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About German Shorthaired Pointers
The German shorthaired pointer,
also referred to as the GSP, is a dog breed
that was created during the 1800s in Germany
to hunt. The specifics of the breed's origin
are not certainly known, though it is believed
that the German shorthaired pointer was bred
from the German bird dog, itself a descendant
of a pointer breed, as well as various other
breed. The German shorthaired pointer breed
was first recognized by the AKC in 1930.
A medium- to large-sized dog,
the German shorthaired pointer typically weighs
between 55 and 70 pounds and males and between
45 and 60 pounds in females. Male German shorthaired
pointers generally measure 23 to 25 inches in
height, while slightly smaller females usually
measure 21 to 23 inches in height.
Like many pointer breeds, the
German shorthaired pointer has a short coat
that lies flat against the skin. The German
shorthaired pointer also has a densely packed
undercoat that resists water and helps keep
the dog warm. The coat can be dark brown, called
liver, black, liver and white, or black and
white, although the AKC does not recognize any
colorations that include black. Many GSPs have
solid-colored heads and sometimes a solid "saddle,"
while the rest of the body is covered in small
white markings over the base color.
The German shorthaired pointer
is a smart and affectionate dog that is both
bold and obedient. It is good with children,
but may be somewhat rambunctious, particularly
as a puppy, so caution should be exercised with
small children. Because it is a hunting breed,
German shorthaired pointer owners should be
cautious if they own other small pets, though
the GSP can typically be taught that fellow
pets are not prey. The German shorthaired pointer
may be timid, shy, atypically submissive, or
aggressive, though these qualities are less
characteristic of the breed and more likely
to be avoided with proper socialization.
A high-energy breed, the German
shorthaired pointer is a very active dog. It
is important for its wellbeing and behavior
that it goes for a daily walk, job, or run,
and receives plenty of additional exercise and
play that stimulates it both physically and
mentally. Because of its very high exercise
requirement, the German shorthaired pointer
is best suited to an athletic owner or active
family and a home with a large yard.
While its exercise requirements
are high, the German shorthaired pointer is
a low-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming.
It requires only routine brushing, and should
be bathed only when necessary. Its feet and
ears should also be checked regularly.
The German shorthaired pointer
is a generally healthy breed, but, like any
dog, may experience health issues. The GSP is
prone to mast cell tumors, and some are susceptible
to conditions including hip dysplasia, epilepsy,
and lymphedema. The German shorthaired pointer
typically lives for 12 to 15 years.
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