German Shorthaired Pointer
Breed Name: German shorthaired pointer
Breed Highlights:
Also known as the Deutsch Kurzhaar and Deutscher kurzhaariger Vorstehhund, The German Shorthaired Pointer is an elegant and versatile sporting dog breed that stands out both as a loving family companion and a hunting dog. This muscular, large, beautiful-looking breed can be difficult for new pet owners to handle, but they will prove to be a lovely companion. Since the short-haired pointer has incredible hunting skills, he can retrieve and track many types of game, such as hunting fur, feathered, etc.
Size – Medium-sized dog
Weight – 25 to 32 Kg
Height – Male (58 to 64 cm), Female (53 to 59 cm)
Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
Breed Price: Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 (in India)
Breed Appearance:
Somewhat smaller than a Pointer, the German shorthaired pointer has a regal and distinctive appearance. The breed's head is beautifully sculptured, adorned with dark almond-shaped eyes that reflect a good sense of humor and intelligence.
While its deep, large nose complements its overall look. The dog's droopy, wide ears are set high and lie flat on the front of its head. However, the most notable characteristic of the German shorthaired pointer is its thick, smooth, and dense coat, which is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including livery and white, possibly with ticking, etc. His tail is usually harbored, leaving about 40% of its actual length.
History:
The GSP breed originated in the 17th century, but the breed popular today was created specifically as a versatile hunting dog in the mid to late 19th century. Its early predecessors were called German Bird Dogs or German Pointers, which resulted from breeding between Bloodhounds and Spanish Pointers. From this mixture, a breed of large hunting dog with an eager sense of smell was born.
It is believed that several tracking dogs and German hounds, as well as the Arkwright Pointer and English pointer, also led to the appearance of the breed. Hunters were looking for dogs with obedient personalities, but they also wanted beauty and style along with their smelling abilities.
Pointers were brought over from England to add style, creating a dog that performed excellently in both water and land. In 1930, the breed was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club. Today, the German shorthaired pointer its variations recognized by the AKC holds the 19th position amidst the 155 breeds.
Originally:
The GSP breed developed in the 19th century in Germany.
Breed Type - Family/guard:
German shorthaired pointers are energetic, gentle dogs that love to be around humans, especially children, although the breed may be a little rowdy for younger ones. They are a smart dog breed making them comparatively easy to train. Because of their loving nature, GSPs make well an ideal pet for dog lovers of all ages.
This is also good for dog lovers who are at home most of the day and spend plenty of time outdoors. However, appropriate owners must have relevant Pointer experience, be aware of teaching the dog, and understand how to avoid resource guarding. While GSP barks at unknowns to alert his owner, he is not usually aggressive. Unlike female GSPs, males display more vocal hunting instincts and outgoingness.
Training:
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a smart, intelligent dog that loves to excel in activities undertaken by its owners and can therefore be trained to a high level. These dogs are receptive to learning and enjoy the mental stimulation they avail from training. Due to his inborn intelligence and curiosity, it is recommended to keep the young breed in a cage to prevent any mischief.
While German Shorthaired Pointers are known for working with people, their hunting records can lead to independent thinking. Training GSPs demands consistency, kindness, and positive reinforcement methods including praise and food rewards. Tip: to keep training interesting, it is advisable to keep the sessions short and keep them on a positive note by praising their goals.
Health & Care:
German Shorthaired pointer is typically a healthy dog breed, but as with other dogs, they are inclined to certain health issues. Some of serious health conditions include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, OC, progressive retinal atrophy, skin disorders, epilepsy, etc. Like other breeds, un-spayed female shorthaired pointers can have breast cancer.
These dogs can also experience bloat. Taking preventative measures including exercise, adequate diet, regular vet inspections, being aware of these health issues, and responsible breeding practices, can help ensure the good health of your GSP. To keep GSP fit and active, owners must be prepared for lengthy, regular exercise sessions.
Living Condition:
Being a lively breed, the German shorthaired pointer dog needs ample space to explore, roam, and thrive. To simply put, home environment with a large backyard is an ideal living condition for this breed. But, with plenty of exercise, they can adapt well to living indoors as house pets. Whether it's rural settings or urban homes, GSP can easily adjust to these living environments.
Exercise:
The German shorthaired requires at least two hours of dog exercise regularly, all because of his active personality. Further, they require enough brain games, enrichment, stimulation, and training to prevent them from getting alone and bored and making up for their enjoyment, which can comprise chewing, digging, and hyperactivity. GSPS enjoys long walks, strenuous hikes, and active games of fetch, as well.
In essence, by offering enough exercise, positive training techniques, and a stimulating atmosphere, you can foster an obedient and well-adjusted German shorthaired point that is a happy soul to be around.
Grooming:
When it comes to caring for the GSP, its short coat is slightly longer beneath the tail and is quite smutty in texture. While the German shorthaired pointer is a very low-maintenance dog breed, it only requires brushing with a firm bristle brush once a week. But, bathing should be done when needed.
To alleviate the coat's shine, gently rub your dog's fur with a chamois or towel. In addition to this, pay attention to your dog's feet, especially after fieldwork or exercise. Look for any symptoms of irritation and ensure they are completely dry to prevent potential issues and discomfort. Examine your German shorthaired pointer’s ears for any indications of infections, including redness, foul odor, or tenderness.
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