The German Shorthaired Pointer

By Terri Estes

German Shorthaired Pointers are friendly, intelligent, energetic dogs. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their loving nature. They can, however, be quite protective of their people.

The breed originated in Germany (obviously) in the 17th century. Originally bred to hunt large and small game, breeders refined the breed in the 19th century by adding English Pointer blood into the blood lines to increase speed and agility.

While the breed has long been popular as a great hunting dog, they have become quite popular as family pets. This is probably because of their high intelligence and loyalty. Their handsome look doesn’t hurt either. German Shorthaired Pointers have a short, dense coat that is usually liver or brown with white markings. They have a long, well proportioned, athletic build, with a long muzzle and floppy ears. But the thing that catches you the most about their looks is their eyes. The eyes of this breed are full of intelligence and expression. This is a thinking breed. You can see the intelligence in the eyes. You can also see some humor and affection in those eyes as well.

This is a high energy, very intelligent dog, that likes to have a job. It craves mental stimulation. This dog thrives in active households and likes to be included in all family activities. This breed was bred to hunt and has a high prey drive, so smaller pets and other animals should be introduced cautiously.

If you are looking for a highly intelligent, very loyal, big, positive energy, good looking companion to share your adventures with, then the German Shorthaired Pointer may be the dog for you!