An ideal day for a German Shorthaired Pointer is morning cuddles, a vigorous run, lots of games, and then an afternoon nap with its family.

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If you enjoy vigorous outdoor activities like hiking or running, a German Shorthaired Pointer is your ideal companion. German Shorthaired Pointers are good family pets and thrive with an active family. But at the end of the day, they are happy to curl up by the fireplace on your lounge too.

German Shorthaired Pointers are highly energetic, spirited and clever. Eager to please, they are loyal to a fault and always ready for a play. Little wonder that children love them. Being people-friendly, they suffer from separation anxiety and can get destructive if left alone for long periods. They get bored easily and will find ways to jump over your six-foot fence to look for some excitement.

Fun fact: Not only are German Shorthaired Pointers one of the

best canine swimmers, they are also one of the fastest, clocking up to 72km per hour!

Be aware that German Pointers are hunters by nature and will not miss a chance to hunt down little animals. They are easy to train and crave order and structure. If you are firm, calm and confident, you can teach your German Shorthaired Pointer pretty much anything. However, they like to bark and are not for novice dog owners. A German Shorthaired Pointer will live for 12-14 years.

If your diary reads ‘jog, run, play, cycle, jog some more’, you’ll have one happy dog. One of the most energetic breeds, they need a very active lifestyle. They do not make ideal apartment dwellers, but will be happy to be your pool-buddy.

While being active with them may exhaust you, grooming a German Pointer is a piece of cake. Their smooth coat is low-maintenance. Regular brushing with a bristle brush and an occasional bath is sufficient. Rub your buddy with a toweling mitt and his gleaming coat will crack a mirror. Check their feet and ears regularly. German Pointers are average shedders.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

They are a large-sized breed weighing between 20-32kgs, with a height between 21-25cms.

Space

A yard is ideal, due to their active nature.

Energy Levels

The equivalent of a marathon runner, they just go and go and go. Daily runs and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.

Difficulty of Training

German Pointers are intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze.

Family Suitability

They make great family pets, loyal companions and excellent watchdogs.

Compatibility with other Pets

They love meeting new pets and will befriend other cats or dogs if they are socialised from a young age.

 Need for Company

They have a high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.  

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No

Coat and Grooming Needs

This breed requires moderate maintenance and has a short coat. Colours include solid liver, liver and white, liver-ticked or patches, or white- ticked, or liver roan. Brush them weekly.

Shedding

They shed moderately.

Tendency to Bark

They have a moderate tendency to bark, so expect some conversation.

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