The German Shorthaired Pointer: Canine Athlete


One of the athletes of the canine world, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile all-purpose hunting dog, with high intelligence and keen scenting power.
The GSP’s origins are a little hazy, but the source of the breed may have been the German Bird Dog, with crosses to German scent hounds and track and trail dogs. Later, English Pointers were introduced resulting in a versatile sporting dog with handsome looks, a sound temperament and an aristocratic bearing. Acceptable colors for the breed are solid liver or liver and white.
If you’re thinking of getting a German Shorthaired Pointer you should be aware that these are sporting dogs, and require daily exercise. They do however make excellent family pets, and are even-tempered, intelligent and loyal. GSP’s love being part of an active family.
The short coat does shed, but requires minimal grooming to keep it in condition.
GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER FACT FILE |
| Group: Sporting Country of origin: Germany Date of origin: 1600′s Originally bred for: Gun dog Current function: Companion Size: Large Coat length: Short Shedding: Yes Grooming requirements: Once a week Town or Country: Country Ideal home: Large house Minimum garden size: Large Exercise requirements: At least 2 hours per day Lifespan: Over 10 years |
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