The German Shorthaired Pointer is a medium-size, versatile sporting dog. He is also an even-tempered and loyal family watchdog and companion. His endurance, intelligence, and nobility are reflected in his handsome appearance: a deep chest, smooth pace, and dignified expression.

The German Shorthaired Pointer was carefully developed in Germany over the late 1800s to produce the multitalented dog of today. Many dogs were mixed together to create one dog with many skills. It began with the crossing of some kind of German bird dog with the old Spanish Pointer, a heavy and somewhat slow dog with an excellent scenting ability. Local scenting hounds, as well as English Foxhounds, were bred into the dogs to add tracking skills and duck hunting over water to the dog’s traits. English Pointers were brought into the breeding process to add quickness, grace, and their elegant, highly held nose.

All German Shorthaired Pointers are solid liver or liver and white; no other colors are allowed. A quick weekly brushing is all their coats need. Their gentle, good-humored eyes should be brown, the darker the better. The tail is docked to less than half its original length.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Noble and well-balanced; his form reflects power, endurance, agility, intelligence, and energy. He shows keen enthusiasm for his work and is not nervous or flighty.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height—males, 23 to 25 inches at withers; females, 21 to 23 inches. Weight—males, 55 to 70 pounds; females, 45 to 60 pounds.  

Fun Facts

This is a great dog for a family that likes outdoor activities. The German Shorthaired Pointer is strong willed, so obedience training is a good idea. He is affectionate with his family.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.