German Shorthaired Pointer (Shorthaired)
Other names
Deutsch Kurzhaar, German Shorthaired Pointer
Origin & history
The German Shorthaired Pointer is one of the most versatile hunting dogs in the world. Its origins lie in Germany, where it was developed in the 19th century as a multifunctional hunting companion: suitable for pointing (pointing) game, retrieving, and following trails, both on land and in water.
The breed originated from crossbreeding old German hunting dogs with Spanish and English pointers. This gave the dog not only an excellent sense of smell, but also speed, endurance, and a natural partnership with the hunter.
The German Shorthaired Pointer was officially recognized in the late 19th century and became one of the most popular hunting dog breeds in Europe and North America.
Appearance & body shape
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an athletic, muscular, and elegant dog. It has a symmetrical body that exudes strength and suppleness.
The coat is short, dense, and smooth, and feels firm. The most common colors are solid brown, brown with white markings, or brown-and-white speckled. The eyes are dark and lively, and the ears are medium-sized and carried close to the head.
His stance is proud and alert, with a straight back and well-muscled legs — everything about this dog exudes stamina and a willingness to work.
Format
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Males: 62–66 cm height at the withers
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Bitches: 58–63 cm height at the withers
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Weight: 25–32 kg
Character & temperament
The German Shorthaired Pointer is intelligent, energetic, and reliable. It has a strong hunting instinct, yet is also sociable, loyal, and easily trained.
He enjoys working with his owner, learns quickly, and is sensitive to vocalizations. His high intelligence and energy make him at his best with active owners who challenge him both physically and mentally.
The Shorthair is alert, without barking excessively, and has a balanced nature. With the right guidance, it is an obedient, loyal companion that knows its place both in the field and at home.
Good with children and other pets
The German Shorthaired Pointer is friendly and tolerant of children, especially when raised in a family environment. They enjoy company and love to play, although their enthusiasm can sometimes be a bit overwhelming with young children—good supervision helps with this.
He generally gets along well with other dogs. However, his prey drive makes him less suitable for living with small pets like rabbits or birds without proper training. With consistent socialization from an early age, he can learn to respectfully interact with other animals in the home.
He feels best in a family that is active, involves him in daily activities and where he can expend his energy.
Movement & care
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a breed that needs plenty of exercise and stimulation. Long walks, running, tracking, or games of fetch are perfect for them. They excel in dog sports such as agility, gundog training, canicross, and tracking.
A Shorthair that gets enough exercise is calm and content indoors. But if it doesn't get enough, it can become restless or mischievous.
The short coat is easy to maintain—an occasional brushing is enough to remove loose hair. Check the ears regularly and pay extra attention to ticks or wounds during hunting season.
Health
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a strong and healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Possible hereditary conditions include:
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Hip dysplasia (HD)
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Eye problems such as cataract or entropion
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Bloat (gastric torsion) when eating too large meals at one time
Good nutrition, regular exercise and responsible breeding selection contribute to a long and healthy life.
Difference with similar breeds
The German Shorthaired Pointer differs from its cousin, the Wirehaired Pointer, in its smooth coat and slightly lighter build. While the Wirehaired Pointer is more robust and rugged, the Shorthaired Pointer exudes more elegance and speed.
Compared to the English Pointer, the Shorthair is more independent and versatile in work — it combines elegance with strength and a strong character.
Summary
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile, energetic, and intelligent dog that excels in cooperation and loyalty. It makes a reliable hunting companion, sports partner, and loyal family dog—provided it gets enough exercise and attention.
For active owners who love the outdoors, adventure and a dog with character, the German Shorthaired Pointer is an ideal companion: stylish, intelligent and full of zest for life.