Origin: Germany
Origin of Name: The German Shorthaired Pointer is a medium to large sized breed of pointing dog for hunting.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Large | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
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German hunters spent generations crossing various breeds until they completed this versatile bird dog in the 1800s. They were so successful that, to date, GSPs are among the top-winning breeds in competitive hunting events. The German bird-dog tradition dates back to at least the 1700s, with master breeders experimenting with hound-pointing dog crossings in the search for a quick but powerful predator's nose and versatility. It is no surprise to learn that one of the key players in the early development of the great development of this breed was a nobleman himself, Prince Albrecht zu Solms-Braunfels.
The prince and his fellow enthusiasts succeeded in creating a do-it-all haunting dog, beyond their imagined imagination. Here, the historian of a breed rests on the credibility of GSP: “a stinging bird; A deep night trailer; A proven duck dog; A natural retriever on land or water, with pleasing deformation and great powers of markings and endurance; And an intelligent family watchdog and companion. ""
GSPs have been hunted with success at a variety of mines: gamebirds, ocum, rabbits, raccoons, and even deer. With its web legs and sleek but strong construction, GSP burns its résumé as one of the dog's best swimmers. The symbol of the breed's keen versatility was Marvin GSP of North Carolina, who achieved his 75th AKC title in late 2013.
The GSP coat is easy to prepare for most of the year, requiring a good over only once every few days with a brush or grooming gloves. Although the coat is shorter, it still sheds - especially at certain times of the year, when brushing more often will be needed to remove loose hair before ending up all over the house. Hair can become embedded in clothes and carpets and difficult to get out. A topical bath (using a gentle shampoo) may help. The ears should be regularly inspected and cleaned, and the nails trimmed.
Initial training is necessary for the German shorthanded pointer. Socialization puppy training classes with practice in basic obedience commands are important. It is an intelligent breed that learns quickly with frequent training sessions. GSPs require a purpose, and without one they can be disastrous if left to their own devices. The breed can be extremely challenging from 6 months to 3 years old. GSPs have a high energy level and a strong hunting drive, and they require an owner with an active lifestyle to guide the dog's over-excitement and intensity to a positive outlet.
GSP does best with lots of exercise and things, such as running, swimming, and dog sports — in fact, anything that will burn off their boundless energy while spending time with a human friend. Their routine should ideally involve adequate physical activity twice a day. It can be in the form of brisks, a half-hour walk in the morning and evening or safely running and playing in a dense area. GSPs are smart and athletic and engage in a wide range of canine activities that exercise the mind and body, from field events to agility, obedience and dock diving.
Feed a high quality dog food that is appropriate for the dog's age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level. A puppy under 6 months of age is required to be fed more than twice a day; After GSP reaches adulthood, one meal in the morning and evening should be sufficient. Because the breed is subject to bloat, they should not be fed immediately after running or other vigorous exercise, nor should they be allowed to walk or exercise for at least an hour after eating and drinking. There will be an ideal evening meal followed by physical activities for the day.
Although German shorthead pointers are generally healthy, there are some conditions that may breed poorly. These include hip dysplasia, eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, and some heart diseases. A responsible breeder will screen its breeding stock for conditions affecting the breed. GSP can also be affected by bloat, a life-threatening condition where the stomach suddenly worsens and often twists as well. Owners should educate themselves on what symptoms it is showing and what it should be.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: