Pointer

Size: Medium to Large
Other Names: English Pointer, Bird Dog
Country of Origin: United Kingdom (England)
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Sporting
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Sporting
United Kennel Club (UKC): Gun Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Gun Dogs
The Kennel Club (KC): Gun Dogs
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Gun Dogs
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Gun Dogs

Height:

Male: 22-28 inches; Female: 21-26 inches

Weight:

Male: 40-75 pounds; Female: 35-65 pounds

Color(s):

Liver, lemon, orange, or black; either solid or in combination with white

Coat:

Short, dense, close fitting, with a sheen

Description:

As his name describes, the Pointer is one of the pointing breeds, and was developed as a gun dog.  He is employed to find upland game, by finding and pointing out the location of birds.  In the past, Pointers were sometimes used in combination with a retriever.  In the late 1800s, Pointers were brought to the United States, where the breed flourished in the abundant open hunting land.

Temperament:

Pointers are even-tempered, congenial dogs, who are affectionate and loyal.  They are very good with children, although young children and a clumsy young Pointer are often not the best combination.  They have a very low aggression level, and can happily live with other dogs, and often with cats.  Although not territorial, the Pointer’s size and bark will intimidate most people that come to your door.  The Pointer is happiest living indoors as part of a family, and typically do best indoors when they are left for the day.  A well-exercised Pointer is a wonderful family member, who enjoys lounging on chairs and sofas, fulfilling his desire to feel part of the pack.

Training:

Keep sessions consistent and start bird work early.  They think in the field and do not enjoy pointless drill.

Care & Grooming:

Since the Pointer is a galloping breed, regular exercise is important for them, as it is for all sporting breeds.  A securely fenced yard is a must to keep a Pointer safe, since he is bred to hunt a good distance from his person.  Grooming the Pointer is not time-consuming; his coat is very short and needs only a quick rub with a soft brush to minimize shedding.

Shedding:

Low; the short coat needs only occasional brushing.

Health:

Pointers may develop hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and skin allergies.  They stay healthier when kept fit for field work rather than overfed as house pets.

Lifespan:

12–17 years

Litter Size:

5–8 puppies