German Shorthaired Pointer

Life span: 12 - 14 years
AKC group: Sporting
AKC rank: 19, and climbing slowly

Breed History | Background:

In the 1600s, a heavy type of pointer called the Spanish Pointer was crossed with a scent trailing hound called the Hannover Hound to produce a dog that could both trail and point mammals and birds. The dog could even dispatch wounded game, including fox.
Later crosses to English Pointers gave the dogs a more stylish look and a hunting style that was less scenthound like; that is, a nose-up style of locating game.
The dogs became known as Deutsch Kurzhaars.
In the early 1800s two of the dogs, named Nero and Treff, so distinguished themselves at the German Derby that their progeny became sought after. They are considered the foundation of the modern breed.
The first Shorthair came to America in the 1920s.
The AKC recognized the breed in 1930.
Although the German Wirehaired Pointer tends to be more popular in Germany, the German Shorthaired Pointer quickly became more favored in America as both a hunting dog and companion.

Behavioral concerns:

Makes an energetic and protective family member.
Gentle and playful with children, although may be too boisterous for small children.
Demanding of attention.
Loves to run and hunt.
Moderately outgoing toward strangers.
Usually good with other dogs.
Can be somewhat aggressive toward other pets.
Learns quickly.
Does best with a firm owner who can combine reward-based training with good control and leadership.
Some can whine or bark a lot.

Suggested exercise needs:

Makes a fairly calm and alert housedog if given adequate exercise. If not given enough exercise, can be overactive and destructive.
Requires daily exercise in the form of a long walk, or preferably, long jog. Vigorous games are also helpful.
A well-fenced yard is essential.
Hunting is the favored exercise. Swimming and retrieving are also favorites.
This is not a breed for an inactive owner.
Obedience training is essential not only for control, but for the mental exercise it provides.

Grooming:

Suggested Nutritional Needs:

GSPs tend to stay in good weight.
Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.

Medical conditions seen:

Glossary