German Pointer breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About German Pointers
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the German Pointer breed
German Pointers, also known as German Shorthaired Pointers, are a versatile and intelligent breed originating from Germany. Bred in the 19th century by crossing various hunting breeds, they were designed to be an all-purpose hunting companion capable of excelling in both field and water environments.
These dogs are celebrated for their sleek, athletic build, which combines power and agility, making them highly effective hunters and energetic companions. This breed is not only admired for its physical prowess but also for its loyal and affectionate nature, making them great family pets when their high energy levels are accommodated.
Weight, height & life expectancy
German Pointers are medium-sized dogs, with males typically standing around 62 to 66cm in height, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 58 to 63cm. Their weight often ranges between 25 and 32kg, with males on the heavier end of the spectrum.
Their life expectancy is usually between 12 and 14 years.
What is the temperament of a German Pointer like?
German Pointers have a wonderful temperament. They are friendly, outgoing, and eager to please their owners. They make excellent family pets and are known to be gentle and patient with children.
These dogs are highly intelligent and have a strong desire to work and please their owners. They excel in various dog sports and activities such as obedience, agility, and tracking. Due to their hunting background, German Pointers have a natural instinct to point and retrieve game. They can be easily trained to be excellent hunting companions, but they also thrive in homes where they are given other outlets for their energy and intelligence.
Our German Pointer Community
“Bryn has lots of energy to play and walk, but equally loves to cuddle and sleep. He is very friendly and will make friends with ANYONE… young or old, dog or human! He is a velcro dog so prepare for you personal space to be invaded. Bryn has triathlon and marathon running parents and has now started running, so he is also a great running partner!”
Bryn’s owner, Amy from Hertfordshire
“Myla is very friendly and affectionate. Being a working breed she is incredibly active, clever and needs lots of engagement. Myla does weekly HPR (hunter, pointer, retriever) gundog training so there are lots of retrieving games that can be played with her, which are mentally stimulating and sometimes are as tiring as a walk. She loves retrieving from a ball chuck it.”
Myla’s owner, Alix from the Isle of Wight
How much exercise does a German Pointer need?
German Pointers are energetic dogs that require a substantial amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They are built for endurance and can accompany you on long hikes, runs, or even bike rides. Ideally, they should get at least 1 to 2 hours of exercise every day. This can include walks, playtime in a secure area, and mentally stimulating activities like puzzle toys or training sessions.
Pointer pups should get no more than 5 minutes of exercise per month of age per day. By the time they reach adulthood, around 1 year old, they can usually handle the full exercise needs of an adult, if amounts of exercise are increased gradually.
Keep in mind that German Pointers are active both physically and mentally, so providing them with opportunities to use their instincts and abilities is important. Engaging them in activities that challenge their problem-solving skills or participating in dog sports can be highly beneficial.
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Do German Pointers need a lot of grooming?
German Pointers have short, dense coats that are relatively low-maintenance. They are easy to groom and typically require a weekly brushing to remove any loose hair and keep their coat looking shiny. Regular brushing also helps to minimise shedding, which can be moderate year-round.
The breed's coat comes in a variety of striking colours and patterns, including solid liver, liver and white, black and white, and roan combinations. Their sleek and smooth coat not only adds to their elegance but also reflects their athletic nature. Occasional baths, as needed, will keep their coat fresh and free from dirt, especially after outdoor adventures.
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.
Are German Pointers easy to train?
German Pointers are intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them generally easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards, praise, and treats.
Consistency and patience are key when training German Pointers. Start training from an early age and focus on socialisation to help them become well-rounded dogs. Early exposure to different people, animals, and environments will help them develop into confident and friendly companions. Training classes can be beneficial for these smart pooches, particularly for first-time dog owners.
Want to experience spending time with a German Pointer to decide if this breed is right for you? Borrow a German Pointer near you.
What do German Pointers eat?
Providing your German Pointer with a high-quality, balanced diet is essential to support their health, energy levels, and overall well-being. Select a dog food that is specifically formulated to meet their age, size, and activity level requirements. Consult your veterinarian or pet food supplier for guidance on choosing the best diet for your dog.
When your German Pointer is a puppy, feed them puppy food 3–4 times a day to support their rapid growth and development. Around 6 months of age, reduce their meals to twice a day. Continue feeding puppy-specific food until they are about 12 months old or as recommended by your vet, as nutritional needs can vary between individual dogs.
Once they reach adulthood, maintain a routine of feeding them twice daily, dividing their daily portion into two balanced meals. Be mindful not to overfeed, as German Pointers are prone to weight gain. Regularly monitor their weight and body condition, adjusting their food portions as needed based on their activity level and overall health.
Are German Pointers healthy?
German Pointers are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Some issues that may affect German Pointers include:
Bones and joints
Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint
Eyes
Entropion - this is where the eyelids roll in, causing eyelashes to rub onto the surface of the eye
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) - over time the back of the eye becomes damaged which can reduce your dog’s vision, eventually leading to blindness
Gastrointestinal
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) - this occurs when the stomach twists and gas and contents get trapped inside. It is a very serious condition and a vet should be contacted immediately
Hormonal
Hypothyroidism - a condition where your dog does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
This list is by no means comprehensive, if you have any concerns about the health of your dog, or if you want to discuss further if a German Pointer is right for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
Ensure your German Pointer gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. This high-energy, intelligent breed thrives on activities like running, hiking, or agility training. Without adequate physical and mental engagement, they can become bored, which may lead to undesirable behaviours. A well-exercised German Pointer is a happy and well-behaved companion!
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.
