keep from chilling
- Check ears regularly
Other Facts
- Bred for the sport of hunting
- Pointing behavior may develop as early as eight weeks old
- Can be great therapy dogs
- Development of the pointer took place completely within Great Britain
- First dog used to stand game
- Pre-Victorian legend tells of a pointer lost on the moors and found a year later - as a skeleton of a dog pointing to a skeleton of a bird
Breed History
- First Pointers appeared in England around 1650
- Lineage includes Foxhound, Greyhound and Bloodhound
- Named for the motionless stance the dog assumes once he has found game
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the American Pointer Club For breed rescue opportunities, visit Pointer Rescue
Introducing Pet-Pods...
FREE downloadable PDF files providing a comprehensive review of some of the most timely pet health topics: Allergies, Fleas, Summer Safety Hazards, and Vomiting and Diarrhea.
Newsletter Signup
Featured Video
Featured Photo
Social Media Icons
Follow Us: