History and origin: The Pointer was first developed in northern Europe and Spain in the 16th century. This breed came into his own with the application of firearms for bird hunting, somewhere around the 18th century. The Pointer is an excellent hunter. He is famed for his classic pose of “pointing” with his nose and tail in the direction of the game that has been shot. Even young pointer pups will point when they sense a prey, a skill that is instinctive rather than learned.

Description: Pointers stand approximately 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 70 pounds. They are very high energy dogs, with a lean, muscular build and a low-maintenance short, shedding coat that needs brushing on a regular basis. Because of this short coat, they do not do well when left outside in cold climates. The color may be white with liver patches, solid black, or solid liver.

About the breed: This is an obedient, friendly, high-strung breed who is easily trained, an excellent gundog, a successful showdog, and a great house pet. Pointers are bred to have great stamina and to focus on their task with the determination of a scent hound. When they pick up a scent, they will completely ignore everything else, including you. Forget about getting them to come to you until they have completed their mission. They are not extremely bright, but they are driven. Because of their energy and their slim, muscular build, Pointers can make great jogging partners. They are usually friendly with strangers and reliable with children, although in their excitement to play they can knock small children down. They also get along quite well with other dogs.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Pointer is 1 ½ – 2 ½ cans (13.3oz) of high-quality meaty product with biscuit added in equal part or 5 cupfuls of a complete, dry dog food.

Ideal home: Pointers need to direct their energy into some task. Hunting is the most natural choice. He is best suited to use for hunting on a regular basis. These dogs certainly do not belong in an apartment in the city; they require a fenced yard and a big space for them to run around. The owner of a Pointer must be able to tolerate the dog's high-strung, task-oriented temperament. Joggers can do well with a Pointer; his trim, athletic physique makes him a perfect running companion, and the exercise will help calm him down. Do not leave a Pointer alone for too long or he can be noisy and destructive. The elderly and the disabled should avoid this breed. Children are okay, as long as playtime does not get too rough. These dogs can knock a toddler down and cause injury. Early obedience training is a must. The owner must have time available for this.

Pointers