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The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) was bred in Germany as an all-round hunting dog. Its talents include tracking and retrieving in water and on land. Their loyal and affectionate temperament also earmarked them as beloved family pets. GSPs are intelligent and love to learn, so puppy classes and ongoing training will help develop their talents and personality.

German shorthaired pointers come in a variety of colors, including German Shorthaired Pointers solid liver (brown), liver and white spotted, liver and white spotted and ticked, liver roan, solid black, black and white spotted, black and white spotted and ticked.

Because many people underestimate their high energy needs, many German shorthaired pointers end up in shelters or rescue organisations. Of course, you can buy pedigree GSP puppies from registered breeders, but you could just as easily adopt an older German shorthaired pointer puppy or adult dog from a breed-specific rescue organisation.

German Short Haired Pointer Facts & Information

Group: The German Shorthaired Pointer belong to the gundog group of sporting dog breeds.

Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years

Size: Large. Height: 21 – 26 in. Weight: 45 – 70 lb.

Temperament: Enthusiastic (about everything), friendly, affectionate and loyal.

Exercise: As highly active working dogs, German shorthaired pointers (GSPs) need a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation. Plain walks won’t cut it because they like to run, so take your GSP somewhere where he can stretch his legs and his lungs. Training is great, especially positive reinforcement obedience training, to channel the energy. Dog sports, especially field trials, are highly recommended.

GSP in action

General care: German shorthaired pointers have short, manageable coats with low grooming requirements. Weekly brushing sessions with a hound glove will do. You will need to check your GSP’s ears regularly to ensure they are healthy and clean because the breed is prone to ear infections.

Health concerns: As mentioned, your German shorthaired pointer is prone to ear infections but there are some other health problems that have crept into the breed. These include gastric torsion, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, heart disease and some cancers. Getting pet dog insurance will help you give your GSP the care she needs in any medical emergency.

Final word

German shorthaired pointers are great as family pets because they love all people and can be especially good with children. As hunting dogs, however, they have a strong prey drive, so it might not be a good idea to have little animals in the house, like hamsters and rabbits. They thrive with active families who love spending time communing with nature, but don’t do very well cooped up in townhouses or flats with little to keep them occupied.

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