The objective of the German Shorthaired Pointer Club is to promote respnsible dog ownership.
For puppy enquiries please contact Matt Curry on 9747 3791.
About German Shorthaired Pointer
Background
This history of the German Shorthaired Pointer starts with the dogs which were used for the hunt with nets on feathered game, especially in the Mediterranean countries, and in combination with falconry. Via France, Spain and Flanders the Pointers came to the German courts. The most important distinctive feature of these dogs was their pointing performance. After the first double-barrelled gun was made (1750), a pointing dog was even more required. In full sight of the dog "game birds in flight" were shot. That was the beginning of the transition from a mere pointer to a versatile gundog. As a fundamental basis for the structure and development of the breed the "Zuchtbuch Deutsch Kurzhaar" (Studbook) has been published since 1897. It was Prince Albrecht zu Solms-Braunfeld who compiled breed characteristics, judging rules for conformation and finally also simple trial regulations for hunting dogs. Today the German Shorthaired Pointer still passes through the filter of elaborated breeding and trial regulations.
Breed Personality/Characteristics/Temperament
The German Shorthaired Pointer is very energetic, smart and willing to please. Cheerful and friendly, he likes children. Loyal and protective, he loves all family members equally, especially if they are carrying the leash, car key, gun or Frisbee. They are very people-oriented, and not happy if isolated form the family. If exercised sufficiently once or twice a day, the German Shorthaired Pointer makes a very agreeable family companion. If left to his own devices for long periods without exercise or companionship, he can become destructive and nervous. Males tend to be more outgoing and are more aggressive hunters than females. Females tend to be less dominant. Energy levels vary somewhat, as litters bred for high performance field competition may require more activity than the average Shorthair. The overall picture is that of a self-confident, purposeful hunter, capable of speed, agility and power. The German Shorthaired Pointer should be evaluated as a working gun dog.
Compatibility with other pets
If raised with other dogs and cats from puppyhood, the German Shorthaired Pointer does quite well; however, he is a hunting dog by nature. This breed likes to bark and they are reserved with strangers.
Care Requirements
As a companion, the German Shorthaired Pointer is friendly, intelligent, and eager to please. Not happy as a lapdog or flat dweller, the German Shorthaired Pointer needs space to stretch out and have a good gallop. Provided you can give him the amount of exercise he needs, he make a very appealing family pet. Friendly and affectionate, the "G.S.P.", as he is popularly known, makes a quiet, companionable and easy-going member of the household. This breed is not recommended for apartment life and does best with a large yard and an athletic family. At least a 6-foot high fence is necessary. German Shorthaired Pointers are great family dogs that need lots of human attention as well as exercise and training. We always recommend at least a basic obedience or puppy class to help socialise your puppy.
Ideal Owner/s
Exercise is of paramount importance for these tireless energetic animals. They are more than a match for even the most active family and they should not be taken on as family pets unless they can be guaranteed plenty of vigorous exercise. If under-exercised, this breed can become restless and destructive. Obedience training is recommended to make these dogs a pleasant companion.
In Conclusion
Now you know a little about the German Shorthaired Pointer and have decided this is the dog for you or you want more information, make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.
The ANKC breed standard for the German Shorthaired Pointer
