German Longhaired Pointer Breed description: Character & Co
German Longhaired Pointer
Facts & Origin
The German Longhaired Dog is a common breed, especially in Northern Germany. It is closely related to the Münsterländer and is an excellent hunting dog. It is less suitable as a pure family dog.
The origin of the Deutsch Langhaar
About 150 years ago, old German hunting dog breeds such as the Wachtelhund, the Small Vogtländer, Münsterländer and the Deutsch Langhaar (German Longhaired Dog) were created. In their early days, these dog types all looked very similar. The different breed names crystallized later through small regional differences. In the course of time these differences have developed further. Nevertheless, all the breeds mentioned are still very similar today.
The actual Deutsch Langhaar breeding goes back to Baron von Schorlemer. In 1893 he created the basics as well as the first standards for this highly specialized hunting dog. To this day, the Schorlemer Autumn Breeding Tests are a large gathering of Longhair Pointer breeders and owners named after the founder.
The breed characteristics of the German Longhaired Dog
The German Longhaired Dog is a working dog. As a pointing dog, he is specialized in finding game and indicating it to the hunter by a certain posture. The pointing dog stands rigidly while the head points clearly in the direction of the prey. Sometimes one front leg is raised for this purpose. According to legend, this peculiarity developed by chance. Since this silent gesture was wonderfully suited for hunting, breeding was continued with these animals.
Until today the German Longhaired Dog has remained a popular hunting and retrieving dog. Although it is considered family-friendly, it should not be kept exclusively as a family dog. In Germany, the breed has been organized in the Deutsch-Langhaar-Verband since 1926. The FCI lists it under Standard No. 117, Group 7, Section 1: Continental Pointing Dogs and 1.2 Type "Spaniel".
- passionate hunting and retrieving dog
- closely related to the Wachtelhund and Münsterländer
- not suitable as a pure family dog
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | Germany |
| Life expectancy | 12 - 15 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | high |
| FCI group | Continental Pointing Dogs |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service |
| KC group | Gundog Group |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
The typical character traits of the German Longhaired Dog
The German Longhaired Dog is popular among hunters because of its balanced and calm nature. Nevertheless, you should not underestimate this dog. It wants to work and be challenged. A Deutsch Langhaar is basically a hunting dog through and through. If it cannot pursue his passion, for which it was bred, it will suffer quickly. If you are not a hunter and do not spend hours in the woods and meadows, another dog is probably better suited for you.
Otherwise, the German Longhair is considered to be extremely intelligent and capable of learning. It follows its human one hundred percent, is obedient and gentle.
- should be kept as a hunting dog
- is intelligent and loyal to a safe leader
- needs a lot of exercise and activity
- not a beginner dog and not suitable for city dwellings
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Breed-typical diseases of the German Longhaired Dog
The breed is still very original and has been spared from frequent diseases.
Breeding, acquisition and keeping of the Deutsch Langhaar
You can get a Deutsch Langhaar puppy from a breeder who is organized through the already mentioned Deutsch-Langhaar-Verband. For a healthy puppy with pedigree you have to calculate from 900 Euro purchase price. A hobby breeder sells animals without a special pedigree for as little as 700 Euros.
Instead of buying a Deutsch Langhaar, you can also adopt one. Also these dogs and similar breeds end up in the animal protection. If you are not a hunter but still like the breed, this could be the alternative for you. With a bit of luck, you might find an older animal or one with a handicap that is perfectly happy with normal walks.
Appearance and coat of the German Longhaired Pointer
Most often this dog is seen in the solid brown coloration. Occasionally white with brown or black markings can be found. Very rare but beautiful are the various grey colours (dark grey, light grey and trout grey). The coat is plain, smooth or slightly wavy and extremely weather resistant. It can be medium long or long. The ears, chest, legs and tail are clearly furnished.
The breed standard calls for a strong and muscular dog. Harmonious body shapes with clear lines and without any exaggeration are considered ideal.
- in the colours brown, brown-white or various white horses
- medium to long, firm coat
- harmonious and strong physique
Size, weight and life expectancy of the German Longhaired Dog
The German Longhair is a large dog. Males and females differ only slightly in height.
- Shoulder height males 63 to 66 cm
- shoulder height bitches 60 to 63 cm
- the weight is about 30 kg
- life expectancy 12 to 15 years
| Fur length | long |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Floppy Ear |
| Tail | short |
| Anatomy | slim, sporty |
| Size ♀ | 58 - 66 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 27 - 32 kg |
| Size ♂ | 60 - 70 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 27 - 32 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
Colors
Other large dogs
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