German Shorthaired Pointers are energetic, loveable, and loyal.
They were bred to be a companion as much as they were to be a hunting dog. They adore their people and want to be a part of the family no matter what you’re doing.
Hiking, swimming, running, going to the park or store: this breed wants to do it all as long as their family is there with them.
If you’re looking for a new hunting breed, these amazing dogs could be right for you.
Perhaps you’ve been considering one, but you’re on the fence about it or have another breed in mind and just can’t decide.
In either case, we’re going to give you five reasons that you should consider getting a German Shorthaired Pointer.
5. German Shorthaired Pointers are Great Hunting Dogs
Of all the reasons, this is the most straightforward one. These dogs can be the dream for any passionate hunter.
They’re intelligent, highly trainable and versatile. They’re eager to work and please their owner.
This breed also has bounds of energy that make them excellent for any sort of field work. They won’t be happy with just a walk around the block, but if you like to hunt, they’ll work hard for you and be happier for it.
They’re natural workers and excel both on land and in water. It’s part of what makes them so versatile. They don’t give up easily no matter the task either.
As a hunting dog, they’re used for “fur and feathers.” That is, they’re used to hunt game such as rabbits, squirrels and groundhogs, as well as birds such as quail, ducks, geese and pheasant.
While most of the animals on that list are relatively small, these dogs have also been known to help hunt larger game such as deer and wild boar.
But, the versatility doesn’t stop there. Pointer is in the name, but did you know that these amazing canines are also used as retrievers?
As Pointers, they “point” out birds to the hunter with their characteristic stance.
Most of us have at least seen it in movies or on television. The dog will stop and become rigid, sometimes lowering their head to be in line with their back, and they’ll lift a front paw as they “point” in the direction of what is being hunted.
As Retrievers, they carefully pick up shot fowl or other prey and bring it back to the hunter undamaged. They are a soft-mouthed breed, so they can carry prey without damaging it.
4. German Shorthaired Pointers are Loyal
These dogs are loving and loyal. They make amazing family dogs.
They are great playmates for older children. Their curious and playful nature means they’re always up for a walk, run or play session no matter what.
They have boundless energy and will want to do everything with you and your family.
They’ll want to shadow you and other family members while you’re at home and they love to cuddle. You’ll never be lonely again with one of these canines around.
When socialised properly, they can get along with other dogs and animals as well. Though beware their prey drive. They may not be safe around small pets.
When given proper exercise, they are calm in the house and can be trained to adhere to house rules. They can make the perfect couch potato if given everything they need.
German Shorthaired Pointers also form an extremely strong bond with their humans. They’re devoted and loving.
Even if you are working them as a hunting dog, it’s important to let them in the house with you. They’re very prone to separation anxiety if left on their own.
They shouldn’t be left unattended outside for too long either since they are a “Velcro” dog and want to stay close.
If you’re looking for a canine companion that lives and breathes their people, this is the dog for you.
3. German Shorthaired Pointers Love the Outdoors
If you love nature and spending time outside, this is possibly a match made in heaven. These pointers would love to join you on your next outdoor adventure.
They’re very high energy and very trainable. With some time and patience, they can be the perfect canine to accompany you on bike rides, hikes, runs, swimming and even camping.
No matter what you’re doing outdoors, these dogs would love to do it with you.
They also take very well to swimming, and it can be one of their favourite activities if they’re encouraged to do so from a young age.
They’ll be happy to hop in the pool, lake or ocean with you. You can spend hours with them in the water having them retrieve toys.
The German Shorthaired Pointer can make any outdoor experience a memorable one.
2. German Shorthaired Pointers are a Joy to Train
This breed is every dog-training enthusiasts’ dream. Whether you’re a professional or a passionate hobbyist, these dogs are an absolute joy to work with.
As a gundog, they’re very well suited for field trials, but they perform equally as well in other dog sports such as agility and dock-jumping. No matter what you and your pointer decide to do, they’ll excel at it and be happy with the work.
Even if you’re not looking to use them in sports or trials, you can still train them to be an excellent canine companion.
This requires dedication, but is well worth the time.
They’re adaptable, willing and eager to please, so they take very well to obedience training. Training sessions can be made more fun as well by incorporating games such as fetch.
These dogs will thrive on a consistent schedule from an owner who keeps them guessing.
For example, you can start with fetch and turn it into a retrieval drill.
German Shorthaired Pointers are also great at learning tricks. So, if you like to teach your dog to do more fun and advanced things, these canines can be a good pick.
They’re adaptable and great at figuring out new tasks. It makes them a great partner.
1. German Shorthaired Pointers are for the Experienced Dog Owner
If you’re an experienced dog owner who has had medium or large hunting dogs in the past, this dog may be for you.
In temperament they are similar to the Weimaraner, English Pointer and American Foxhound.
When compared to the working line Labrador Retriever, they tend to be more gentle and affectionate, but they are more intense in nature than the common Golden Retriever.
This makes for an interesting and much different companion than what people generally think of when they think of gun and hunting dogs.
In general, they’re a pleasure to have around for the experienced working breed owner.
They also make a decent watch dog as they’re fairly vocal in nature and can be reserved towards strangers. They’ll bark and deter those that appear suspicious to them and all of that noise makes for a good deterrent.
Conclusion
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an amazing breed and a joy in the right hands.
They’re loving and affectionate with their people, but serious about their work. With some time and dedication, they can be the perfect canine companion.
If you’re willing to put in the effort, you’ll be rewarded with an absolutely amazing dog.
Do you have your own reasons to get one of these dogs? Do you already have one or are you considering it?
Come over to our social media page and tell us all about it. We can’t wait to hear from you!
FAQs
What makes the German Shorthaired Pointer a great hunting dog?
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is an exceptional hunting dog due to its intelligence, versatility, and boundless energy. Bred for both fur and feather hunting, they excel in various terrains and can retrieve on land and water. Their "soft mouth" allows them to carry prey without damaging it, and their characteristic 'pointing' stance is invaluable for bird hunting.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers good family pets?
Yes, German Shorthaired Pointers are known for their loyal and loving nature, making them excellent family dogs. They bond strongly with their human families and enjoy being involved in all activities. They do well with older children and can be trained to live peacefully with other dogs. However, their high prey drive means caution is advised around small pets.
How much exercise does a German Shorthaired Pointer need?
German Shorthaired Pointers are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercises to stay healthy and content. They thrive on activities such as hiking, running, and swimming. An adequately exercised GSP is more likely to be calm indoors and adhere to house rules.
Can German Shorthaired Pointers live in an apartment?
While German Shorthaired Pointers can adapt to various living situations, they are not typically suited for apartment living due to their size and high energy levels. They do best in homes with ample space and a secure yard where they can exercise freely.
Do German Shorthaired Pointers require a lot of training?
German Shorthaired Pointers are eager to please and highly trainable, but they do require consistent, dedicated training. They respond well to positive reinforcement and thrive on a consistent schedule. Due to their intelligence and adaptability, they are also excellent at learning tricks and participating in dog sports. For the experienced dog owner, a GSP can be a joy to train and work with.