| Training | |
| Sensitivity to strangers | |
| Affection for family | |
| Suitable for first-time owners | |
| Ease of grooming | |
| Energy level |
Contents
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a dog with a strong and cheerful character, it might not be fit for everybody!
The German Shorthaired Pointer, also known as Deutsch Kurzhaar, is a breed that originated in Germany and is recognized by the AKC and the FCI. It can be found in norm n° 119, group 7, section 1. It is a beautiful dog, with a majestic and elegant posture, but with a rather energetic character in general.
The German Shorthaired Pointer was born as a hunting dog and this is its quality. However, this does not mean that it cannot be an excellent life partner and a companion dog. Of course, we will always have to deal with its character, let´s say not for everyone, because it might be a bit difficult to manage if it is not trained correctly.
This breed is classified into 4 types depending on the hair:
- Kurzhaar (German Braco with short hair)
- Drahthaar (German Braco with wiry hair)
- Langhaar (German Braco with long hair)
- Stichelhaar (German Braco with rough hair)
German Shorthaired Pointer: Characteristics and Appearance
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an imposing dog that reaches quite significant dimensions: at the withers it may stand at 26 inches (66 cm), weighing around 55-66 lbs (25-30 kg). It is robust and muscular, this specimen has an elegant build and a slim body, that is very similar to the English Pointer. The short-haired specimen is allowed to exhibit the following colors:
- Light brown
- Black
- White with a brown head
Therefore, in the norm, the grey-colored German Pointer is not considered. This fur color is more common in the Weimaraner, another German breed that somehow has very similar characteristics.
German Shorthaired Pointer: Character and Temperament
As we have mentioned, the German Shorthaired Pointer is not a dog fit for everybody, precisely due to its character which may be pretty hard to manage in a home if it is not trained correctly. This is a dog whose quality is to hunt. Its temperament is very lively and energetic, and it has an incredible need to move and release its energy.
For this reason, it is not a dog that one may have in an apartment, neither a specimen that can be described as calm. The German Shorthaired Pointer needs to run, chase, move around here and there, nonstop. It is very smart and has a rather strong character, even with its owner: For this reason, it is very important that the owner behaves like a leader, it needs to be guided since it is a puppy. Otherwise, you might become its “hostage”.
This is a breed that, more than others, needs precise and vigorous training since these are dogs that may take control of the house and do whatever they want without any restriction.
German Shorthaired Pointer: Education and Care
As we have mentioned, the German Shorthaired Pointer needs a constant and coherent formation and training. It is essential that it understands what it can and what it cannot do. It must be taught what it cannot do so it is not allowed to impose its leadership. It is equally important to always follow the same conduct during its training, never be too permissive, otherwise, the entire training will be affected. The dog will be soon unmanageable.
At home, on the other hand, its character must be curbed with precise and rigorous teachings, and to always reward it punctually every time it shows it has understood discipline. This will prevent many things, like seeing the dog peeing everywhere, or that it barks for no reason, or that it is too affectionate with guests, provided that you expect it to become a guard dog.
German Shorthaired Pointer: Breeders
Specialized breeders for the German Shorthaired Pointer are found particularly in England, the US, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, Scotland, among others: the German Shorthaired Pointer is sought after in many countries.
German Shorthaired Pointer: Price, and Puppies for Sale
The price of a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy ranges from 900 to 1400 dollars, or 800-1200 English pounds. However, it is always advisable to verify that the breeding is authorized and certified to prevent unpleasant surprises.
If you search on the internet you will be able to buy a puppy, and you may find a German Shorthaired Pointer, even at a low price. But as we always advise, it is fundamental that you buy from a reliable breeder so you can be sure your puppy has been:
- Bred for good health and temperament;
- Well-selected (its parents were chosen without any genetic diseases);
- Duly socialized, so as it is not too fearful or aggressive;
- Vaccinated and well taken care of.
Besides if you adopt a puppy, a reliable breeder will give you a vet certificate, which specifies the animal has been dewormed and is completely healthy when delivered.
You may also ask for the pedigree, which is otherwise essential: it allows you to verify the dog´s purity. An animal with a pedigree has certain characteristics that belong to its breed that differentiate it from the rest.
Now that we have cleared all the most important aspects, you may go and find your new 4-legged dog, who is surely waiting for you.
