The German Shorthaired Pointer

Appearance

A dog of noble and balanced appearance . Its conformation ensures strength, endurance and speed. Its nobility is emphasized by a proud attitude, smooth outlines, a lean head, a well carried tail, a firm, shiny coat, and well-reaching, harmonious strides.

The standard colours in Australia are brown, black, and dark and light roan, which may be brown or black, as well as white with brown head markings, patches and specks.

History

In the 18th and 19th centuries, breeding and selection of dogs was to suit the changing needs of hunters in Great Britain and continental Europe. With the use of firearms in hunting, and the break up of large estates in Europe after the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars, Middle Europeans found their requirements were best served by an all-purpose gundog which could hunt, point, retrieve and follow blood scent. German Shorthaired Pointers, as we know them today are a product of various crosses between the Old Spanish Pointer, the Hanovarian Schweisshund (German Bloodhound), with infusion of English Pointers. The first GSP was registered in the German Stud Book in 1872.

German huntsmen became dissatisfied with the scenting ability of the Old German Pointer, and turned to hound crosses to improve the nose. Early GSP’s had a houndy appearance. Crosses with the English Pointer provided better speed, a better nose and a more physically attractive appearance.

The willingness to point and efficiency of water work parallel changes that came about in the evolution of the modern-day GSP. By the turn of the century, German breeders had reached their goal of producing a dog which was capable of finding, pointing, retrieving on land and water, and tracking wounded game, as well as being an excellent family companion and watch dog.

GSP’s were imported into the USA and Canada in the 1920’s and were introduced into the UK after the second World War. They were introduced into Australia in 1962.

Temperament

A firm, balanced, reliable and restrained temperament, which is neither nervous, nor shy or aggressive.

Care / Grooming

This breed needs space to have a gallop combined with training and human attention. He is not happy as a flat dweller, and requires a decent size yard, with a secure fence, together with plenty of interesting activity.

They are friendly, intelligent, and eager to please, and thus want to be part of an active family. Obedience training is recommended.

They are a short-coated breed, requiring minimal grooming. A weekly shampoo, ear clean, nail trim , and brush is all that is needed.

Health

Generally a very healthy breed, but problems cited in the literature in a minority of dogs include epilepsy, eye problems including strabismus(“crosseyes”) and ectropion, the musculo-skeletal disorders hip displasia and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and skin allergies.

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