German Shorthaired Pointer Breed description: Character & Co

What are typical character traits of the German Shorthaired Pointer?

The dog is considered to be versatile and balanced. Given you train them well and provide them with sufficient and appropriate stimulation. It is a courageous and reliable companion to hunters, that reliably and happily performs the tasks given to them. A lot of the time this agile, intelligent dog with its great sense of smell and the pronounced hunting instinct is one step ahead of their master. As they are extremely performance-oriented, they strongly strive for recognition, which they receive by achieving success in hunting. The German Shorthaired Pointer is also attractive to non-hunters because of their pleasant character and noble appearance. They perfectly adapt to the family, they meet children in a friendly manner. They act a little distant towards strangers. However, if qualities such as intelligence, versatility, courage and family friendliness are important to you and you would like to buy a German Pointer, you should remember that they are originally hunting dogs. They are the wrong choice if you are just looking for a weekend dog.

Keeping, use, special features

The four-legged friend is a hunting dog and therefore best kept by a hunter. It is a reliable companion on the hunt. They have an excellent sense of smell, retrieve well and are easy to train. Their tail is usually half-way docked when they are used as hunting dogs. However, this is not permitted in many other countries. In Northern Europe it is also used as a sledge dog.

As a family dog that is not used for hunting, it needs to be kept busy. Extensive walks outside in nature or sportive challenges, but also accompanying you while horse riding, jogging or cycling, contribute to their agility and health. An apartment is not a suitable home for them, nor is the big city. Apart from that, their attitude is uncomplicated - provided that they have a personal connection to their master and their family.