German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed Overview
One of the most searched dog breeds on the internet, German Shorthaired Pointer belongs to the large size dog. Also known as Deutsch Kurzhaar, this breed was discovered first in the Germany.The average lifespan of this dog breed is 12-15 years and is associated with the Sporting Dogs Group.
| Dog Breed Name: | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|
| Other Names: | Deutsch Kurzhaar |
| Size: | large size dog |
| Average Height: | Male: 23-25 inches (59-64 cm), Female: 21-23 inches (53-58 cm) |
| Average Weight: | Male: 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg), Female: 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg) |
| Energy: | high energy levels |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Group: | Sporting Dogs |
| Life Span: | 12 to 15 years |
| Dog Breed Overview: | Early versions of this type of dog date to the 17th century, but German Shorthaired Pointers as we know them today were created to be multipurpose hunting dogs in the mid- to late nineteenth century. The forerunner to the GSP, the German Pointer or German Bird Dog, was a product of crosses between Spanish Pointers and Bloodhounds, resulting in big houndlike dog with a keen nose. Hunters selected for dogs with biddable personalities, but they came to want style and elegance to go along with that obedient nature and powerful scenting ability. They used Pointers imported from England to add style, and they created a dog that would work as well in water as on land.Prince Albrecht zu Solms-Braunfeld of the Royal House of Hanover was credited with encouraging breeders to select early specimens on the basis of function rather than form. The result was a lean, athletic, and responsive all-around hunting dog who is also an intelligent and affectionate companion dog.The first known German Shorthair in the United States was imported in 1925 by Dr. Charles Thornton of Montana, who began breeding the dogs. Only five years later, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club. The first German Shorthair registered with the AKC was Greif v.d. Fliegerhalde. |
| Colours: | Roan,Liver,White,Black |
| Temperament: | Affectionate,Bold,Intelligent,Boisterous,Cooperative,Trainable |
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German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed Price
German Shorthaired Pointer from regular breeders cost you from $600 to $800 per puppy.
German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed Size
The German Shorthaired Pointer varies in size: males are normally about 23-25 inches (59-64 cm), in height and around 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg), in weight, while females are normally around 21-23 inches (53-58 cm) in height and 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg) in weight.
German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed Temperament
German Shorthaired happy, trainable pets who bond firmly to their family. They are always up for physical activities like running, swimming, organized dog sports, anything that will burn some of their boundless energy while spending outdoors time with a human buddy.
German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed Lifespan
The average lifespan for a German Shorthaired Pointer is 12 to 15 years. That’s because these are medium-sized dogs with a good mix of genes in their blood.
Interesting Facts about German Shorthaired Pointer Dog
- German Shorthaired Pointers are high-energy dogs. At least an hour of intensive exercise, preferably off-leash, each day is recommended. Without sufficient exercise, your GSP may become nervous and destructive.
- GSPs are people-oriented and don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time without something to keep them busy. Since they are so intelligent, they will find something to keep them busy if you don’t — usually getting into something that you don’t want them to get into.
- Bored German Shorthaired Pointers can become escape artists, so you need at least a six-foot tall fence if you plan to leave them alone outside.
- GSPs bark at strangers and noises. They also are a bit reserved with strangers.
- Female GSPs typically are very protective of their puppies if they have a litter.
- To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they’re free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies, and that they have sound temperaments.
FAQ’s on German Shorthaired Pointer Dog
Are German Shorthaired Pointers smart?
Yes, German Shorthaired Pointers are a highly intelligent dog breed.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers trainable?
They are highly trainable, have the ability to learn complicated tasks, and perform excellently as search and rescue dogs.
Can German Shorthaired Pointers be kept with other dogs?
German Shorthaired Pointers make excellent watchdogs, as they are naturally a very vocal dog. The breed generally gets along well with other dogs, but a strong hunting instinct is normal for the breed, which is not always good for other small pets such as cats or rabbits.
Do German Shorthaired Pointers kill people?
No, Even when raised improperly, German Shorthaired Pointer will not kill a person. When they attack, it is due to them being raised and socialized improperly by the owner. The reason that they can hurt people more than most other dog breeds is the fact that they have strong jaws and have a bad reputation due to which victims are in shock.
Do German Shorthaired Pointers have locking jaws?
No, they do not have locking jaws.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers safe to keep with kids?
Generally, German Shorthaired Pointers are safe to keep with kids they have been raised with. It is important that the kids do not disturb a sleeping dog, do not snatch the dog’s food; do not poke fingers in the dog’s eyes, etc. It is best to judge their relationship slowly. Every dog is unique, as is every kid.
What should I feed my German Shorthaired Pointer?
Focus on those fresh ingredients like chicken, fish, turkey, eggs, or sweet potato. Cooked brown or white rice are great sources of healthy carbs and moisture. Avoid peas or potatoes if your GSP has a sensitive tummy. Avoid onions and garlic and never season dog food with spices as you would with your own dinner
At what age is a German Shorthaired Pointer fully grown?
German Shorthaired Pointers stop growing at around 1.5 years of age. However, they tend to thicken up until they are around 2 years old.
How long does a German Shorthaired Pointer live?
German Shorthaired Pointers can live anywhere from 12 to 15 years.
