subject: German Shorthair Pointers [print this page] The German Shorthair Pointer breed was developed in Germany from the seventeenth century by hunters who were looking for dogs that would help them in all kinds of hunting: fur or feather animals. These dogs were skilled, careful with hunted animals and comfortable with rivers and lakes. This breed is also known as Kurzhaar and emerged from the Italian Pointer and Spanish hunting dogs.
This breed was brought to the USA in the 1920s, becoming popular between hunters because of their versatility and energy. These Dogs are extremely elegant, are medium/low height, rough and tough when compared to the English Pointer.
Are very skilled when used for hunting ducks, pheasants and geese as well as hunting fur animals, playing very well its role in and out of water. Were created for, during the hunting, being close to the owner until ordered to fetch the hunted animal and bring it intact.
Personality
Besides the great role it plays as hunting dog, is also used as a companion dog, being very affectionate, obedient and intelligent. By having these characteristics and for being a medium-sized he can live in an apartment, although is not the best environment for this natural hunting dog. To circumvent this situation, owners should provide enough walks with exercise training included. It is a breed that does not like being alone, which can lead to indiscipline in the case of feeling abandoned. No doubt that they'll be 100% happy, if they are in their environment and doing what they were created for: hunting.
They have the short heir, which also helps, because you do not need much maintenance, just regular brushing to keep its natural shine. Usually the colors of a German Shorthair Pointer are brown and white.
Health
This breed has few health problems, but some dogs are prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, hermaphrodism and lymphedema. Some are minor concerns would CHD, entropion, gastric torsion, VWD, pannus, OCD.
Care should be taken with food, especially with dogs who do little exercise because they run the risk of becoming obese.
It is a really good breed to be the best partner of a hunter.
