German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer is widely considered one of the best all-around dogs.  They were bred under a very strict, almost harsh, selective process in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, almost entirely for their biddability. Early dogs selected for breeding were often chosen if they were willing to sacrifice themselves for the trainer.  In more recent years under a kinder, more compassionate process the German Shorthaired Pointer has been bred to improve stance, style and nose paving the way for an introduction into the AKC stud book in March of 1930. Then quickly earning the reputation and honor of the best all around field dog. With care and skill early breeders took the best of all the sporting dogs available to them and came away with an animal that surpasses most all others in the sporting group.  By crossing the descendants of the Old Spanish Pointer, the English Foxhound, the Schweisshunde (a German tracking hound), the Bloodhound, and the original German Bird Dog, breeders were able to give us a dog that is superior in so many areas.

The GSP is a quality versatile hunter whether it is trailing, pointing or retrieving.

Combining the best of all these sporting dogs is why the German Shorthaired Pointer is an amazing prototype that has helped many hunters have years of successful outings.  Because of its keen scenting power, webbed feet, water repellent coat and strong body the GSP is one of the most able dogs out there. The list of game it is able to assist you with is almost unbelievable. The GSP has a sporting nobility supported by his high intelligence so, whether you are hunting pheasant, quail, partridge, woodcock, grouse, duck and other waterfowl, raccoon, rabbit or possum they can do the job needed and they even trail deer!  

If the German Shorthaired Pointers’ hunting abilities are not enough, then just one look at this amazing breed will make you understand the pull it has on gun dog hunters worldwide.  This all purpose dog has well defined lines, long strong legs, a naturally clean cut coat and a sophisticated, pleasant looking face that belongs on the front cover of a magazine. The most common AKC colors and markings are liver, black, liver and white, or black and white, patched and/or ticked.  They stand from 23 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder and usually weigh an average of 55 to 70 pounds full grown.

German Shorthaired Pointers make great family dogs as well.

Also, known for their pleasant, obedient temperament and high intelligence, which makes for easy training, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a top pick for a family dog. With a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years the GSP usually keeps the same personality its whole life, not reacting to old age like some breeds.  Of course, their life expectancy depends upon the amount of activity he obtains.  The GSP is an athlete and must remain active his whole life.  

The German Shorthaired Pointer gets its reputation for being the best all-purpose dog for so many reasons.  Besides being an amazing sporting dog and hunter the German Shorthaired Pointer is also highly intelligent making him one of the easiest dog breeds to train whether for housebreaking or for chasing down your kill in the rough terrain or icy water.